Foreign Relations of the United States, 1949, Council of Foreign Ministers; Germany and Austria, Volume III

740.0011EW (Peace)/9–3049: Telegram

The United States Representative at the United Nations ( Austin ) to the Acting Secretary of State

top secret

New York , September 30, 1949—11:10 p.m.

1212. Bevin saw Vishinsky for over two hours very privately this afternoon. Urgently requests avoidance leaks concerning this meeting. Will give us in morning full memorandum of conversation which we will transmit. Highlights follow.¹

Vishinsky said Stalin himself had instructed him that he must get Austrian Treaty and apparently convinced Bevin they desire treaty. His attitude much more friendly and accommodating than in meetings of four. On principal points at issue, however, Vishinsky showed little yielding. Vishinsky insisted on legitimacy their claims oil exploration areas and maintained that Austria would have good potential fields in British and American Zones. On pipeline, Vishinsky intimated possibility treaty might provide for its common use, but insisted on Russian ownership. On rolling stock Vishinsky, embarrassed and ill at ease, gave impression he knew he was wrong but was emphatic that no concession could be made. Vishinsky did indicate if foregoing principal points met, might not be difficulty on other items. Bevin did not cover full details, but mentioned such problems as refugees, military clauses, and Austrian jurisdiction, especially in relation paragraph 9. On this last item, Vishinsky indicated satisfaction could be given. Vishinsky indicated he would seek further instructions from Stalin before Thursday. Bevin, therefore, believes scheduled Thursday meeting desirable, with possible continuation diplomatic channels.²

Austin

1. The British memorandum of conversation was transmitted in Delau 309, October 1, from New York, not printed (740.00119 Council/10–149).
2. On October 1, Bevin sent a letter to Acheson, repeating and elaborating on the substance of his talk with Vyshinsky. The text of this letter was sent to Washington in Delau 314, October 7, from New York, not printed (740.00119 Control (Germany)/10–749). The original text of Bevin’s letter is in file 741.61/10–149.