Editorial Note
Seventh Meeting of the Working Group Participating in the Washington Exploratory Talks on Security, July 28, 1948
The group continued its discussion of treaty membership, attempting to construct a rough timetable for invitation of prospective adherents. Countries considered for early inclusion were Iceland, Ireland, Norway, Denmark and Sweden, though there was some question [Page 205] as to whether the last three should be invited separately or as a bloc. Portugal was suggested as a possible addition to that list. Italy, if invited, would seem to require special timing.
The possible adherence of Spain, Western Germany and Austria was discussed in terms of political feasibility in the more distant future. An invitation to Brazil was thought likely to cause undesirable complications. Membership in the United Nations was not believed necessary for inclusion in the pact.
Discussion of Switzerland was postponed. It was suggested that Greece, Turkey and Iran be mentioned in the working paper, although not likely members, in the hope that some means would be found to insure that their security would not be compromised by non-inclusion in the proposed pact.
The memorandum covering this meeting is not printed (840.20/7–2848).