819.011/80a: Telegram

The Acting Secretary of State to the Ambassador in Panama (Dawson)

171. From Duggan. Department understands from your telephone call today that the Panamanian National Assembly has approved an amendment to the proposed new constitution stating “There are recognized the jurisdictional limitations stipulated in public treaties celebrated prior to this legislative action amending the Constitution.37

In view of the adoption of this amendment, the Department approves your action in withholding presentation of the note contained in the Department’s telegram no. 168 of November 15. [Duggan.]

Welles
  1. The National Assembly adopted the new Constitution on November 22, 1940; a plebiscite was held on December 15, 1940, giving overwhelming approval; the new Constitution became effective January 2, 1941. For Spanish text, see Panama, Gaceta Oficial, No. 8403, November 29, 1940, p. 1.