Foreign Relations of the United States, 1946, The Near East and Africa, Volume VII

868.00/5–1646: Telegram

The Acting Secretary of State to the Ambassador in France (Caffery)

confidential

Washington, May 16, 1946—7 p.m.

2381. Deptel 2380 May 16 to Paris, Athens 620, London 4072, Moscow 911. US decision to participate in projected Allied Mission to observe preparations for Greek plebiscite based on assumption that French will accept Greek invitation. Absence of French would allow adverse criticism and give credence to false charges that Greece being used by US and UK as element in Anglo-American bloc.

Please approach FonOff expressing strong hope of US Govt that France will be willing to cooperate in this further aid to Greek people, which can be considered a logical continuation of Amf oge task. You may wish to refer to our extreme satisfaction at atmosphere of friendliest and frankest cooperation between national groups which characterized Amfoge and our appreciation of French contribution to outcome of Mission. Matter of such importance that if Secy is still in Paris and has opportunity he may think it desirable to discuss with Bidault.¹⁰

Report French views urgently to Dept, repeating to London, Athens, Moscow.

Sent to Paris; rptd to Athens, London, Moscow.

Acheson

10. Georges Bidault, French Minister for Foreign Affairs.