BERLIN-MOSCOW TALKS

Dominion, Volume 34, Issue 44, 15 November 1940, Page 7

BERLIN-MOSCOW TALKS

Possible Results APPARENT MOTIVE FOR MEETING Improving Relations (British Official Wireless.) (Received November 14, 7.5 p.m.) RUGBY, November 13. Communications made public in Berlin seem designed to create the impression that Germany is determined to hold the initiative in the conversations between Molotov and the Nazi leaders. In particular, these inspired statements make it apparent that Berlin is anxious that the exchanges should have the result of putting upon a sounder basis the relationships consequent upon the signature of the Berlin-Rome-T'okio pact, and it is declared that “it has become necessary to define positively and clearly the position of the Soviet.’

Elsewhere than in Axis countries a more modest estimate is taken of the prospects of the Berlin meetings. It is thought in London that it is probable that a communique will emerge containing reference to an agreement which, while having the appearance of a diplomatic victory for Germany, will in fact be imprecise in phrasing concerning the commitments exacted from the Soviet on German and Russian spheres of interest in the Balkans and the Near East.

It would cause no surprise if it contains also a hint at an understanding between Russia and Japan and emphasizes the determination of both parties to develop existing commercial relations between Germany and Russia.

In certain neutral countries it is recognized that there are many questions as between the tjvo countries which Berlin would wish to see adjusted at these meetings, notably those which are affecting the position of Rumania. The meetings are regarded in Washington circles as a German attempt to repair generally the deterioration in Russian-German relations.

In Turkey newspaper speculation follows the line that Germany finds herself forced to make further concessions to the Soviet in return for a promise of continued political neutrality and economic assistance.