Foreign Relations of the United States Diplomatic Papers, 1938, The American Republics, Volume V

710.H/215

The Secretary of State to the American Delegation to the Eighth International Conference of American States ⁸⁸

Washington , [undated.]

Sirs: The Eighth International Conference of American States, to which you have been designated as representatives of our country, is one of the periodic conferences of this type to be held on the Western Hemisphere since 1889, when this Government invited the American Republics to meet in Washington. Allow me to express your Government’s appreciation of the importance of the occasion and its sense of the responsibility which you have undertaken in accepting appointment to represent it at such an important gathering.

A. Introduction

I. Importance of Conference

The importance of this Conference has been considerably augmented by the events and experiences of recent years. Never before have the need and benefit of neighborly cooperation in every form of human activity been so evident as they are today. Friendship among nations calls for constructive efforts to muster the forces of humanity in order that an atmosphere of close understanding and cooperation may be cultivated. You will endeavor to be guided by the policy enunciated by President Roosevelt in his inaugural address:⁸⁹ “The policy of the good neighbor—the neighbor who resolutely respects himself and, because he does so, respects the rights of others—the neighbor who respects his obligations and respects the sanctity of his agreements in and with a world of neighbors”. You will keep in mind the conviction that the well-being of one nation depends in large measure upon the well-being of its neighbors.

II. General policy

It is an established principle of our international policy that: “Among the foreign relations of the United States as they fall into categories, the Pan American policy takes first place in our diplomacy”. The policy of the Government of the United States towards the Republics of Latin America is one of mutual beneficial cooperation and it is of paramount importance that the spirit of this policy be manifested in your attitude and action at the Conference.

The coming together of men typical of the best feeling and thought of all the Republics of the Western Hemisphere can be an important factor in the promotion of friendly international relations. Pan-Americanism has been founded upon the common ideals and a community of interest among the American Republics and it is with this in view that I desire you to give your studious attention not only to the particular subjects before the Conference, but also to promote the policy of the “Good Neighbor”.

You should endeavor, therefore, to impress upon the representatives of the other American Republics that we desire, above all, their material prosperity and their political security and that we entertain only friendly sentiments for them. You will endeavor to foster a spirit of generous cooperation and manifest a sincere interest in their respective efforts and aspirations. It should not seem opportune for the delegates of the United States to assume a role of leadership in the Conference, either in its official organization or in its discussions. Your attitude should be to favor a friendly expression of views by the delegates of the various countries and, with due regard to the specific instructions which appear hereinafter, to support only those proposals which would appear to be of common interest and which merit the unanimous approval of the American Republics.

The instructions given the delegates to the Fifth Conference and repeated in the instructions for the Sixth⁹⁰ stated as follows:

“It should be borne in mind that the function of these conferences is to deal, so far as possible, with non-controversial subjects of general interest, upon which free and full discussion may be had with the purpose and probability of arriving at agreement and cooperation. International questions which cause prolonged and even bitter and controversial debate are not infrequently, in their important aspects, of actual interest only to a small group of nations. It is believed that in this Conference the most fruitful results will be obtained if discussion is confined to those aspects of the various topics which are of interest to all the Republics.

With respect to political differences between the American Republics, it is important that you exercise great caution. You will bear in mind that the present Conference has not been called to sit in judgment on the conduct of any nation or to attempt to redress alleged wrongs. In this connection, it will be recalled that academic discussion has been carried on at certain previous conferences which led to no practical results, but which tended to create an atmosphere not entirely harmonious.

The United States has always maintained the view that the competency of these conferences does not extend to the assumption of the responsibilities of an arbitral board. It has been the policy of the United States to lend its good offices to the settlement of conflicts between sister-Republics, but to refrain from any effort to have these conferences take cognizance of any existing controversy with a view to its settlement, unless the good offices of that body are invoked by both the opposing parties.

B. Convocation of Conference

The Seventh International Conference of American States at Montevideo in 1933 designated Lima as the seat of the Eighth Conference.⁹¹ The Governing Board of the Pan American Union adopted regulations for the Conference at its meeting on March 9, 1938, copies of which appear in the Handbook for the Use of Delegates, pages 5–10, inclusive.

The program of the Conference was formulated by the Governing Board in accordance with the accepted practice. It consists of (1) subjects which were recommended by the Seventh International Conference of American States and the Inter-American Conference for the Maintenance of Peace; (2) subjects pending from previous conferences; (3) subjects relating to special technical conferences, and (4) topics which have been suggested by various member governments. This program has the unanimous approval of the governments of the twenty-one American Republics. The following is the program for the Conference:

Chapter I

Organization of Peace

1. Perfecting and coordination of inter-American peace instruments. (Including topics on investigation, conciliation and arbitration, and the Code of Peace; definition of the aggressor, sanctions, and the strengthening of means for the prevention of war.)

2. Creation of an Inter-American Court of International Justice.

3. Creation of a League or Association of American Nations.

4. Declaration with respect to the American doctrine of the non-recognition of territory acquired by force, embodying the declaration made at the Second [First]⁹² and Sixth International Conferences of American States,⁹³ the Inter-American Conference for the Maintenance of Peace,⁹⁴ and in the Declaration signed at Washington on August 3, 1932.⁹⁵

Chapter II

International Law

5. Consideration of rules relative to the codification of international law in America.

6. Consideration of reports and projects formulated by the Committee of Experts on the Codification of International Law, on the following subjects:

(a) Pecuniary Claims.

(b) Nationality.

(c) Immunity of Government Vessels.

7. Nationality of Juristic Persons.

8. Uniformity and perfection of the methods of drafting multilateral treaties, including the form of the instruments, adherence, accession, deposit of ratifications, etc., and means to facilitate ratifications.

9. Principles relative to the recognition of belligerency.

Chapter III

Economic Problems

10. Inter-American commercial policy.

(a) Elimination of restrictions and limitations on international trade.

(b) Application of the most-favored-nation clause.

11. Creation of an Inter-American Institute of Economics and Finance.

12. Inter-American communication facilities.

(a) Continental and insular maritime communications and port facilities.

(b) The Pan American Highway.⁹⁶

(c) Other measures.

13. Appointment of a commission of jurists to study and formulate a plan to bring about uniformity of commercial law and, as far as it may be possible, of civil law.

14. Immigration.

15. Consideration of the status of the Indian and rural populations, and the adoption of labor regulations.

Chapter IV

Political and Civil Rights of Women

16. Report of the Inter-American Commission of Women.

Chapter V

Intellectual Cooperation and Moral Disarmament

17. Means of promoting inter-American intellectual and technical cooperation, and the spirit of moral disarmament.

18. Consideration of the project of convention on intellectual property drafted by the Inter-American Commission on Intellectual Property of Montevideo.

