840.00/3–1648: Telegram
The Ambassador in Italy ( Dunn ) to the Secretary of State
us urgent
1155. RefDeptel 660, March 11. I had occasion to discuss with the Prime Minister1 yesterday Italy’s relationship to the Brussels Five [Page 54] Power Agreement. He said he did not think it was advisable at the present time in view of the political situation for the Italian Govt to make any commitment with regard to participation in this new alignment. He said he thought the new arrangement was excellent, particularly if it were to receive the support of the US and that he would hope eventually that Italy might become a party to it. In the absence of any qualified Parliament, however, and in view of impending elections Signor De Gasperi feels that it would not be proper for Italy to make any move toward a new group at present time.
Sent Dept 1155; London 117 and Paris 163.
- Alcide de Gasperi.↩