824.01/8–846: Telegram
The Ambassador in Bolivia (Flack) to the Secretary of State
us urgent
[Received 2:26 p.m.]
771. I had informal conversation this morning with FonMin Solares at his request. I told him I had no further information from Washington [Page 371] yet about recognition. He expressed opinion that at this stage, our recognition would be most helpful and that Argentina and others evidently now awaiting our action.
Solares reverted to list of Americans in possible danger at mines which he had asked me to give him and assured me that steps were under way through Ministry of Government to assure them all protection. He added Government realizes this question closely connected with general attitude of miners. He added that if Lechín55 were placed in custody, this would release a series of dangerous uprisings at the mines and that Government has decided to play ball with Lechín not as MNR did, but for economic welfare of Bolivia. Miners increasingly aware Junta’s efforts.
Minister asked my opinion on asylum question and I said that while we were not parties to specific asylum treaties, I felt that to contribute to internal order Diplomatic Corps’ request for safe exit of all in asylum was best solution, since under existing treaties preventative arrest can be obtained administratively pending submission extradition documents in case common criminals. Minister said matter will be further considered Junta before reply to Diplomatic Corps’ last memo, August 6th.56
I feel strongly that recognition by US very important at this stage and should now be extended as soon as possible. Peru’s action yesterday, postdated 6th, imitated Chile’s recognition same day.