The Czecho - Polish Pact The agreement concluded between the Polish Government
and the provisional Czecho-Slovak Government, both at present domiciled in London, is a docuthent of both immediate and potential importance. It contains two clauses, one politically effective, the other denunciatory of the brutality and outrage being daily perpetrated by the Nazis on the territories of both temporarily conquered peoples. By the first clause Poland and Czecho-Slovakia pledge themselves to bury their ancient enmities—which were acute and deplorable—and enter, as soon as their freedom is regained, into a closer economic and political association susceptible of forming the basis of "a new order" (the term has sinister connotations) in central Europe. The nature of the association is wisely left unspecified. It will presumably involve constant staff contacts in the military field and may in the economic go as far as a customs union. In these matters the Governments of the two countries will no doubt feel their way with mingled enterprise and prudence when the time for possible action comes. Meanwhile it is emphasised that this is no exclusive arrangement ; the adhesion of neighbouring States is definitely encouraged. The Czecho- Polish agreement naturally suggests the possibility of similar, though not necessarily identical, understandings between two other Governments also at present domiciled in London, those of Holland and Belgium, and it is in fact announced that the Premiers and Foreign Ministers of each are already in contact. These are wise moves, by which the foundation of a saner Europe is beginning to be laid.
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