Papers relating to the foreign relations of the United States, 1931, Volume II

884.512 Consumption/41: Telegram

The Secretary of State to the Minister in Ethiopia (Southard)

[Paraphrase]

Washington, September 30, 1931—5 p.m.

22. Your mail despatch No. 776, August 1. The Department perceives no reason, from the information available, to alter its instruction in telegram 8, May 7, 4 p.m.

The plan which the American financial adviser in Ethiopia suggested in his memorandum²³ (see enclosure in your despatch No. 789, August 15²⁴) is considered by the Department to offer a reasonable basis for discussion. A plan such as this would be acceptable to the American Government on condition that suitable assurances are given by Ethiopia that Article 7 of the Klobukowsky Treaty of 1908 be continued in force, either in its present form or after amendment in agreement with the Powers interested, for a definite term of years not to be less than 10.

Stimson

23. Namely, repeal of the excise taxes by Ethiopia on condition that the powers amend article 3 of the Franco-Ethiopian treaty so as to accord Ethiopia freedom of action in customs matters.
24. Not printed.