710 Consultation 4/11–2844: Circular telegram
The Acting Secretary of State to the Diplomatic Representatives in the American Republics Except Argentina and El Salvador
The exchange of views among the American Republics with respect to the proposal for a meeting of Foreign Ministers has progressed to a point which, in the judgment of this Government, suggests the desirability of a review of developments and a determination of a future course of common action.
(1) It is gratifying to note that the fact which stands out above all others in the views thus far expressed is the unanimous desire to [Page 65] arrive at a consensus before any replies are made to the Governing Board of the Pan American Union. It is recognized by all of the interested governments that it is of fundamental importance that they arrive at a unanimous agreement on this problem of common concern.
(2) There has been similar agreement on the proposition that, at as early a date as may be possible and mutually agreeable, there should be held a meeting of Ministers of the republics which have collaborated in the war effort. Practically all of the Republics agree that there are important matters relating to the prosecution of the war, as well as to the post-war, which require consideration at a meeting of Ministers.
(3) With respect to the request of the Farrell government that the question of Argentina’s international position be considered at a meeting of Ministers, there has been a sufficient indication of views to serve as a basis for discussion looking to common agreement.
It is true that some governments, including this Government, are very doubtful as to the utility of a trial of the Argentine case in the forum of a Meeting of Ministers. Some of the governments have also taken the position that until there is a clearly demonstrated fundamental change of attitude on the part of the Farrell government, any discussion of the Argentine question would be of little utility, and should certainly not be permitted to cause a postponement of a meeting on urgent war and post-war problems. On the other hand, there is a disposition on the part of other governments to state the case with respect to Argentina’s international situation either by means of negotiations through ordinary diplomatic channels, or at a Meeting of Ministers.
It is important to stress that in no instance has there been a categoric stand by any government. Rather, in the spirit of inter-American collaboration, the governments have reiterated their decision to continue consultations with a view to a true consensus.
(4) Although the Government of the United States considers that very real progress has been made toward reaching such a consensus, it also believes that there is danger of unnecessary confusion if the consultations are unduly prolonged. It is therefore our earnest desire to reach an agreement with all of the other republics prior to the next meeting of the Governing Board of the Pan American Union on December 6, or as soon thereafter as possible.
To this end the Government of the United States proposes that the following action be taken by the Governing Board of the Pan American Union:
- 1.
- Approval of the proposal for a meeting of Foreign Ministers of the Republics which have cooperated in the war effort, to discuss urgent war and post-war problems, without, however, fixing a definite date for the meeting.
- 2.
- Appointment of a subcommittee by the Governing Board of the Pan American Union with instructions to fix a date for the meeting after consultation with the respective governments.
- 3.
- Disposition of the Argentine request for a hearing on its international position by addressing a communication to the Farrell regime in which the other republics state that they are prepared to hear the case of that regime, subject to appropriate procedural safeguards which will ensure full and free consideration of the fundamental issues.
With respect to point 3 of the suggested action, this Government continues to entertain serious reservations with regard to the utility of such trial of the Argentine regime. However, we reiterate our readiness to grant such a hearing at the close of the meeting, if this is desired by the other republics.
You are requested to present the foregoing contents of this message to the Foreign Minister in a memorandum and to state that if his Government is prepared to support the course of action suggested, it so inform the other American Republics as well as the representative of his Government on the Pan American Union as promptly as possible. If the consensus of the American Republics favors the procedure outlined, it is hoped that this decision can be taken in time for appropriate action by the Governing Board of the Union on December 6.
You will of course adapt the foregoing instructions to the views already expressed by the Government to which you are accredited.