Foreign Relations of the United States: Diplomatic Papers, 1944, The American Republics, Volume VII

740.21112 RP/48: Telegram

The Ambassador in Colombia ( Lane ) to the Secretary of State

Bogotá , March 3, 1944—noon.
[Received 4:20 p.m.]

393. See my A–178, February 26, noon. This morning Folsom, Rubin⁹⁶ and I had meeting with Minister of Education who has been designated by Acting President Echandía to deal with replacement program. Dr. Rocha said that as Minister of Hacienda and Minister of Public Health⁹⁷ are leaving office next week to enter presidential campaign administrative action with regard to nationalization of German drug industry probably cannot take place until early April. On the return of Derby⁹⁸ from Mexico City however Dr. Rocha indicated willingness to discuss matter with him and it was suggested by me that Folsom and Rubin stop in Bogotá on their return trip from Chile to acquaint themselves more fully with situation.

Dr. Rocha made it clear that because of the political situation no constructive steps may be expected for some weeks.

Rocha said that the question of replacement program would have to be submitted to the National Defense Commission prior to administrative action being taken by the Minister of Hacienda.

Lane

96. Seymour J. Rubin, Assistant Chief, Division of Financial and Monetary Affairs.
97. Jorge E. Gaitan.
98. Robert J. Derby, Special Assistant to the Ambassador in Colombia.