819.00/4–2648: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Embassy in Panama
us urgent
341. Dept agrees with Emb that outright request for assignment Canal Zone police in New Cristobal district during elections would be unwelcome to Panamanian Govt urtel 21 Apr 26, 1948, especially view our recent decision re sale armored cars. Dept believes Emb should confine its approach to Govt to request for additional Panamanian police protection. Emb should endeavor phrase its request so that Govt, in event it replies insufficient police available to increase New Cristobal force, may come forward with suggestion that Panamanian contingent in New Cristobal district be supplemented by police from Canal Zone. Please keep Dept informed.1
- The Chargé in Panama (Hall) stated in telegram 341, April 30, 7 p. m., not printed: “With complete cooperation Caribbean Command, which I commend, all measures for protection of US citizens and continued operation of Embassy will be in effect by tomorrow noon and will be reported upon at first opportunity” (819.00/4–3048), and, in telegram 342, the same date, not printed: “Foreign Minister approached this noon and government now promises to double present police force assigned New Cristobal. Comptroller General has authorized necessary funds” (819.00/4–3048).↩