767.68119/8–1746: Telegram
The Ambassador in Turkey (Wilson) to the Secretary of State
[Received August 18—9:46 p.m.]
886. I had talk this morning with new Prime Minister Peker. He made favorable impression, forceful personality, knows what he wants, frank, direct in manner, at same time giving impression more imagination and subtlety than opposition critics led one to believe.
He said he was awaiting our reply on Soviet notes concerning Straits with great interest. Turkey would like nothing better than friendliest possible relations with Russia, but Russia shows no signs reciprocating this desire. He repeated what Foreign Minister had told me, namely, that while prepared discuss at international conference revision Montreux Convention with other signatories and US, Turkey obviously could not admit as basis discussion points 4 and 5 Soviet note.
Speaking internal political situation Prime Minister said he is determined, despite obstacles such as political inexperience and difficulties [Page 845] from opposition, to make definite progress on sound, stable basis towards democracy. He said there will be no turning back on this road as there was in 1930. He remarked Turkey’s political life can no longer be built around one dominating personality like Ataturk and Inonu, but henceforth must develop towards fuller participation people. He said this was conception of President Inonu himself. He said there will be squalls and perhaps even storms on way to greater political democracy but his Government is determined persist in this direction.
Regarding economic questions he professed hope achieve lower prices, saying there could be no miracles performed but he believed some progress could be made this direction. He mentioned intention his Government facilitate participation private capital in economic development. Also stressed intention remove wartime controls on business and trade.
Prime Minister said he attached great importance to increasing friendship, understanding with US. Said US playing by far outstanding international role today in maintenance peace security. He appreciates Turkey is but slightly and often unfavorably known in US and intends, as soon as can get clear from immediate pressing problems, to give attention to making Turkey better known in US.