868.51/6–1446: Telegram
The Acting Secretary of State to the Chargé in Greece (Rankin)
739. Dept disturbed by reported Greek attitude that additional financial aid can be expected regardless of Greek inertia in meeting own problems and non-use of funds available from Eximbank loan. Dept suggests Emb take up with new Greek Govt desirability of active work on most needed reconstruction projects, with suggestion that additional financial assistance likely to be affected by use made of assistance available. Services Am engineering firms probably useful such projects as restoration harbors drainage work. After specific projects selected, Am firms could expedite getting work underway and aid, if necessary, in preparing specifications for purchase equipment.
Dept understands UNRRA in consultation with Greek Govt is preparing analysis capital requirements. Dept suggests you (a) express our great interest in early completion this analysis which should be very useful to U. S. advisory mission (b) discreetly urge Greek Govt to keep study realistic and avoid substituting grandiose plans for prompt action.