RUSSIA AND GERMANY

Hokitika Guardian, 28 April 1926, Page 2

RUSSIA AND GERMANY

TERMS OF TREATY

[Australia & N.Z. Cable Association.]

BERLIN, April 26. The text of the new Russo-German treaty has - been issued. It consists of four articles.

It begins by stating that both Powers will _d» everything towards maintaining peace, and that hath are convinced that tlie interests of the Russian and German people necessitate their intimate co-operation.

Article One provides, firstly, that the basis of the relations of the two Governments shall remain according to the treaty of Rapallo, and that they will remain in friendly touch in order that each shall have a full understanding on their political and economic questions. Secondly, it is provided that should one of the signatories, despite its peaceful attitude, he attacked by a third Power, or bv several Powers, then the other signatory shall remain neutral throughout the entire conflict. Thirdly, if any coalition of three Powers he formed with the object of improving an economic or financial boycott against one of tlie signatories, the other shall not- join such coalition. Fourthly, for the Kst five years before the expiry of the treaty, both parties will keep each other informed in regard to any further orientation of their respective political relations. In a covering letter to M. Krestinskv, the Soviet Ambassador, Herr Stresemanu (German Foreign Minister) emphasises that Germany’s entry to the League of Nations cannot be an obstacle to the development of friendly Russo-German relations. The German Government are determined to assist in making the idea of the peaceful settlement of international disputes a reality, but, in tlie unlikely event of any efforts, contradicting his basic idea of peace, being directed against Russia, then Germany will oppose them strongly. The principles of German policy towards tho Soviet cannot ho influenced by Germany's loyal adhorense to the obligations ensuing upon her entry to the Leilgue of Nations concerning Articles Sixteen and Seventeen of the Covenant of tlu)-4<cagu|U . on the questions of the sanctions, which are applicable to Russian only in the event of Russian warring ajgaiust another country. The question ot whether Russia is attacked can he decided only with Germany’s full agreement, so that the accusations of othoi countries would not be binding for Germany if Germany were not lierself convinced of their justification.

AY HAT IT MEANS. LONDON, April 26. The Russo-German treaty has generally taken a hack page in the papers, owing to the Budget-. There is little comment. The “Morning Post,” however, says: “It may well cause petrurbation in certain European circles, and is likely to demonstrate the powerlessness of the League as a cheek against war. Germany hopes to become a member of the League, and she; must therefore subscribe to the Covenant, clauses 16 and 17 of which provide that all the members arc hound to support each ether in eases of aggression whether by a League or a non-member State. A'et. Germany, by tho neutrality clause in the new treaty, has pledged herself, in advance to take no action against Russia. Further under the procedure a unanimous vote of the Council is necessary before action can ho taken. Germany is now bound to veto any action against Russia. It is significant that this neutrality clause was included after a demonstration at Geneva of anxiety by certain members of the League to change the unanimity vote into a simple or two-thirtLs majority.