831.00/7–1546
The Secretary of State to the Ambassador in Venezuela ( Corrigan )
us urgent
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291. Urtel 357 July 15. Pending receipt full info in desp referred to, Dept reiterates opinion that association with Col most desirable particularly since latter as host to López Contreras has legitimate interest and responsibility in any political activities carried on by him from Col soil. Dept appreciates possible disinclination of Betancourt to have Col participate, but believes the over-riding consideration of protecting this Govt from any possible charge intervention counsels this step.
Since Dawson’s trip to Medellín is not likely to escape Col attention, Dept considers it highly desirable that Col Govt be informed.
Repeated to Bogotá for Amb and Dawson.