711.822/18: Telegram
The Minister in Liberia (Walton) to the Secretary of State
[Received 2:22 p.m.]
45. Clarification with respect to articles I, IX, and XIV of draft Treaty of Friendship, Commerce and Navigation acceptable to Liberian [Page 844] Government. However, request is made that article XXII be deleted on grounds that Liberia does not share reciprocal aviation benefits and that treaty be rewritten for signatures.
Reasons assigned for changed attitude are said to be that while Liberia has no aircraft, consideration should be given for the future and that authorities are confirmed in the belief treaty should contain specific provisions giving both countries equal consideration. Position seems untenable in view of Department’s willingness to conclude separate aviation agreement.
Liberia has just concluded and signed a treaty of friendship with Czechoslovakia and is negotiating one with Germany. Some months ago I was told by a high Liberian official it was the intention of the Government to pattern all treaties with other foreign governments after treaty made with the United States.
It had been mutually hoped here that treaty would have been signed so that reference could be made to same in Fourth of July addresses. In view of latest developments there is no need of expeditious action.