740.00119 Control (Germany)/10–3147: Telegram
The Ambassador in Belgium (Kirk) to the Secretary of State
1700. In recent conversations with high official Foreign Office, it was explained that very close cooperation in political fields exists between three Benelux nations. Not only is their economic solidarity being improved and increased but also their cooperation and consultation in matters of foreign policy is being augmented and extended. It was intimated that at present attention in political sphere focuses upon question concerning Germany wherein all three powers feel they have special interests and special knowledge. In particular it was stated that just as Benelux spoke with one voice at ECE Paris so they were prepared to respond similarly when and if consulted in matter affecting Germany. When I inquired if this implied desire to be accorded official opportunity to participate in CFM London meeting, response was to effect that Benelux Foreign Ministers recognized freely predominant interest four major powers in broad features any such conference, but it was their hope recognition would be given their views on problems affecting their interests. They were prepared, for example, to put forward single Benelux representative to explain their views on questions involving Ruhr or Rhine river traffic and analogous matters wherein their long experience as neighbors, customers, travellers, etc., would indicate their special competence. They would willingly appoint one Benelux representative to sit on Control Commissions feeling definite contribution would thus be made due to their understanding German mentality, psychology, commercial methods, technical terminology. As remarked rather wryly, their experiences with Germans in peace, in war and in occupation had afforded wide occasion to understand German character.
Personally, I am very favorable to Benelux representation upon such commissions and consider participation would not only increase realistic approach but would also lighten our own responsibilities both as to performance and as to personnel.
Sent Washington No. 1700, repeated The Hague by courier.