Western (W): General (W). Political Relations between GDR and Syria

A file of correspondence and reports concerning relations between East Germany and Syria. Subjects covered in the file include the concerns of British and West German officials that Syria is to confer diplomatic recognition on East Germany; and how this would affect relations with West Germany and other Middle Eastern countries. Further correspondence discusses the signing of a cultural agreement between East Germany and Syria; and the request by West German representatives for written assurances that an East German consulate will not be established there. Further commentary discusses trading conditions between Syria and both East and West Germany; and the issuing of a communiqué by the Syrian government confirming that East Germany will not be permitted to establish a consulate and that the East German trade mission will not be permitted to assume any consular functions.