822.01/85: Telegram
The Ambassador in Peru (Steinhardt) to the Secretary of State
[Received 4:43 p.m.]
64. Department’s telegram No. 54, October 29, 3 p.m.12 The Government of Peru which has consulted Argentina, Brazil and Chile as to recognition of the new Ecuadoran Government, is awaiting action by them. Because of the boundary dispute Peru does not wish to take independent action which can be construed as having been occasioned by the boundary question. Brazil having already acted, it is probable that if Argentina and Chile recognize, Peru will promptly do the same.
[Page 478]The Peruvian Government has purposely not consulted the United States on the subject of recognition in order not to embarrass Washington in view of its position in the boundary question.
Although disturbed moderately by reports of continued arming in Ecuador, parades with inflammatory speeches and a new military government, Peru will not seek to hinder recognition in any way and will follow the lead of the other South American countries.
The Peruvian Government is satisfied with the new Ecuadoran Government and insofar as it is able to appraise the present situation, has confidence in its probable stability. There is no evidence in Government or army circles of any intention to take any action as a result of the change of Government in Ecuador which might tend to aggravate the boundary dispute. There have been no unusual military movements or purchases of arms and munitions and virtually no newspaper comment.