611.3531/646: Telegram
The Ambassador in Argentina ( Weddell ) to the Secretary of State
[Received 3:30 p.m.]
196. Department’s 81, June 25, 1 p.m.; and my 179 of July 1, 9. p.m. Have received today a strictly confidential note from Foreign Office stating that on July 7 the necessary instructions were given to the Argentine Ambassador at Washington with a view to establishing the basis upon which the negotiations for a commercial treaty could be undertaken.
These instructions included a formula regarding exchange based on the principle suggested by the United States Government and a request for an increase in the reductions of customs duties affecting Argentine products offered by the Government. If these conditions are accepted the Argentine Government would be willing to consider a reduction of the customs duties affecting certain American products.
Note adds that United States Government has submitted a memorandum giving its views on Argentine counter-proposal and that this document is now being studied by the Foreign Office in order to give Argentine negotiators proper instructions at the earliest opportunity.
[Page 302]In conversation with Counsellor of Embassy official of Foreign Office stated that tariff reduction on Argentine products were not of primary importance implying that exchange principle was fundamental.