287. Telegram From the Embassy in Germany to the Department of State0
2508. Geneva for US Delegation. French Embassy showed us verbatim of formal conversation between Adenauer, Debre and the two Foreign Ministers on Wednesday, May 8.1 Contrary to some press speculation, question Oder-Neisse territories not discussed. Chancellor made no reference to substance Western proposals forthcoming Geneva Conference but stressed repeatedly his concern at general British attitude and conception of way in which negotiations with Russians should be handled. French Foreign Minister said that conference had been very well, “perhaps too well”, prepared by Working Group. However fact [Page 677] should be faced that there fundamental differences between British approach on one hand and French and German approach on the other. These differences consisted, first in British belief that persistent negotiation might entice Russians into acceptable agreement on conditions for European political settlement. Accordingly, British prepared offer concessions and compromises even in absence substantial evidence from Soviets they prepared negotiate realistically. Termed this state of mind dangerous for security of West which, on contrary, should be extremely firm at start and only make concessions in return for significant concessions by the other side. Second major reason for concern was British proposal for inspection zone in Central Europe. Couve said that although British had last week agreed not to press this proposal for time being, he was not reassured [1 line of source text not declassified]. Couve suggested that United States would probably have to play decisive role in maintenance Western unity. Chancellor echoed above sentiments and doubts and said he planned to speak to Secretary Herter on this subject Saturday.2 Chancellor expressed thought important make sure fullest understanding reached with US Government. Chancellor said he feared not known just how far Macmillan and Khrushchev had gone in their conversations in Moscow,3 and that Soviet pressures on British must be expected which might prove dangerous. Chancellor and Debre agreed wrong assume Summit conference inevitable and that Western powers should take cold look at results Foreign Ministers Conference before deciding on Summit.
Chancellor asked who would be chairman four power secretariat for conference. French replied that since first chairman 1955 had been British and second chairman Russian, seemed turn of American. Chancellor said this desirable [1 line of source not declassified].
In conclusion, French Embassy officer, who present at formal talks and at some subsequent conversations, appeared extremely satisfied good personal relations Chancellor and Debre. Also said Chancellor clearly pleased by prospect Secretary Herter’s visit.
- Source: Department of State, Central Files, 396.1–GE/5–859. Secret; Limit Distribution; Noforn. Repeated to London, Paris, Moscow, and Geneva.↩
- Debré and Couve de Murville made a State visit to Bonn May 7 and 8.↩
- See Document 288.↩
- See Documents 183 ff.↩