722.2315/2560: Telegram

The Ambassador in Argentina (Armour) to the Secretary of State

1307. For the Under Secretary. The Minister for Foreign Affairs has just informed me that as a result of a talk with Aranha this morning they are in agreement as to the advisability of having Chile included in the negotiations for a definitive settlement of the Peru and Ecuador dispute. He had received from Espil yesterday a telegram [apparent omission] your information that Peru has now agreed to negotiations for a final settlement and both he and Aranha felt that Chile’s interest in the Pacific justified its inclusion in the final negotiations which would presumably be held in Buenos Aires. Aranha felt that Chile would accept if invited.

If you are in agreement as to inclusion of Chile, Ruiz Guiñazú suggested that matter be taken up with Peruvian and Ecuadoran Governments through representatives of the mediatory Governments at Lima and Quito. If both Governments agree invitation to Chile would then be extended through the three Ambassadors at Santiago.

A telegram is being sent to Espil tonight asking him to take this matter up with you. Telegram will also give Aranha and Ruiz Guiñazús ideas of general lines Ecuadoran negotiations might follow with view to final settlement.

Armour