19. Conservation and preservation of natural regions and historic sites.

Chapter VI

The Pan American Union and the International Conferences of American States

20. Functions of the Pan American Union and cooperation of the Union and the International Conferences of American States with other international entities.

21. Future International Conferences of American States.

Chapter VII

Reports

22. Consideration of the report on the status of treaties and conventions signed at previous conferences.

23. Consideration of the results of inter-American conferences held since the Seventh International Conference of American States.

For your convenience the following instructions have been arranged, although developments and circumstances during the Conference may necessitate a modification of these instructions.

Chapter I

Organization of Peace

Topic 1. “Perfecting and coordination of inter-American peace instruments. (Including topics on investigation, conciliation and arbitration, and the Code of Peace; definition of the aggressor, sanctions, and the strengthening of means for the prevention of war.)”

It is thought that the main topic as well as the sub-topics, except the Code of Peace, the definition of the aggressor and sanctions, which have been dealt with in separate instructions and memoranda, can be covered by proposing a comprehensive consolidated draft of a treaty covering the important features of the various inter-American peace agreements, which appear to comprehend adequate and useful means for the prevention of war and the pacific solution of conflicts or disputes which have thus far been proposed.

A draft on Consolidation of American Peace Agreements has been prepared, copies of which are in the files of the delegation,⁹⁷ as well as an explanatory memorandum. This draft has been transmitted to the Governments for their information and suggestions. It is probable that other draft projects will be presented on this subject and you will use your discretion about presenting this draft to the conference. (See Handbook, pp. 11–14).

The Code of Peace

The Peace Code is a project presented by the Mexican delegation to the Montevideo Conference of 1933⁹⁸ as later revised and presented to the Buenos Aires Conference in 1936. A memorandum on this subject is in the files of the delegation. Since as appears from the memorandum the project in question is inacceptable to the United States in several important particulars you should refrain from supporting the project in the event that it is presented to the Lima Conference in its present form. (See Handbook, pp. 14–15).

Definition of the Aggressor

A memorandum on this subject is in the files of the delegation. This memorandum sets forth the great difficulties which exist in framing an acceptable definition, as is evidenced by various failures to reach an agreement thereon.

If the entrance into such an agreement is to involve the loss by the Contracting Parties of their character as neutrals in the event of a war, and is to require the employment of some kind and degree of force or sanctions as against the power deemed to be an aggressor, it is apparent that the subject under consideration is one of great importance which demands the most careful consideration before any commitment regarding it is undertaken by the United States. There naturally will arise the question as to how and by whom the aggressor is to be determined. It is not believed that the United States would desire to surrender its freedom of judgment or of action in these matters. Consultation in the event of war or threat of war is already provided for by Articles I and II of the Convention for the Maintenance, Preservation and Reestablishment of Peace,⁹⁹ by Article 1 of the Additional Protocol Relative to Non-Intervention,¹ and by Article 2 of the Convention to Coordinate, Extend and Assure the Fulfillment of the Existing Treaties between the American States.²

If serious consideration is given this subject, it is believed that the delegates should give careful study to the President’s proposal of May 16, 1933,³ and to the definition of an aggressor brought forward by the Honorable Norman H. Davis on May 22, 1933,⁴ both of which are set forth on page 17 of the memorandum on this general subject. (See Handbook, pp. 15–17).

Sanctions

A memorandum on the subject is in the files of the delegation. You will observe therefrom that the efforts made by the League of Nations to apply the sanctions provided for in its Covenant were unsuccessful in result and that the League apparently has discarded the use of sanctions.

As set forth in the memorandum, present agreements between the American States, such as the Saavedra Lamas treaty of 1933,⁵ the Convention of 1933 on the Rights and Duties of States,⁶ and the Convention for the Coordination, Existence [Extension], and Fulfillment of Existing Treaties between the American States,⁷ contemplate the possible use in given situations of mild measures of sanctions.

In view of the League’s experience and of the conflicting interests involved, it is believed that the time is not ripe for the employment of strong sanctions and that an effort to employ them might create greater evils than it would correct.

Accordingly, you will indicate that this Government cannot favor projects which may have for their purpose the strengthening of present provisions in agreements between the American States relative to the employment of sanctions, and you will abstain from voting on any such project which shall be presented to the conference. (See Handbook, pp. 15–17).

Topic 2. “Creation of an Inter-American Court of International Justice.”

A memorandum on this subject is in the files of the delegation. There also is a report of the Governing Board of the Pan American Union, which was prepared in accordance with the Resolution of the Buenos Aires Conference of 1936. That report states that the desirability and expediency of creating an Inter-American Court of Justice is a question of policy which the Governing Board was not in a position to decide.

You may state the position, in discussing this matter with other delegates, that in view of public opinion in the United States as manifested by the successful contest waged in this country against membership by the United States in the Permanent Court of International Justice at The Hague,⁸ it would be impracticable to attempt to bring the United States into an Inter-American Court of Justice. You may add that, if any of the other American Republics wish to create such a court, the United States would regard the move with friendly interest but could not participate in its establishment. If deemed advisable, you may take this attitude at committee meetings and in plenary sessions of the conference. Accordingly, you will abstain from voting on any proposal for the constitution of a court and sign no agreement to that end which might be adopted by the conference.

Topic 3. “Creation of a League or Association of American Nations.”

A Project of Treaty on the Association of American Nations has been prepared by the Governments of Colombia and the Dominican Republic in accordance with Resolution 10 of the Inter-American Conference for the Maintenance of Peace at Buenos Aires. This project is printed on pages 20–24 of the Handbook for the Use of Delegates. This has some features similar to the Code of Peace and it contains provisions relating to the aggressor and to the application of sanctions. Instructions and comments on those topics apply equally to this draft project. There is in the files of the delegation a memorandum on this subject.

The draft project provides for the following agencies of the Association: (1) Pan American Congress meeting annually and endowed with political powers; (2) a permanent secretariat, probably distinct from the Pan American Union, and (3) organizations which the Association might establish. The draft treaty provides for the determination of an aggressor, the application of sanctions, close cooperation with the League of Nations, and the denouncement of all international agreements which have already been concluded that may be incompatible with the treaty.

