740.00119 EW/11–1549: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Embassy in France
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4415.1 Personal for Bruce from Secy. Pls deliver fol personal message to Schuman.
[Page 317]“I would like to inform you of my conversations in Ger with Adenauer, Schumacher and their associates.2
There was much interest in our discussions in Paris. On this subject I told them that we had had full discussions and had reached a complete understanding on all points; that we believed that we had given the HICOGs sufficient authority and sufficient latitude to enable them to work out with the Ger govt solutions to present problems. I of course told them I could not give them any details. This wld be done by the HICOGs.
I also stressed the importance of cooperation by both govt and opposition in Ger with the occupying powers and pointed out that the rise of strong nationalism and opposition to occupying powers wld quickly kill the more sympathetic attitude which was developing in Western Europe and would discourage the people of US to point where they would be unwilling to contribute sums which were essential to Ger economic recovery. In other words the Ger people had two priceless assets which they should conserve and develop or which they would lose by a shortsighted policy of arousing nationalist spirit by opposing the occupation authorities.
I pointed out to Schumacher in particular importance of all Ger parties working together to arrive at united and cooperative policy. I saw in Bonn that there was friction between the parties and hope I may have contributed somewhat to a rapprochement. I believe we shld all work together to this end.
I also mentioned that we were studying the steps which could be taken to terminate the state of war indicating the problems inherent in such action. I pointed out the folly of centering attention on this juridical matter instead of on the innumerable and great acts of friendliness which had been taken. They appeared to understand.
In Berlin I found great unanimity of purpose among all the members of the govt. They stressed difficulty of their situation particularly their budget deficit which was in large measure caused by low level of production with its ensuing unemployment and lowering of governmental income. As result, they not only needed assistance on their current budget but also needed capital to rehabilitate their industries so they could eliminate source of the problem.
My reception in Ger was cordial to a marked degree and I hope I may have been of assistance in the situation.”