394.31/2–2651: Telegram
The Ambassador in Italy (Dunn) to the Secretary of State
priority
3727. Reference Torquay telegrams 11 and 13, February 22 [23] and 26, and Deptel 3748, February 23, 7 p. m. on reduction tariff disparities.1 Approach made to FonOff this morning accordance Torquay recommendation and Department’s instructions, reftels. However Di Nola had wired FonOff his views last week and FonOff had wired its approval Friday.
Italians hold firmly to position they cannot make major general tariff reductions except in conjunction other measures European economic integration. Also reiterate preference for procedures contemplated in Pella plan.
FonOff official expressed pessimism about further liberalization trade at present moment, particularly in view German suspension of liberalization on numerous items last week, which will seriously affect Italian exports fruits and vegetables. Official believed best that could be hoped for under present conditions was to hold ground already gained in trade policy field.
Sent Department 3727 repeated priority Torquay 2, repeated info Paris 513.
- For Torquay telegram 11 to Rome, see Torquay telegram 456, February 23, p. 1353. There is no Torquay telegram 13 to Rome in the master telegram file of the United States Delegation (Lot 57 D 284, Box 139). The reference is perhaps to Torquay telegram 12 to Rome (see Torquay telegram 457, February 23, supra).↩