SYSTEM OF PACTS.

Manawatu Standard, Volume LIX, Issue 116, 17 April 1939, Page 7

SYSTEM OF PACTS.

BRITISH TALKS WITH SOVIET.

(British Offieinl Wireless.) RUGBY, April 15

Added significance is given to yesterday's interview between the Russian Ambassador (M. Alaisky) and [Lord Halifax (British Foreign Alinistcr) in view of the Ministerial statements in both Houses of Parliament oil Thursday concerning tlie importance which the Government attaches to the part Russia might play in the new policy toward European peace. Arrangements have been made for the British Ambassador in Aloscow (Sir Percy Loraiuo) to see Al. Litvinoff (Soviet Foreign Alinister) to-mor-row, and it is anticipated that the possibilities of associating the Soviet Government in a system of pacts against aggression, in which London and Paris have taken the initiative, will be discussed. While the conversations between Lord Halifax and At. Alaisky were proceeding in London, Al. Bonnet (French Foreign Alinister), was in consultation with flic Russian Ambassador in Paris. POSITION OF TURKEY. Alcan while, consultations on tlie new security system are being continued between Britain and Turkey, account being taken not only of Britain’s concern in Turkey’s independence, but also of Turkey’s own weighty influnco in tlie cause of peace throughout tlie Balkans.

In view of Great Britain’s pledge to Rumania, importance is attached by the Press to the movements of M. Gafencu (Rumanian Foreign Minister), who will visit Brussels oil April 21, immediately after his visit to Berlin. It has been indicated to him that ho will lie very welcome in London if he wishes to come when he leaves Belgium. No formal invitation has hen sent, but there is much to discuss concerning the British assurance, and his visit would provide an excellent opportunity.