This Government is heartily in favor of taking all practical steps for the maintenance of peace. It is believed that the American nations have made substantial progress in perfecting an effective plan for the maintenance of peace, and that these Treaties, especially the Inter-American Treaties signed at Buenos Aires in 1936, constitute a solid and satisfactory foundation for a desirable inter-American relationship. It would seem that the most desirable procedure would be to modify or supplement these various agreements as experience demonstrates such amendment or implementation to be necessary.

The kind of inter-American relationship which would result from the proposed draft treaty is of a much different scope both practically and juridically than that provided for by the existing treaties and peace machinery. This Government is of the opinion that a proposal which contemplates such a far-reaching change in inter-American relations should receive over a protracted period the most thoroughgoing scrutiny by all the American governments before the wisdom of the essential character of the proposal could be determined. So far as this Government is concerned many of the provisions could not be reconciled or coordinated with our existing statutes and it is believed that the same is true with regard to a number of the other countries.

If you should consider it necessary and desirable to state the position of this Government, you may indicate frankly, without in any way attempting to influence the opinions of the other delegations, that the United States can not become a party to such a treaty since many of its provisions are in conflict with existing United States policy and legislation. (See Handbook, pp. 20–28).

Topic 4. “Declaration with respect to the American doctrine of the nonrecognition of territory acquired by force, embodying the declarations made at the Second [First] and Sixth International Conferences of American States, the Inter-American Conference for the Maintenance of Peace, and in the Declaration signed at Washington on August 3, 1932.”

This topic relates to a proposed declaration by the conference with respect to the American doctrine of the non-recognition of territory acquired by force embodying the declarations made at the First and Sixth International Conferences of American States, and the Inter-American Conference for the Maintenance of Peace, and the Declaration signed at Washington, August 3, 1932. This doctrine is also set forth in Article II of the so-called Saavedra Lamas treaty signed at Rio de Janeiro, October 10, 1933.

A memorandum on the subject of the proposed declaration is in the files of the delegation. It contains the previous declarations above mentioned and a proposed declaration for the consideration of the Lima Conference.

The adoption by the conference of a declaration along the lines proposed in the memorandum might be useful as embodying in one document the views set forth in previous declarations of the American States, thus conducing to convenience and coordination. Should a majority of the delegations favor such a declaration you should support it. (See Handbook, pp. 28–31).

Chapter II

International Law

Topic 5. “Consideration of Rules relative to the codification of international law in America.”

There is no international law on the subject of codification, nor is there such a thing as international law “in America” as distinguished from general international law. Codification is a process by which the rules of international law, public or private, are reduced to code form by agreement among the states. The method of codification is therefore a matter to be determined by agreement between the states.

There is in the files of the delegation a memorandum dated October 1, 1938, which indicates that the process or method agreed upon by the American Republics for the codification of international law has repeatedly been amended by them, until it is now difficult, if not impossible, to determine precisely the procedure to be followed. The Commission of Experts, meeting in Washington in April 1937, resolved to call to the attention of the respective National Commissions the desirability of concluding a convention “which will reintegrate, after revision, all the organic provisions in the matter contained at present in the various resolutions on the subject”.

You may transmit to the Conference the attached draft of a Convention on the Codification of International Law.⁹ By the terms of this draft the process of codification may be regularized, simplified, and expedited. It is possible that other drafts will be presented to the Conference for consideration.

The draft which has been prepared in the Department eliminates the Commission of Jurists and three Permanent Committees but leaves the National Committees, through the respective governments, and the Commission of Experts to carry on the initiation of draft projects for the subsequent consideration of the governments and the successive regular International Conferences of American States. This fundamental change in the procedure is in the interest of simplicity, and of expedition in the selection of subjects susceptible of codification and the preparation of bases of discussion or draft conventions on the basis of the views submitted by the respective states. By implementing the process of codification with unnecessary and cumbersome machinery, as is done in the existing resolutions, we make it almost impossible for the work of codification to progress.

While, as indicated above, the draft convention eliminates the Commission of Jurists and, as a practical matter, substitutes for that body the Commission of Experts (a much smaller group), if it is found at the Conference that the other countries desire to retain the Commission of Jurists and to eliminate the Commission of Experts, it is not believed that the American delegation need strongly oppose such a change. It should be pointed out, however, that if this change is made the United States representation will be at the ratio of 1 to 20 on the Commission of Jurists whereas on the Commission of Experts it is now at the ratio of 1 to 6. (See Handbook, pp. 32–39.)

Topic 6. “Consideration of reports and projects formulated by the Committee of Experts on the Codification of International Law, on the following subjects:

(a) Pecuniary Claims.

(b) Nationality.

(c) Immunity of Government Vessels.”

The Committee of Experts is meeting in Lima about two weeks before the opening of the Eighth Conference and hence its reports and projects are not yet available. It is believed that projects may be submitted by the Committee to the Lima Conference, most of which may require mature consideration before they can be approved. Consequently, many delegations may desire to have them referred to their governments for study and you should adopt a similar position. It is deemed desirable by this Government that projects on such important subjects be made available well in advance of a conference so that they may be given adequate consideration.

Topic 7. “Nationality of Juristic Persons.”

As to corporations, the Government of the United States, for the reasons stated in the memorandum on this subject which is in the files of the delegation, could subscribe to an international code containing a statement to the effect that the nationality of a corporation is that of the state in which it is organized.

There is no uniform law in the United States as concerns ordinary partnerships and joint stock companies, since their status is determined by the laws of the various states in which they are organized, and these laws are far from being uniform. Furthermore, the concept of ordinary partnerships and joint stock companies in the laws of the United States, where common law predominates, differs materially from the concept of such organizations in the other American republics, where civil law governs. In the United States such organizations are not regarded as being juristic persons having citizenship separate and distinct from that of their members, but the opposite seems to be true with regard to corresponding organizations in the other American republics. In other words, the same facts which persuaded the Government of the United States that it could not subscribe to the code of private international law adopted at the Sixth International Conference of American States at Habana, Cuba, in 1928, commonly known as the Bustamente Code, would seem to be applicable to any code concerning the status of ordinary partnerships and joint stock companies, unless it is limited as hereinafter suggested.

If it is made clear in the proposed convention on juristic persons that it is to be applicable only in international relationships, and is not designed to change the legal status of partnerships or other organizations within the several states parties to the convention, this Government would be able to subscribe to the convention, especially in view of the fact that it now practically treats joint stock companies and partnerships in connection with diplomatic protection and claims as entities having American nationality. (See Memorandum in Relation to Evidence Necessary to Establish the American Nationality of Corporations, Joint Stock Companies and Partnerships, a copy of which is annexed to the Memorandum herewith.¹⁰)

It is important for the American delegation to avoid agreeing to any convention on the nationality of Juristic Persons which could be construed to mean that this Government could not extend diplomatic protection to the interests of its nationals in foreign corporations. (See Handbook, pp. 47–53.)

