M. MOLOTOV’S TOUR

Wairarapa Times-Age, 12 June 1942, Page 3

M. MOLOTOV’S TOUR

M. Molotov, Soviet Commissar of Foreign Affairs, arrived in London on May 21. The treaty was signed on May 26. The next day M. Molotov left for the United States, where he had most useful and satisfactory talks with President Roosevelt at Washington. M. Molotov is now back in Moscow. CHURCHILL & STALIN Mr Churchill and M. Stalin .exchanged messages about the treaty. Mr Churchill’s message stated: “I am convinced that from now on the three great Powers will be able to march step by step together towards whatever is expected of them. As we have pledged ourselves to remain friends and allies for the next 20 years, I am taking this opportunity of sending you my best wishes with the conviction that victory will be ours.” M. Stalin's reply affirmed his belief in a common and complete victory. POINTS OF THE TREATY Some of the main points of the Anglo-Soviet treaty, Mr Eden explained, were: Both sides reaffirmed their determination to give one another all possible help in the war; they will not negotiate with the Hitlerite Government or any other German Government that does not clearly renounce all aggressive intentions; they will not J negotiate an armistice except by mutual consent; they agree to work together for the organisation of security and economic prosperity in Europe; they are not seeking any territorial aggression; they recognise the necessity of taking steps to render impossible any repetition of aggression by other nations in the future. If in the post-war period either country should become involved in war with Germany or any other nations associated with her, the two governments will give each other all military and other assistance in their power. The treaty will remain in force until both countries are supported by proposals for a longterm system of international security. If no such international agreement is reached, the treaty will remain in force for 20 years and thereafter until terminated by either country. NO SECRET ENGAGEMENT

Mr Eden said the terms were published in a White Paper. There were no secret engagements or commitments in the treaty whatever. The United States Government was kept fully informed of the London conversations. Britain and Russia reached a full understanding regarding the urgent task of creating a second front in Europe in 1942. M. Molotov arrived in Britain by air. The first meeting took place on May 21 and complete agreement was reached only six days later. On May 26 the treaty was signed in Mr Eden’s room at the Foreign Office. Half-an-hour later M. Molotov and his party were on their way to America. The Dominions were kept informed of the proceedings throughout the negotiations. M. Molotov reached Washington on May 29. A Washington announcement states that the United States and Russia also reached agreement on the fundamental principles of co-operation between the two countries for safeguarding peace and security after the war. They also reached a full understanding with regard to the creation of a second front in Europe.