CORDIAL TALKS

Waikato Times, Volume 128, Issue 21367, 11 March 1941, Page 6

CORDIAL TALKS

FRANCE AND GERMANY UNREST IN SYRIA WARNING TO VICHY (United Press Assn.— Llec. Tel. Copyright) (Received March 11, 3.15 p.m.) LONDON, March 10 The French frontier correspondent of the Times says that official circles in Vichy insist that there was no exceptional reason for Admiral Darlan’s most Recent visit to Paris. It was simply within the framework of the social activity of the Vice-Presi-dency, who intends frequently to interview the French and German authorities in the occupied zone. Admiral Darlan reported that he had a most cordial conversation with Abetz. Munich reports say it is a common secret that public opinion in Syria has created a dangerous situation and has made necessary consultations between General Weygand and Marshal Petain. They say “The Neustenachrichten, which until now has suppressed all news, confirms that the population of Syria, owing to the activities of British agents, increasingly favours Admiral Catroux and General de Gaulle. All news from Syria shows that Vichy must soon reach a decision. We think it necessary to warn Vichy to refrain from actions which would involve dangerous consequences.” THE FRENCH EMPIRE DEFENCE BY VICHY DARLAN-WEYGAND AGREEMENT INFILTRATION IN MOROCCO (United Press Assn.—Elec. Tel. Copyright) (Received March 11, 3.15 p.m.) VICHY, March 10 After an announcement of the seizure of the Ville de Majunga the Vichy news agency declared that the defence of the French African empire, on which Admiral Darlan and General Weygand have agreed, applied to communications between metropolitan France and the French Empire. According to the London Times correspondent on the French frontier the Government’s decision that French forces alone shall defend the African Empire against any aggressor means that defence against aggression is expected from the de Gaullejsts or the British but not defence against infiltration, as observable in Morocco. It is revealed that all Bank of France gold reserves, totalling a milliard dollars, were deposited at Martinique last June. The gold was conveyed by a cruiser when the Somme front was pierced and it was realised that long resistance was impossible. Fourteen thousand sacks were collected and rushed to the cruiser, which reached Martinique on June 22. GERMAN SHIP LOADING ATTEMPT TO RUN BLOCKADE (United Press Assn.—Elec. Tel. Copyright) (Received March 11, 1 p.m.) NEW YORK, March 10 A message from Belem, Brazil, states that the German steamer Norderney, of 3667 tons, began loading cargo today. It is believed the vessel will soon attempt to run the British blockade.