Topic 8. “Uniformity and perfection of the methods of drafting multilateral treaties, including the form of the instruments, adherence, accession, deposit of ratifications, etc., and means to facilitate ratifications.”

Your attention is especially called to the Special Handbook for the Use of Delegates, pages 53 to 62. The resolution in regard to the functions of the Pan American Union as a depositary of ratifications of multilateral treaties, as well as the resolutions having the purpose of expediting ratifications by the Governments, will be of especial interest to the delegates. There is in the files of the delegation a memorandum on this subject.

Uniformity and Perfection of the Methods of Drafting Multilateral Treaties are discussed in a report dated September 15, 1938, prepared by the Permanent Committee of Rio de Janeiro on the Codification of Public International Law. Among other things the report points out that the organs for the conclusion of treaties are foreign offices negotiating directly with each other and with international conferences or congresses at which States are represented by plenipotentiary delegates. The Eighth International Conference of American States is a conference of the kind mentioned.

The Permanent Committee on Codification states in its report that it does not seem to be possible to generalize the practice of the Conferences of the International Labor Organization and in this point of view this Government agrees. The report recommends the adoption of a standard form of multilateral treaties based on the “academic (didáctico)” approach and maintains that the procedure with reference to adherence, accession and deposit of ratifications now expressed in treaties of the American Conferences is satisfactory. While the Department is not prepared to say that the present practices are perfect it is not making any recommendations for specific changes in them.

The Committee replies in the negative to the question whether multilateral treaties should contain clauses providing for the acceleration of ratification. The Department agrees with the position of the Permanent Committee that the exchange of copies of laws and regulations enacted to put multilateral treaties into active operation should be provided for. It also agrees that the use of “the discreet and friendly offices of diplomacy”, as suggested by the Committee is the only appropriate method to employ to expedite the ratification of treaties which have been signed.

Topic 9. “Principles relative to the recognition of belligerency.”

It is believed that the subject of the “Principles Relative to the Recognition of Belligerency” is so broad in scope and so technical in its nature as to require considerable preparatory work prior to the conclusion of any conventional agreement on the subject.

The United States is of the view that this subject cannot adequately be dealt with at the Lima Conference; that it requires greater consideration in view of its importance than the Conference could possibly give to it. It is doubted, moreover, whether it is a proper subject to be referred to the entities to be established for the purpose of codification. The subject is a delicate one, and the question of the recognition of belligerency is not controlled in the first instance by international law. Each state must decide for itself whether, taking into consideration its own interests, as well as many other factors—including its proximity to the scene of civil strife the effect of the conflict upon its trade and commerce, its nationals, its relations with the central government, the character of the revolt, and the purposes and policies of the revolutionists—recognition of belligerency should be extended. It is not perceived how the subject could be covered by a code except in most general terms which, if the governments are to be allowed the freedom of action they now have and are entitled to have, would not constitute an improvement upon the situation that now obtains.

If, nevertheless, it should be decided at the forthcoming Conference that this subject should be “submitted to the consideration of those entities which have been or that may be created for the codification of international law”, and the reference of the subject to those entities should take the form of a Resolution, care should be taken that the Resolution shall contain express provisions that the process of codification to be followed shall be identical with the general process of codification to be followed with respect to other subjects. The convention on Codification will doubtless prescribe a method for selecting the subjects to be codified. This subject might be designated as one of the first subjects to be taken under consideration. Such a provision would avoid the irregular procedure envisioned by the Buenos Aires Resolutions which referred certain topics to the Committee of Experts for reports to the next Inter-American Conference, without providing that the regular process of codification should be followed in relation to the subjects so referred and without providing that the Governments should in anywise be consulted by the Committee of Experts. A repetition of this procedure should be avoided.

Chapter III

Economic Problems

Topic 10. Inter-American Commercial Policy

(a) Elimination of restrictions and limitations on international trade

(b) Application of the most-favored-nation clause

The American Delegation has during the past several meetings of American States taken considerable leadership in bringing before these States the decisive economic and political reasons for bringing about a general lowering of trade restrictions and establishing an enlarged international trade firmly on a basis of general benefit and equality.

The Delegation will do its utmost to carry forward this policy at Lima. A resolution setting forth the main principles of policy on both topics (a) and (b) has been prepared, and will be introduced into the Conference. This must be preceded by careful prior consultation between the American Delegation and other Delegations in order to ascertain their views as to the detailed terms and phrases of the resolution, and possible modification of the present text may be considered in the light of these consultations.

Topic 11. Creation of an Inter-American Institute of Economics and Finance.

As the special handbook for the use of delegates, prepared by the Pan American Union, points out (pp. 81–83), a numerous variety of proposals in one way or another suggesting the creation of inter-American organizations of economic and financial cooperation may come before the Conference, partly as legacy from the proposals brought forward at the Seventh International Conference and left in an indefinite state. Such proposals have ordinarily been of both an ambitious and vague character, difficult to visualize as the agencies for any immediately feasible work in the economic and financial field; towards other proposals of similar character that may come forward, experience seems to indicate the necessity that the American Delegation retain a position of reserve.

Considerable thought has been given as to the usefulness in putting before the Conference a resolution designed to bring about periodic informal meetings of representatives of Treasuries. It is thought that such meetings might serve as the occasion for the exchange of experience and information and to foster general mutual knowledge of the situation of individual countries and also to indicate gradually the possibilities of more extended cooperation in this field. A short resolution has been prepared on this matter and may be introduced into the Conference.

In the event it is decided to go forward with this resolution, it would be appropriate to consult the Chilean Delegation before action is taken, since at the Montevideo Conference it was agreed that the next inter-American Financial Conference should take place in Chile.

Thought is also being given to the wisdom of introducing another resolution designed to provide preliminary steps towards regularizing and developing consultation in commerce and other economic fields. There is no permanent intergovernmental machinery among the American Republics at the present time with this duty. The text of a possible resolution on this matter is being considered.

Topic 12 (a). Continental and Insular Maritime Communications and Port Facilities.

This Government was requested by the Pan American Union to prepare projects on these subjects. Resolutions and recommendations were formulated and presented for distribution to the other Governments. The resolutions submitted deal with the subjects of tourist travel and maritime communications. The recommendations concern shipping statistics and the interchange of maritime information.

