AIM OF INDEPENDENCE

Gisborne Herald, Volume LXVI, Issue 20072, 19 October 1939, Page 7

AIM OF INDEPENDENCE

SOVIET RECOGNITION BASIS OF NEGOTIATION REPLY TO ROOSEVELT (Elec. Tel. Copyright—United Tress Assn.) (Reed. Oct. 18, 2.20 p.m.) WASHINGTON, Oct. 17. M. Kalinin, President of the Supreme Court of the Soviet Union, has replied to 1 representations made by President Roosevelt to Russia concerning the Sovict-Finnish talks. President Roosevelt’s message stated: "While the United States is taking no part in the existing controversies in Europe, the President wishes to call attention to the long-standing and deep friendship Existing between the United States and Finland. Such being the case, the President expresse. the earnest hope that the Soviet will make no demands on Finland which are inconsistent with the maintenance and development of amicable and peaceful relations between the two countries and the independence of each.” M. Kalinin replied that the present negotiations between Russia and Finland are being conducted in conformity with principles recognising the state and independence of Finland. M. Kalinin intimated that contrarj to reports being disseminated by circles “not interested in European peace, the sole aims of the negotiations are the consolidation of reciprocal relations between the Soviet and Finland and the strengthening of friendly co-operation between the two countries in a cause guaranteeing the security of the Soviet and Finland.”