Foreign Relations of the United States, 1947, The Near East and Africa, Volume V

867.00/6–2547: Telegram

The Secretary of State to the Embassy in Turkey

secret

Washington, June 25, 1947—noon.

370. Urtel 405 May 31.¹ Dept has told Brit Emb that appropriate War and Navy officers will be glad discuss informally plans for American aid to Turkey and anticipated future composition Turk armed forces. However we did not intend dictate to Turkey composition of armed forces and consequently would not wish to engage in any formal discussions leading to “final decisions” regarding what Turks should do. Emb indicated it thought this would be sufficient.

For your info Dept feels it necessary keep Brit informed and interested in support of Turkish forces and we propose provide them sufficient data to enable them to plan future work of their military advisers in Turkey. We will not supply any info which Turks may indicate they do not want given to Brit.

If question should be raised again you may say we think it unnecessary and undesirable that Brit Service Attaches in Turkey come to Washington for discussions.

Foregoing represents views of War and Navy as well as State.

Marshall

1. Not printed; but for substance, see Mr. Henderson’s memorandum of June 3 to Mr. Acheson, p. 188.