Messersmith, G.S., Vienna. Despatch No. 914 to Secretary of State [Cordell Hull], Washington.
Date
1936-09-24
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
University of Delaware Library, Museums and Press
Abstract
Description
Internal situation of Austria quiet; meeting of Little Entente states in Bratislava; economic pressure from Germany no doubt strengthened ties of Little Entente; Austrian Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, Dr. [Guido] Schmidt went to Rome, ostensibly on routine visit but primarily for purpose of determining what attitude should be taken as consequence of Bratislava meeting; Schmidt has again emphasized importance of Rome Protocols, states that they do not form a bloc, but are open to others, and mentions importance of economic cooperation of all Southeast European states; conference of Foreign Ministers of Rome Protocol states to be held in Vienna in late October; Hungarian Government not opposed to conference, but wants it held in Budapest; Italy and Austria fear pro-German influence in Budapest; economic and political objectives of Germany and Italy fundamentally opposite, in spite of apparent cooperation between them; Germany trying to stimulate discord among Southeast European states; if there is to be cooperation among them, she wants it under her guidance and domination; German Foreign Minister Baron [Konstantin] von Neurath in Budapest and will try to sabotage Vienna meeting, or delay it as long as possible; Hungary has been veering between Italy and Germany for several years, but has lately leaned more toward Germany; Southeast Europe a natural economic hinterland for Germany, who can consume more of their agricultural products which they have for export than any other country, and no durable arrangement for economic cooperation among them can be made without German participation; Austria recognizes this fact, which places her in difficult position; she does not wish to take attitude against Germany, but realizes Italian aid is only external aid upon which she can depend; situation further complicated for Austria by her vote at Geneva against admission of Abyssinian delegation to League, a vote no doubt influenced by recognition of Italy as her sole active supporter in case of aggression by Germany.
Keywords
Messersmith, George S. (George Strausser), 1883-1960.