Foreign Relations of the United States, 1969–1976, Volume E–10, Documents on American Republics, 1969–1972

461. Memorandum From the President’s Assistant for National Security Affairs (Kissinger) to Secretary of State Rogers and Secretary of the Interior Morton¹ ²

Washington, April 28, 1971

SUBJECT:

• Colorado River Salinity Problem with Mexico

The President has directed that vigorous efforts be made to negotiate as expeditiously as possible a practical settlement of the Colorado River salinity problem with Mexico. The President recognizes there are difficult technical and domestic factors involved, but he wishes the U.S. position to be as forthcoming as possible. Appropriate consultations should be held with congressional representatives and the southwestern states. A report on the status of these negotiations should be submitted to the President by June 30, 1971.

Henry A. Kissinger

1. Source: National Archives, Nixon Presidential Materials, NSC Files, Box 787, Country Files, Latin America, Mexico, Vol. II, January 1, 1970–December 31, 1971. Confidential; Limdis.
2. President Nixon directed that vigorous efforts be made to negotiate as expeditiously as possible a practical settlement of the Colorado River salinity problem.