The development of a greater tourist travel is a subject which is of prime importance at the present time to American shipping interests, particularly the United States Maritime Commission. The Department is also interested in this subject as a part of its policy to develop friendly relations with the other American Republics.

While some results have been obtained by the actions of past conferences, there remains much to be done by many countries along the line of reducing or eliminating requirements which act as a barrier to tourist travel. It is not contemplated that each country should open its doors to tourists without restriction but only to ask that every document or other requirement which can reasonably be eliminated be stricken from the regulations or waived for tourists. The various handicaps to the development of tourist travel are dealt with in memoranda prepared in the Maritime Commission, copies of which are available in the files of the Delegation.

The subject of tourist travel under this topic should be considered in connection with Topic 14, Immigration.

The subjects of maritime communications, shipping statistics and the interchange of maritime information are dealt with in a memorandum on Topic 12 (a) which is contained in the files of the Delegation. Strictly from the point of view of American shipping, these matters are important in view of recent improvements and contemplated future improvements in the various shipping services maintained, most of them with Government aid, to the other American Republics.

There is in the files of the Delegation material dealing with the Brazilian Freight Rate Law of 1937 and material on the subject of the alleged proprietary rights of national shipping to national trade, which are included as of possible interest to the Delegation in the event of any discussion of these subjects. (See Handbook, pp. 83–86.)

(b) Pan American Highway.

This Government has taken an active interest in the project for the construction of a highway to connect all of the American Republics. Information on the highway and on the activities of this Government in connection therewith will be found in the following documents in the files of the Delegation: 1, the text of an article on the Pan American Highway which appeared in Foreign Affairs for July 1938; 2, a statement on the status of construction; and, 3, a mimeographed memorandum reviewing the activities of the Government of the United States and various international conferences with regard to the highway. These documents contain detailed information on the actual assistance which has been extended by this Government. This Government also is cooperating with the other American Republics under the terms of the Convention on the Pan American Highway signed at Buenos Aires on December 23, 1936.¹¹

The Financial Committee appointed in accordance with the provisions of this Convention has prepared a report which has been submitted to the governments members of the Pan American Union which you are authorized to approve if submitted to the Conference.

In addition to this report the Financial Committee may present suggestions designed to create a mechanism for the financing of the construction of the highway through the issuance of bonds and for the maintenance and operation of the highway from certain sources of revenue specified in the protocol. The Department should be consulted regarding any specific proposal before any commitments are made by the Delegation.

At the request of the Pan American Union this Government has submitted for consideration at the Conference a resolution urging the member governments to ratify the Convention on the Pan American Highway signed at Buenos Aires in 1936 and to construct the sections of the highway in their respective territories. The other resolution submitted by this Government provides for a possible revision of the Convention on the Regulation of Automotive Traffic.¹² You are authorized to give your support to any action designed to further the purposes of these resolutions.

While this Government has cooperated and is prepared to continue its cooperation with the other interested governments in the completion of the Pan American Highway, it does not consider it appropriate or advisable for representatives of this Government to urge upon any other government the acceptance of assistance which this Government is prepared to give in connection with the construction of the highway. It is believed that the delegates should bear this policy in mind in any discussion of the projected highway which may be held. (See Handbook, pp. 86–90.)

(c) Other Measures.

Aviation

Although aviation is not on the agenda of the Eighth International Conference of American States, it is possible that there may be some discussion under this topic. Having this in mind, this Government prepared two resolutions on aviation, the texts of which have been sent to the Pan American Union for distribution among the governments members of the Pan American Union. One of these resolutions recommends the general ratification of the Inter-American Convention on Commercial Aviation adopted at Habana on February 20, 1928,¹³ during the Sixth International Conference of American States, and the other recommends that sympathetic consideration be given by the governments of the American Republics to the resolutions and recommendations adopted at the Inter-American Technical Aviation Conference held at Lima in September 1937¹⁴ with a view to putting them into practice, so far as possible, at an early date.

It is believed that general ratification of the Habana Convention at this time would render it possible to determine in the light of actual experience in what manner the Convention might require revision. Such experience would be of value, should the Permanent American Aeronautic Commission (CAPA), the organization of which was provided for at the Aviation Conference in Lima in September 1937, have occasion to consider the revision of the Convention.

Adoption, so far as may be found practicable, of the resolutions on aviation adopted at Lima in September 1937 is considered desirable, in order that the labors of that Conference will have practical results.

Copies of the Habana Convention on Commercial Aviation, with the resolutions of the Inter-American Technical Aviation Conference held at Lima in September 1937, and the report of the American Delegation to that Conference, will be found in the files of the Delegation.

Telecommunications

While telecommunications is not on the agenda of the Eighth International Conference of American States, it is probable that there may be some discussion under this topic, especially with regard to broadcasting. With this in view this Government prepared two resolutions on radio, the texts of which have been sent to the Pan American Union for distribution among the governments members of the Pan American Union.

The first of these resolutions recommends the ratification of or adherence to the agreements adopted at the Inter-American Radio Conference, Habana, November 1–December 13, 1937, by the governments members of the Pan American Union. The second of these resolutions recommends to each of the governments members of the Pan American Union that they consider plans for utilizing the Pan American frequencies in order that the people of all the American Republics may benefit from inter-American broadcasts.

While there are doubtless many technical problems in the field of telecommunications of interest to the members of the Pan American Union, it is suggested that a more appropriate forum for their consideration are such regional conferences as the Inter-American Radio Conference and the South American Radio Communication Conference, which will meet simultaneously at Santiago in the first quarter of 1940.

However, should the Conference desire to consider the question of the elimination of objectionable broadcasts, this Government will be prepared to become party to a resolution recommending that each government member of the Pan American Union should, so far as its internal legislation permits, seek means to prevent any broadcasting inimical to good understanding and friendship between the different members of the Union.

Topic 13. “Appointment of a commission of jurists to study and formulate a plan to bring about uniformity of commercial law and, as far as it may be possible, of civil law.”

In as much as the several States of the United States, with the exception of the State of Louisiana, possess a system of law based generally upon common law as distinguished from civil law, it is evident that the United States cannot from a practical standpoint participate in the formulation of a code of uniform civil law. If the republics of this hemisphere desire to entrust the work of preparing a uniform civil code to some acceptable body, the Delegation of the United States should merely refrain from voting on the instrument which may be concluded looking to that end. Its abstention might be explained, if necessary, on the grounds just stated.

