740.00119 Control (Italy)/11–1146
The Italian Ambassador ( Tarchiani ) to the Secretary of State
Dear Mr. Secretary of State: I have the honor to inform you that the Italian Minister for Foreign Affairs, Signor Nenni, has had a [Page 1110] conversation yesterday with the diplomatic representatives of the four Big Powers in Rome, on the general question of the Italo-Yugoslav boundary problem and in connection with the discussions which are taking place on the subject at the C.F.M. in New York.
Signor Nenni on that occasion has suggested that the temporary postponement of the examination of the Trieste question, decided upon by the C.F.M., has been interpreted by the Italian Government as an indirect invitation to us to seek a possible ground for agreement between Italy and Yugoslavia.
In this connection the Italian Government considers that the statements made by Marshal Tito to Signor Togliatti, appear to afford a positive element towards a general discussion on the problems which the war had brought about between the two neighboring countries, in view of the reestablishment of normal relations, based on mutual trust and friendship. Under the circumstances the Italian Government is considering with keen interest the possibility of direct negotiations with Yugoslavia. However, any agreement arrived at between the two Governments should have the guarantee of the U.N.O.
It should be clearly understood that the Italian Government is ready to enter direct negotiations with Yugoslavia under the assumption that the agreement of the Big Four of July 3, 1946 and the majority decision of the Paris Conference stand firm. The Italian Government also takes good note that Marshal Tito in his proposals conveyed through Signor Togliatti has recognized the Italian character of Trieste.
The Italian Government assumes that should it be found impossible to reach a direct agreement between the two countries, the above mentioned decision of the Big Four will in any case remain an accepted fact.
I understand that my Government would be glad to know, for its guidance, if the United States Government on its part, concurs with the points made by Signor Nenni to the U.S. Representative in Rome.
Please accept [etc.].
Sincerely yours