818.00/12–1348: Circular telegram
The Acting Secretary of State to Diplomatic Representatives in the American Republics
Council of OAS convened Dec 12 to consider Costa Rican problem. All OARS present except Ecuador and Cuba. Council heard summary by CR delegation its complaint as follows:
- 1.
- Armed invasion CR territory from Nicaraguan territory by group of mixed nationals;
- 2.
- Failure Nicaragua take proper action prevent this revolutionary movement from its territory;
- 3.
- No charge of aggression against Nicaragua. Nic Del explained Nic position as
follows:
- 1.
- Nic had no aggressive intentions against CR or any other nation;
- 2.
- Nic had abided and would abide by 1928 Habana Convention regarding revolutionary movements within its borders against other countries;
- 3.
- There is no conflict between Govts Nic and CR.
Results of meeting:
- 1.
- Approved following resolution: “1. To study urgently, on the basis of adequate information, the problem presented by the Republic of CR, in its note dated Dec 11, 1948, in order to decide whether to proceed to convoke a Meeting of Consultation. 2. To recommend to its Chairman that he request full information from sources that he considers suitable. 3. To convoke the Council of the Organization for an extraordinary session on Tuesday Dec 14, at 3 in the afternoon.”
- 2.
- Chairman of Council was to send telegram to Presidents of CR and Nic expressing profound preoccupation and decision to take measures tending to maintain international peace and security.
There was considerable debate whether Council was already acting as provisional organ of consultation under Rio Treaty or whether that should be specifically approved by Council after consulting Govts. Resolution does not specifically cover this point legally, but combined with telegrams seems to cover all that could be done at this stage.
The Dels both countries expressed themselves favor of closing frontier to prevent aggravation disturbances. CR proposed commission be appointed to investigate and study conditions on the spot, but this was not agreed this meeting. CR also favored international force to control disorder but no action was taken.
Resolution provides that Council is considering whether consultative meeting of Foreign Ministers should be convoked. General sentiment seemed against taking such action at this time nor does Dept see need for it now if Council can work actively.