On the subject of the desirability of entrusting to a body the formulation of a plan to bring about uniformity of commercial law, it may be stated that in view of the fact that commercial law is largely influenced by the civil-law or common-law system prevailing in the particular jurisdiction, and in as much as the United States is the only common-law country represented in the group of states attending the inter-American conferences, it may be questionable whether it will be feasible to bring about uniformity of commercial law to such an extent as would be useful to the United States.

On this subject, also, it is also desired that the Delegation of the United States refrain from voting if the matter is brought before the Conference. Its abstention might be explained, if necessary, on the ground that not only is common law, as distinguished from civil law, the basis of our law generally, but also the subject is one falling within the jurisdiction of the several States of the Union, rendering the adoption of any such code an extremely difficult task. In other words, the work would not be a practical and worthwhile undertaking so far as the United States is concerned. (See Handbook, pp. 93–95.)

Topic 14. “Immigration.”

Immigration policy is considered by this Government as a matter of domestic concern which is to be determined by each country with reference to its particular economic and social needs. The special handbook prepared by the Pan American Union for the use of the delegates to the Conference contains on pages 95 to 98, inclusive, background information relating to the consideration of immigration problems. The Department, while recognizing the domestic nature of the immigration policy of each country, is interested in the immigration problems of the American states and is prepared to participate in a helpful way in the study of these problems. Matters relating to the disposition of refugees from central European countries are being considered by the Intergovernmental Committee on Political Refugees,¹⁵ which has its seat at London.

The facilitation of tourist travel between the American states is a subject of considerable interest to the Department. This topic was discussed at the Seventh International Conference of American States held at Montevideo in December 1933 and at the Pan American Commercial Conference held at Buenos Aires in May and June 1935.¹⁶ The recommendations adopted at these conferences have led to the modification by various American states of the requirements relating to the entry and sojourn of tourists.

A memorandum on this subject is in the files of the Delegation and it contains information regarding the requirements of the United States for tourists. These requirements are comparatively simple. The delegates to the Conference may wish to consider from the viewpoint of the tourist the requirements of the various countries for tourists with a view to having the delegates recommend to their governments the taking of such further steps as may be feasible to reduce to a minimum the requirements for tourists and the study of the question of providing, where needed, transportation, hotel, sightseeing and other facilities in order to encourage travel by persons of moderate means.

The United States Government, under authority conferred by the act of February 5 [25], 1925,¹⁷ has concluded agreements with forty-seven countries for the reduction or waiver of visa fees for nonimmigrants. Agreements of this kind have been concluded with all the American states except Argentina, Bolivia, Paraguay and Uruguay. The Department is prepared at any time to conclude agreements with the governments of these countries for the waiver or reduction of visa fees for nonimmigrants.

Although, as you will note from the memorandum, the Secretary of State has authority to designate countries in the Western Hemisphere the citizens of which, if domiciled therein, may come to the United States without passports or visas, it is not contemplated that such exemption will be extended, for the time being, at least, to countries other than those contiguous to or near the United States as specified in the present visa regulations, copies of which are enclosed with the memorandum for reference purposes. As it is of great convenience to a tourist in establishing his nationality status and his classification as a tourist to have a passport and a visa, tourist travel may be encouraged to a greater degree by simplifying the requirements of obtaining visas and by issuing visas without charge than by exempting tourists from passport and visa requirements.

No commitments on behalf of the Government of the United States should, of course, be made without prior reference to the Department for approval. (See Handbook, pp. 95–98.)

Topic 15. “Consideration of the Status of the Indian and Rural Populations, and the Adoption of Labor Regulations.”

In view of the fact that the Bolivian Government has already issued invitations for a Continental Congress of Indianists to be convened at La Paz on August 2, 1939, the Delegation may take the position that specific proposals with respect to Indian life should be referred to that conference, where they would receive more adequate consideration than could be given to them at Lima. A draft text of a resolution recommending that the governments members of the Pan American Union be urged to participate in the La Paz conference is attached. You may introduce this resolution in case a similar one is not presented by some other delegation.

Any specific proposals dealing with rural populations other than Indians, and the adoption of labor regulations with respect to such populations, should receive consideration.

Should proposals be introduced by other delegations in the field of labor in general, the Delegation may indicate that this Government

(1) Is disposed to consider proposals dealing with the collection and publication of statistics and other factual data;

(2) Would be forced to reserve judgment on proposals dealing with actual conditions of labor, bearing in mind the facilities for study and action in this field offered by the International Labor Organization. You will especially keep in mind also in this connection the instructions on Topic 20 hereafter.

Although there is no specific mention of the matter in the agenda, the Conference may be called upon to consider the project to establish an Inter-American Bureau of Labor, which was the subject of Resolution XXIII,¹⁸ adopted by the Seventh (Montevideo) Conference. The United States Delegation to that Conference was given an instruction on this point which stated that the proposal appeared to be impracticable as an immediate step and that the United States Government could hardly expect to receive a return adequate to the expense in which it would be involved. This Government would still not be able to support a project for an independent inter-American labor office, especially in view of the fact that the United States is now a member of the International Labor Organization, which in the period since the Montevideo Conference has been developing an active program dealing with labor questions of special interest to the American States.

Chapter IV

Civil and Political Rights of Women

Topic 16. “Report of the Inter-American Commission of Women.”

Nothing is known with respect to the report which is to be submitted. It is probable, however, that efforts will be made by the Commission to urge the adoption of a Treaty on Equal Rights. It will be recalled that a similar attempt was made at the Montevideo Conference, but it was unsuccessful. Four countries signed a treaty outside the Conference, but none have ever ratified it.

This Government believes that Equal Rights is not an appropriate subject for a treaty and has so maintained at previous conferences. However, it may be necessary to offer as a substitute for the equal rights treaty a resolution drafted somewhat along the lines of Resolution XIX adopted by the Montevideo Conference¹⁹ recommending to the Governments of the Republics of America that they endeavor to bring about the passage of adequate legislation to insure for women full recognition of their rights and duties as citizens.

There is in the files of the Delegation a draft resolution recommending the continuation of the Inter-American Commission of Women in some more permanent form. This Government believes that the time has come to insure that the women of the United States on the Inter-American Commission of Women be appointed by the Government of the United States of America, and it believes that the women representing other countries should be appointed by the Governments of their own States, as representatives of those States. The Government of the United States further believes that any Inter-American Commission of Women should be an integral part of the inter-American machinery, no longer reporting directly to the Conference but acting in an advisory capacity on the problems of interest to women. Such a Commission should report to the Governing Board of the Pan American Union before each Conference of American States on the issues affecting women which are to be considered by the Conference.

