724.3415/3003: Telegram

The Minister in Bolivia (Feely) to the Secretary of State

29. Referring to Department’s telegram No. 8, April 6, 1 p.m. I discussed a plan of action with the Brazilian and Chilean Ministers today.

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The Chilean Minister has been instructed to delay action pending further instructions but stated that President of Bolivia had informed him on April 7th that Bolivia was open to suggestions as to the delimitation of the arbitral zone, such, for example, as to request a decision thereon from historical and geographical societies, provided military operations would not be affected in the interim.

Brazilian Minister has been instructed to explore the possibility of having Bolivia withdraw point 5 of her reply, or to consider any position for the modification thereof, the Bolivian Government being of the opinion that each belligerent should be informed officially of the other’s attitude as to the basic points of divergence.

Argentine Minister’s instructions are to request the withdrawal of the two Bolivian reservations and to explore the possibility of modifications thereon.

It was decided to take no action until the Chilean Minister has received instructions and then to endeavor to take common action.

I am of the opinion that the present negotiations will be fruitless unless all the mediating countries take identical action.

Feely