Foreign Relations of the United States, 1948, General; the United Nations, Volume I, Part 1

501.AA/3–1648: Telegram

The Chargé in Belgium (Millard) to the Secretary of State

secret
us urgent

Brussels, March 16, 1948—1 p. m.

531. Spaak¹ being away in Paris, I at once requested appointment with de Gruben² who was only able receive me this morning owing Brussels treaty negotiations; I discussed with him Deptel 379, March 12. He said Belgium was, of course, in favor going along with US on Italy and thought Russians would certainly veto Italian application which would have favorable effect in Italy. He had also been informed our views from New York. At first glance, matter seemed involve procedural questions with which he was not familiar; he thought these should be carefully considered to make sure that what we decide will not “backfire” on us. He would consult his expert on subject. I urged him move quickly in matter and requested he get in touch with me soon as he had anything to convey.

Millard

1. Paul-Henri Spaak, Belgian Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs.
2. Baron Hervé de Gruben, Secretary-General of the Belgian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.