824.6352/9–545: Telegram

The Acting Secretary of State to the Ambassador in Bolivia (Thurston)

593. Dept is deeply concerned at the general implications of Embtel 921, Sept. 5.

At the same time it does not see how it can object to a strike nor is it disposed to confuse commercial considerations like those involved in the tin negotiations with considerations of security. This Govt takes the position that security of American citizens is an absolute obligation of Bolivian Govt. It is suggested that you specify exactly what steps you consider Bolivian Govt should take for the protection of American mining personnel and ascertain from Bolivian authorities on basis of the MinFonAff statement (Dept. A–294, Aug. 2878) whether they are prepared to take these steps.

Please report by telegraph.

Acheson
  1. Not printed.