831.01/1–1349: Telegram
The Acting Secretary of State to the Embassy in Venezuela
12. Dept feels exchange of views with other Amer Reps and its press release Dec 211 have made clear our belief use of force as instrument political change of duly elected Govts inconsistent ideals Amer Reps. Dept also convinced non-recognition not suitable approach to problem and concludes no useful purpose would be served in further delaying resumption normal relations with Ven Govt.
You shld therefore on Jan 21 send or in ur discretion deliver in person to FonMin note replying his note Nov 25. Subject any changes you deem advisable, which shld be approved in advance by Dept, text reply shld be as follows:
“I have the honor to ack receipt of Your Excellency’s note dated Nov 25, 1948 informing me that a Military Junta of Govt has been constituted under the Presidency of Lt. Colonel Carlos Delgado Chalbaud in which Your Excellency has been designated to serve as Minister of Foreign Relations.
“My Govt has noted Your Excellency’s statement that the new administration will strictly fulfill its international obligations. It has also noted a passage in an address delivered on Nov. 26, 1948 by His Excellency the President of the Junta in which it is stated that the Junta will prepare for elections in which all citizens will participate under conditions of equality.
“My Govt attaches importance to this statement particularly in view of a cardinal principle found in the Charter of the Organization of Amer States, namely: [Page 152]
‘The solidarity of the Amer States and the high aims which are sought through it require the political organization of those States on the basis of the effective exercise of representative democracy’.
“Under instructions from my Govt, I have the honor to express to Your Excellency the hope that the cordial relations which have long existed between Ven and the US will continue unimpaired.
“Accept, Excellency, the assurances of my highest consideration.”
Upon receipt advice ur note has been delivered Dept will issue press release including texts two notes.2
Govts OAR and Canada being informed our proposed action.