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

868.00/4–1946: Telegram

The Secretary of State to the Chargé in Greece (Rankin)

secret

Washington, April 19, 1946—7 p.m.

516. Prior to returning to Athens Apr 24 for consultation Greek Amb called on Under Sec Apr 18 to take leave and to deliver message from FonMin⁸⁵ expressing appreciation to me for my statement at press conference Apr 16 on question of plebiscite. Greek Amb stated that Greek Govt felt that no real progress could be made in economic rehabilitation of Greece until question of plebiscite settled. Under Sec informed Amb that while matter of timing of plebiscite was for Greek Govt to decide, this Govt considered solution of economic problems facing Greece much more important than solution of constitutional question at present time and would be deeply disappointed if Greek Govt undertook arrangements for plebiscite in near future. Under Sec informed Greek Amb that it was view of US Govt that plebiscite should not take place before spring of 1947 at earliest. Greek Amb said he would immediately cable these views to FonMin.

Byrnes

85. Dated April 17, not printed.