Document - French Diplomatic Press Bulletin - Rare Asia Minor Campaign & The Fate of Smyrna (Smyrne) - Kemal Atatürk - 1922

An exceptional and highly historical official foreign press bulletin
("Bulletin de Presse Étrangère sur les affaires helléniques") issued
by the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Bureau de la Presse).

Issue No: 30
Date: January 30, 1922
Language: French

Historical Context: This document captures a dramatic turning point of the Asia Minor Campaign, just eight months before the Catastrophe of Smyrna. It provides a rare look into the backstage of western diplomacy and the shifting alliances during the preparatory phases of the Paris Conference.

Key Content & Highlights:

The Fate of Smyrna: The bulletin explicitly analyzes the upcoming evacuation of Smyrna by the Greek forces and the geopolitical chess game between Great Britain and France, stating: "...Quand les alliés demanderont aux Grecs de quitter Smyrne... l'Angleterre obtiendra le mandat sur Smyrne" (...When the allies ask the Greeks to leave Smyrna... England will obtain the mandate over Smyrna).

The Greek Dilemma & Minorities:
Includes a detailed interview with Greek politician Michael Frangoulis (Petit Parisien) regarding the Greek mandate, the military isolation of Greece, and the critical issue of protecting Christian minorities against imminent Turkish reprisals.

The Rise of Atatürk:
Mentions Mustafa Kemal's (Atatürk) movements to abolish the administrative privileges of the Sultan and consolidate his power.

Press Sources: Contains curated reports and direct quotes from major international newspapers of the era, such as The Times, Matin, Le Figaro, and Morning Post.