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these countries into the overall defence picture, an advantage of great importance in the light of the present world situation; (b) It is the preference of Greece and Turkey themselves and would, therefore, increase their co-operativeness and facilitate their participation in military planning for the area; (c) It would insure their immediate belligerency in the event of war and thus greatly facilitate Western military operations; and (a) Greece and Turkey are already associated with N.A.T.0. for planning purposes.
6. There are, of course, objections to Greece and Turkey adhereing to the N.A.T.: (a) The conception of the North Atlantic community of countries with common cultural, religious, social and economic heritage and future does not readily lend itself to the thought of Greco-Turkish participation; (b) Most parties to the N.A.T. would probably be reluctant to see a broadening of their security commitments, the immediate benefits of which they may not perceive; (c) There would be obvious complications resulting from an enlarged membership.
7. In the light of the above it is the view of the United States Government that the disadvantages of a Mediterranean pact outweigh its advantages and that the advantages of Greek and Turkish adherence to the N. A.T. outweigh its disadvantages. The United States Government, therefore, favours the adherence of Greece and Turkey to the N. A. T.
8.
The United States Government believes that the relationship of Greece and Turkey to the N.A.T. should be discussed by the North Atlantic Council Deputies at a very early date. It hopes that the British Government will share its views that their adherence to the Treaty will be the best solution and would welcome an early indication of its views. A similar approach is being made to the French Government.
9. Despite the recent unauthorised publicity on this subject, the United States Government hopes that any public indication that it is currently under intergovern- mental discussion can be avoided.
American Embassy, London
15th May, 1951
(Intld.) W.E.G.
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