For your confidential information, this Government believes that the manner in which the question of the problems of interest to women has been handled at various Conferences of American States since the Conference at Habana, which established temporarily the Inter-American Commission of Women, has served to bring before each Conference a highly controversial issue which has created irritation and annoyance and retarded the general progress of the Pan American Conferences. Questions affecting women should not be singled out for special treatment by special groups directly with the Conference but should take their place on the agenda and be handled by the delegations without the high-powered pressure of a group of persons not representative of either the women or the governments of their respective countries.

You are instructed to present the resolution as the project of the United States or to have it presented by some other delegation, whichever seems the more practical and advisable. This resolution has the support of the most important women’s organizations in this country, and you should endeavor to have it approved by the Conference.

There are in the files of the Delegation memoranda and other material concerning this subject for use of the delegates. (See Handbook, pp. 104–105).

Chapter V

Intellectual Cooperation and Moral Disarmament

Topic 17. “Means of Promoting Inter-American Intellectual and Technical Cooperation, and the Spirit of Moral Disarmament.”

This section of the agenda concerns plans for furthering intellectual and cultural exchange among the American States. In recent years notable progress has been made in these matters. In Chapter V (Page 106) of the Special Handbook for the Use of Delegates will be found a summary of some of these achievements, and also a list of suggestions for consideration at the present Conference.

The Government of the United States is interested in doing everything possible to encourage and strengthen cultural relations and intellectual cooperation between the United States and other countries, and for this purpose it has created a Division of Cultural Relations in the Department of State.²⁰

The Division is now engaged in establishing procedures for carrying into effect the obligations of the Convention for the Promotion of Inter-American Cultural Relations adopted at the Inter-American Conference for the Maintenance of Peace which met in Buenos Aires in December 1936.²¹

In the files of the Delegation are draft resolutions on the following subjects which the Delegation may wish to present to the Conference for its consideration:

1. Resolution to afford recognition to the Sección de Investigaciones Musicales of the Instituto de Estudios Superiores of Uruguay.

2. Resolution urging the establishment of summer or vacation courses in the Spanish, Portuguese, and French languages in certain American Republics.

3. Recommendation of support of the Eighth Biennial Congress of the World Federation of Education Associations to be held in Rio de Janeiro August 6–11, 1939.

4. Resolution recommending that the Governing Board of the Pan American Union study ways and means for increasing the exchange of works of art, literature, and dramatic productions.

5. Resolution recommending to the American Republics that they ratify the Convention for the Promotion of Inter-American Cultural Relations.

Also in the files of the Delegation will be found a memorandum explaining these resolutions.

Topic 18. “Consideration of the Project of Convention on Intellectual Property drafted by the Inter-American Committee on Intellectual Property of Montevideo.”

The views of the Department in regard to the Project of Convention scheduled for consideration as Topic 18 on the agenda of the Conference and the position which should be taken by the Delegation of the United States are set forth in some detail in a memorandum attached hereto, marked Annex 1.²²

Careful consideration has been given to all the factors involved in the existing situation affecting inter-American copyright protection and for the reasons set forth in the accompanying memorandum (Annex 1) the Department is of the opinion that the copyright interests of the United States as well as those of the other American Republics, would be materially advanced if the Conference should find it practicable to act in substantial accord with the recommendations of the Committee for the Study of Copyright, a subcommittee of the American National Committee on Intellectual Cooperation. The Committee’s recommendations are contained in the document attached hereto marked Annex 9.

The Delegation is accordingly requested to endeavor to obtain the cooperation of the other delegations for the submission to the Conference of the draft resolution and protocol prepared by the Committee for the Study of Copyright (Annex 9), and if there should appear to be reasonable ground to anticipate their acceptance by the Conference the Delegation should either present the resolution and protocol officially or support its submission by some other delegation, if the latter course should appear to be preferable.

While the Department considers that it is extremely improbable that the Conference will adopt either the Project of Convention prepared by the Montevideo Committee, or the draft convention prepared by the Committee of the League of Nations, it is not improbable that the Conference might adopt a resolution expressing its views as to either or both of the two drafts mentioned and suggesting changes therein. There would be no objection to the American Delegation’s joining in such a resolution if its terms did not include approval of provisions which have been or probably would be found unacceptable in the United States. In order that the question of the propriety of the Delegation’s joining in such a resolution might be considered by the appropriate authorities of the United States prior to the action of the Delegation, it is suggested that the draft of any proposed resolution be submitted to the Department textually for its consideration and the consideration of the copyright authorities of this Government.

Topic 19. “Conservation and Preservation of Natural Regions and Historic Sites.”

Material relating to this subject, including a dossier furnished by the American Committee of International Wild Life Protection, is in the files of the Delegation. A project which has been prepared by the Government of Mexico and published by the Pan American Union has been distributed to you.

The project of Mexico outlines the antecedents and the legislation in Mexico on the subject. The Mexican project states that no nation has presented reports on its respective legislation and regulations, but it has been obviously impossible for this Government to present any report in so short a time concerning the national and state legislation and accomplishments in this field.

The Mexican project recommends that the Pan American Union make a comparative study of the measures taken and legislation enacted in each nation and present a study to the Ninth International Conference of American States. Although this procedure seems practical, it is believed that some more positive action should be taken by the Conference. With this in view, there has been formulated a draft resolution which you will present to the Conference.

This draft resolution provides what is believed to be a practical and effective procedure for the conservation and preservation of natural regions and historic sites. It has been drafted in collaboration with the American Committee of International Wild Life Protection and has its support.

This Government is interested in the conservation and preservation of natural regions and historic sites and much has been done in this country by the national and state governments in this field. It is believed that an effort should be made to bring about as rapidly as possible effective measures throughout the Americas. The Delegation will lend its efforts toward the adoption of this or a similar resolution providing a feasible program, consistent with our national and state legislation, which will make effective throughout the Western Hemisphere nature protection, wild life preservation, and preservation of natural scenery and historical sites. (See Handbook, pp. 122–125).

Chapter VI

The Pan American Union and the International Conferences of American States

Topic 20. “Functions of the Pan American Union and cooperation of the Union and the International Conferences of American States with other international entities.”

The Governing Board of the Pan American Union in accordance with resolutions of the Seventh Conference in Montevideo in 1933 and the Buenos Aires Conference in 1936, made a study of the activities and methods of cooperation with other international organizations and has prepared a report and recommendations for consideration by the Lima Conference. This report is printed in the Handbook for the use of delegates, pages 126 to 130.

