701.6761/11–2546: Telegram
The Ambassador in Turkey (Wilson) to the Secretary of State
[Received 3:05 p.m.]
1209. New Turkish Ambassador Moscow leaves today for his post. Erkin tells me Akdur’s mission discussed at conference 2 days ago with President Inonu, Prime Minister, Foreign Minister, Akdur and Erkin. President stated instructions were simply to work for improvement relations between two countries, nothing else. He is not to take any initiative re Straits and, if Soviets raise question, he is simply to report what they say without engaging in any discussion.
Erkin said foregoing had been decided in view intimation received from Soviet Chargé d’Affaires here that Soviets expecting new Turkish Ambassador take some initiative in discussing Straits. Turkish Government see trap and are determined avoid it.