FRENCH ASSURANCE

Otago Daily Times, Issue 25851, 23 May 1945, Page 5

FRENCH ASSURANCE

TROOPS IN THE LEVANT STATES’ INDEPENDENCE NOT AFFECTED (Rec. 10 p.m.) PARIS, May 22. The Ministry of Information explains that the landing of French troops in the Levant was necessary to create a zone of communications for French participation in the Far East war. It in no way changed the French Government’s decision to recognise the full independence of the Syrian and Lebanese States, with which France desired to conclude a final settlement. The difficulties between France, Syria, and Lebanon are going to be watched in London with some anxiety. The Levant States, perturbed by the landing of the French forces, have broken off negotiations with the French, and a deadlock has followed. This is a part of the world in which Britain is greatly interested, and she has worked’ hard to secure a friendly settlement of the points at issue. The British position was outlined several years ago by Mr Churchill when hs gave support to negotiations to give the two States independent status and added that it was recognised that France had a special interest in the area. France, however, claimed that she had the predominant financial i interest there, and haj been endeavouring to ensure that she retains her share there.

It is officially stated that eight people were killed and 24 injured in riots in Aleppo.