(Published in Gerarchia, June 6, 1938)
By Hermann Goering
Adolf Hitler is Germany. The whole of Germany accompanies the beloved Führer with our thoughts during his trip through the beautiful country of Italy. And when the Führer and Chancellor of Great Germany will give the helping hand to the magnificent Duce of the powerful Italian Empire at the station of the Eternal City, the act will signify that Adolf Hitler presented the hearts of 75 million Germans to the House of Savoy, to the Italian people and to the Duce—the man sent by Providence. The world will also see, on that occasion, the joy of all Germans living beyond the borders of the Reich, and especially those in Italy who have found a second Fatherland. Thus the friendship of two Men, born of mutual respect and high ideals, finds its most eloquent expression in the friendship of the two peoples they lead.
The Italo-German agreement is not based on agreements concluded after lengthy parliamentary debates or majority votes of Democrats. This friendship is not based on old-fashioned paper documents. It is a living reality created by the heads of the two nations... From the sincere camaraderie of two men and the friendship of two peoples. ... A great enthusiasm surrounded the Duce when he—with frank and manly expressions which represented the feelings of his people—thanked Germany, and assured us that he would never forget the loyal and friendly attitude of the German people towards Italy during the struggle in Abyssinia. Six months later, and just some few weeks ago, it was up to us Germans to thank the Italian people for their understanding of our national interests, on the occasion of the annexation of Austria to the Reich. This gratitude was expressed by the Führer in the historic telegram he sent to the Duce, a manifestation which expressed the feelings of our whole people. ... The bonds of friendship shall remain. By the will of the two leaders who lead Italy and Germany, this arrangement will last eternally. Fascism and National Socialism will remain united not only because they have a close resemblance in outward appearance. The roots of this union are profound. Fascism and National Socialism have sprung up to fight against Bolshevik social perversion, against hatred and resentment, against demagoguery and materialistic politics. ... Led by men placed at the head of their countries by fate, led by men who have the same burning desire, the same boldness in decision making, the same wisdom in acting and thinking, as well as the incomparable authority which emanates from their personalities, these two nations have produced creative forces which were able to destroy everything that was contrary to the interests of their people.
