SOVIET REPLIES.

Auckland Star, Volume LXX, Issue 246, 18 October 1939, Page 8

SOVIET REPLIES.

AMERICAN APPROACH.

Talks With Finland Aim At

Friendly Settlement.

GUARANTEE OP SECURITY.

United Press Association.—Copyright.

(Received 12.30 p.m.)

LONDON, October 17.

In reply to the representations made by President Roosevelt urging "a peaceful settlement between Russia and Finland, M. Kalinin, President tt oo £ Su P r ? me Council of the U.SJSJt., replied that the present negotiations between Russia and Finland were being conducted in confornptity with tb© principles recognising the state of independence of J inland. i

| M. Kalinin intimated that contrary to reports being disseminated by circles "not interested in European peace" the sole aim of the negotiations is consolidation of reciprocal relations between the Soviet and Finland, and the strengthening of friendly co-operation between the two countries in the cause of guaranteeing security of the Soviet and Finland.

: President Koosevelt's message stated: While the United States is taking no part in existing controversies in Europe the President wishes to call attention to the long-standing and deep friendship existing between the United States and Finland. Such being the case the President expresses the earnest hope that the Soviet will make no demands on Finland which would be inconsistent with the maintenance and development of the amicable and peaceful relations of the two countries and the independence of each." I

The Finnish delegation has arrived back at Helsinki from Moscow and will report to the Cabinet. Optimism prevails in regard to the prospect of a friendly settlement.

The Finnish envoy, Dr. Paasikiri, upon his return from Moscow, conferred with the Finnish Foreign Office chiefs, to whom he submitted the Russian proposals, states the Helsinki correspondent of the British United Press. A Foreigri Office spokesman later announced that there was every hope of a practical solution.

I' inland is interested in a report that Norway is reinforcing the northern frontier adjoining Finland. This border is closer to Russia than is the Swedish, while the Narvik railway terminus for Swedish iron exports is vitally important to Norway. The British Navy closed this area to the Germans, while keeping it open for the British. 1