721.23/2297: Telegram
The Ambassador in Brazil (Gibson) to the Secretary of State
[Received May 17—1:10 a.m.]
85. My 84, May 16, 2 p.m.19 Meeting referred to in my 84, May 16, 2 p.m., has just terminated. Mello Franco informs me that remaining two points have been agreed upon in principle by delegates here who are telegraphing agreed changes and additions in his compromise protocol to Bogotá and Lima for approval. Point 1 as proposed by Colombia, is redrafting of beginning of article 1 to read as follows:
“Perú sincerely deplores the events which occurred beginning on September 1, 1930 [1932], and which have perturbed its relation with Colombia. The two countries et cetera.”
Point 2 is an addition to paragraph 3 of article No. 6 suggested by Mello Franco in following language:
“From this decision either of the Governments may appeal within a period of 30 days to a court of arbitration to be set up in Rio de Janeiro and composed of the President of the Supreme Court of Brazil, the Federal Judge of the First District and the Solicitor General of the Republic.”
Complete agreement is therefore contingent upon favorable decision in Lima and Bogotá. Mello Franco would value any support you feel justified in giving in conversations with Peruvian and Colombian representatives in Washington and possibly through our representatives in Bogotá and Lima. If two Governments approve these changes the political aspect of the Leticia question may be considered as settled, there will only be remaining drafting of agreements for provisional régime in frontier regions which are to form integral part of protocol. I should appreciate any views you can give me for my guidance in conversations with Colombian and Peruvian delegates.
- Not printed.↩