DEPARTMENT OF STATE Memorandum of Conversation
DATE: September 8, 1952
SUBJECT: Dr. Krekeler's Call on the Secretary
PARTICIPANTS: The Secretary Dr. Heinz L. Krekeler, German Charge d'Affaires GER - James W. Riddleberger
COPIES TO
Dr. Krekeler, at his request, saw the Secretary today following his return from Germany where he had remained for approximately one month. Dr. Krekeler had seen the Chancellor just prior to his departure from Germany and brought word that Adenauer was optimistic that the Federal Republic ratification of the Conventions would take place in October. The Chancellor was having some difficulty because of the possible effect of the Saar question on ratification but believed that certain progress had been made in finding a solution to the Saar, particularly in the political field. Dr. Krekeler was also optimistic that no difficulties would arise on ratification as a result of the opinion of the Constitutional Court which has been requested by President Heuss. He thought that consideration of this question by the entire court was a favorable development and while the members of the court were unwilling to express opinions now, he believed that decision would be favorable to the Government.
Dr. Krekeler then turned to the question of the German-Israeli settlement which was about to be signed and expressed the hope that the Secretary could make some sort of statement indicating American satisfaction with this settlement. The Secretary indicated that we could do so and asked Mr. Riddleberger to prepare a statement for issuance immediately upon notification that the agreement had been signed.
GER:JWRiddleberger:EMcG