It will be observed that the Governing Board is of the opinion that, in view of the fact that all the sessions of the International Conferences of American States, as well as of the Committees of the Conference, are public, there is no reason for establishing a category of “official observers”. With regard to the relations of the Pan American Union with other international organizations, the Governing Board has submitted a resolution to the Conference recommending that the Pan American organs “within the limits of their organic statutes and without complicating or involving the integrity of the international organization of the twenty-one American Republics”, cooperate with international organizations in other parts of the world, exchanging information, coordinating investigations and promoting cooperative relations.

It may be stated that the recommendations of this report are entirely satisfactory to this Government. This Government has always maintained the position that the periodic inter-American conferences, the first of which was inaugurated on the initiative of the United States, have been held to discuss matters of special interest to the Republics of the Western Hemisphere. Efforts have been made during recent years to change this purely regional character and the Department views with satisfaction the recent action of the Governing Board on this matter. It is believed that these recommendations, if approved at the Lima Conference, will retain the independence of the inter-American organizations but at the same time encourage the development of cooperation between the inter-American agencies and other international bodies in matters of purely technical character. You should give your full support to these recommendations and it is hoped that they will be adopted by the Conference. (See Handbook, pp. 126–130).

Topic 21. “Future International Conferences of American States.”

The periodic International Conferences of American States, of which this is the eighth, were inaugurated by this Government in 1889. The United States has always shown a deep interest in these regular conferences and has been represented at each of the seven preceding ones. The Inter-American Conference for the Maintenance of Peace, held in Buenos Aires in 1936, although similar to the periodic conferences, was of an extraordinary character. President Coolidge assisted in the inauguration of the Sixth Conference in Habana in 1928, and President Roosevelt attended the opening session of the Buenos Aires Conference in 1936.

It has been customary for each Conference to designate the meeting place of the next conference and it is the opinion of this Government that such a procedure would be appropriate at the Lima Conference. The periodic conferences have been held in Washington, Mexico City, Rio de Janeiro, Buenos Aires, Santiago, Habana, Montevideo, and the forthcoming conference will meet in Lima.

The Department has been informed that the Government of Venezuela will extend an invitation to hold the Ninth Conference in Caracas. The Venezuelan Government has inquired whether this Government will support the invitation and has been informed that the United States Delegation will take pleasure in favoring the proposal that Caracas be the seat of the Ninth International Conference of American States.

Chapter VII

Reports

Topic 22. “Consideration of the report on the status of treaties and conventions signed at previous conferences.”

There is in the files of the Delegation a report on the status, as concerns the United States, of treaties and conventions signed at previous conferences. You may, if you deem it desirable, present this report to the Conference for its information. This report indicates the treaties ratified and outlines briefly the chief objections to those instruments which this Government has not ratified. (See Handbook, pp. 131–136.)

Topic 23. “Consideration of the results of inter-American conferences held since the Seventh International Conference of American States.”

It is not believed that any action will be necessary except to take cognizance of the results of the conferences held since the Seventh International Conference of American States and possibly urge that the results be put into effect. (See Handbook, pp. 136–140.)

[File copy not signed]

88. The delegates were designated by President Roosevelt on November 23, and Cordell Hull was appointed Chairman. For list of delegates, see Report of the Delegation of the United States of America to the Eighth International Conference of American States, p. 3.
89. Congressional Record, vol. 77, pt. 1, p. 5; see also, Address by President Roosevelt before the Special Session of the Governing Board of the Pan American Union at Washington, on Pan American Day, April 12, 1933, Department of State, Press Releases, April 15, 1933, p. 243.
90. Foreign Relations, 1928, vol. i, pp. 534, 535.
91. Report of the Delegates of the United States of America to the Seventh International Conference of American States, p. 194.
92. Recommendation: The Right of Conquest, adopted April 18, 1890; First International Conference of American States, International American Conferences, Reports of Committees and Discussions Thereon, English ed. (Washington, Government Printing Office, 1890), vol. ii, p. 1122.
93. Sixth International Conference of American States, Final Act, Motions, Agreements, Resolutions and Conventions, English ed. (Habana, 1928), p. 179.
94. Declaration of Principles of Inter-American Solidarity and Cooperation, Final Act of the Inter-American Conference for the Maintenance of Peace, Buenos Aires, December 1–23, 1936, p. 16.
95. Foreign Relations, 1932, vol. v, p. 159.
96. See Foreign Relations, 1937, vol. v, pp. 175 ff.
97. The files of the delegation are in the National Archives, Washington, D. C.
98. For text, see Report of the Delegates of the United States of America to the Seventh International Conference of American States, pp. 226–244.
99. Report of the Delegation of the United States of America to the Inter-American Conference for the Maintenance of Peace, Buenos Aires, Argentina, December 1–23, 1936, p. 116.
1. Ibid., p. 124.
2. Ibid., p. 131.
3. Foreign Relations, 1933, vol. i, p. 143.
4. For correspondence concerning Mr. Davis’ statement, see ibid., pp. 172 ff.
5. Signed at Rio de Janeiro, October 10, 1933, ibid., vol. iv, p. 234.
6. Signed at Montevideo, December 26, 1933, ibid., p. 214.
7. Report of the Delegation of the United States of America to the Inter-American Conference for the Maintenance of Peace, p. 131.
8. See Foreign Relations, 1935, vol. i, pp. 383 ff.
9. Not printed.
10. Neither printed.
11. Report of the Delegation of the United States of America to the Inter-American Conference for the Maintenance of Peace, p. 159; see also Foreign Relations, 1936, vol. v, pp. 151 ff.
12. Signed at Washington, October 6, 1930, ibid., 1930, vol. i, p. 297.
13. Foreign Relations, 1928, vol. i, p. 585.
14. See ibid., 1937, vol. v, pp. 198 ff.
15. See vol. i, pp. 758 ff.
16. See Report of the Delegates of the United States of America to the Pan American Commercial Conference Held at Buenos Aires, Argentina, May 26–June 19, 1935 (Washington, Government Printing Office, 1936), pp. 8, 17, 78, 132–134.
17. 43 Stat. 976.
18. For text, see Report of the Delegates of the United States of America to the Seventh International Conference of American States, Montevideo, Uruguay, December 8–26, 1933, pp. 214–218.
19. Ibid., p. 212.
20. Established July 18, 1938, by Departmental Order 768.
21. For text, see Report of the Delegation of the United States of America to the Inter-American Conference for the Maintenance of Peace, p. 167.
22. Annexes not printed.