840.20/1–549: Telegram
The Acting Secretary of State to the Embassy in Italy
21. For Amb. Dec 24 document1 of which copy has been sent you concerning exploratory talks North Atlantic security sets forth in Annex C arguments for and against inclusion Italy, position various reps, and possible alternatives. US position not yet final partially due insufficient info re wishes Ital Govt. Tarchiani has frequently indicated Italy would wish inclusion as original signatory Atlantic Pact. Understand from your reports that anything which appeared in Italy as rebuff or insufficient recognition Ital ties with West would be most unfortunate. Some other govts indicate belief Ital public opinion not currently prepared for Ital membership in either North Atlantic or Brussels Treaties.
[Page 9]While Dec 24 document as such must of course not be discussed with Italians we would appreciate your recommendations, after talking to de Gasperi, as to position this govt should adopt and seek to have other govts participating in discussions adopt. Alternatives include:
- (1)
- Ital inclusion in North Atlantic Pact alone;
- (2)
- Ital accession to Brussels Treaty on conditions mutually acceptable to Ital Govt and present parties, with simultaneous inclusion in North Atlantic Pact;
- (3)
- Italy not now being included in either, but US, UK, French, and possibly other govts issuing statement at time of conclusion of North Atlantic Pact that armed attack on Italy would be occasion for consultation under North Atlantic Pact. If Ital Govt did not wish join Pact at this time, this alternative might be accompanied by exchange carefully negotiated communications emphasizing Italy’s ties with West despite non-participation.
You may wish suggest other alternatives or variations or combinations foregoing.