Papers written by Curzon on the Near and Middle East [‎45v] (90/348)

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“As regards Thrace, it appears to ths Government of the United states on y
T'ight that that portion of Eastern Thrace which is outside the zone reserved loi
Constantinople should, with the exception of the northern part of that pi ounce,
become part of the Kingdom of Greece. This northern part is clearly nu.ganan
in population; justice and fair dealing consequently demand that the cities 01 Kiik-
Kilisse and Adrianople and the surrounding territory should be part ot Buigana.
Both on ethnic and historical grounds Bulgaria’s claim is worthy of the most serious
consideration; moreover, it would appear that Bulgaria is entitled to have its claim
to this territory favourably considered, having regard to the fact that it has been
compelled to give up territory which is purely Bulgarian as well as many thousands
of Bulgarians on its western boundary, on the rather doubtful grounds ot securing
for Serbia a strategical frontier.
“.In respect of the proposed preferential right of three great Mediterranean
Powers to furnish instructors and advisers in certain zonqs, the Washington
Government feel that before they can express an intelligent opinion on this question
they must be furnished with more information as to the reason and purpose ot such
a plan. The genuine interest of the Government of the United States in the plan
for Armenia cannot be questioned, and the Government are convinced that most
liberal treatment for that unfortunate country is both expected and demanded by
the civilised world. Armenia's boundaries therefore should be fixed in such a way
as to recognise all the legitimate claims of the Armenians, and to secure for them
unencumbered and easy access to the sea. The United States Government are not
aware of the considerations which governed the decision arrived at by the Supreme
Council, but they feel that the access to the.sea, which is indispensable to Armenian
interests, would hardly be assured by granting special rights over Lazistan.
“ Taking into consideration that Trebizond has always been the termination of
the trade route across Armenia and that M. Venizelos, speaking on behalf of the
Turks of that district, has exprassed their preference for connection with Armenia
rather than Turkey, it is hoped that the Powers will agree to grant Trebizond to
Armenia.
“ In respect of the question of Turkey relinquishing her rights to Arabia, Syria,
Palestine, Mesopotamia and the Islands, the Washington Government suggest that
the same method adopted in the case o£ Austria should now be resorted to, that is
to say, that these provinces should be placed by Turkey in the hands of the Great
Powers, for those Powers to dispose of as they may think right.
“ The Washington Government have too limited information as to the exact-
arrangement that is contemplated for Smyrna, and the reasons for deciding upon
this arrangement, to be in a position to express an opinion at present on this most
important question.
“ The Washington Government fully appreciate the many difficulties that come
up for settlement in connection with the Treaty with Turkey. Owing to the
conflicting interests involved the problems are complex and fruitful of misunder
standings, but the United States Government are confident that in handling these
problems the Powers will be animated by a spirit of fairness and of a scrupulous
regard for the interests of the vanquished, victor and neutral alike.
“ Before a comprehensive plan can be worked out it is obvious that much
remains to be done, and this Government will be glad to receive further information
in regard to the economic clauses of the Turkish Treaty. The plan that has
apparently been elaborated by the Supreme Council in connection with the
continuation of concessions granted to aliens, and also giving the right to cancel or
to revise concessions on payment of indemnity (vide 8th paragraph of your
Excellency’s note) has, incidentally, grave possibilities, and careful elucidation
would seem to be necessary.
“ In conclusion, let me say that, whatever arrangements or territorial changes
may be made in the former Ottoman Empire, the Washington Government under
stand that such arrangements or changes will in no way place the citizens or
corporations of the United States of America or of any other country in a position
less favourable than corporations or citizens of any Power which is a party to the
Turkish Treaty.”