Foreign Relations of the United States, 1949, The United Nations; The Western Hemisphere, Volume II

840.50 Recovery/2–2449: Telegram

The Chargé in Argentina ( Ray ) to the Secretary of State

confidential

Buenos Aires , February 24, 1949—6 p. m.

196. For James Bruce.¹

1. Bramuglia understood following conversations Howard Bruce and Lovett,² ECA would buy $100 million foodstuffs Argentina near future and he so informed Perón. Both now extremely anxious have definite statement from ECA re purchases here. Perón and Bramuglia have urged me request you obtain statement ECA policy this point and inform me.

2. Bramuglia and Ares worried over present financial situation here and anxious find solution first of Argentina clearing up outstanding obligations to US banks and exporters.³ They expressed confidence no insurmountable difficulties exist but say our friendly conversations here have not produced concrete results. They urge appointment small committee headed by you or me and sending one or two experts from State Department or Commerce Department who could speak with authority and cooperate with us in solving present financial and economic difficulties between Argentina and US. They feel that with economic difficulties settled political matters would be easy. These officials and Perón now in frame of mind negotiate on reasonable basis and I think much could be accomplished here by small committee having necessary authority. Bramuglia and Ares mentioned appointment small committee local American businessmen for purpose consultation.

3. Ares added that Argentina would be disposed to begin immediately negotiation for a commercial convention or agreement with United States which would protect the interests of two countries including interests of American business in Argentina and practically any other matter which we might wish to include in the agreement or convention.

Ray

1. U.S. Ambassador in Argentina, at that time in Washington for discussions.
2. See footnote 3 to the letter from Tewksbury to Bruce, January 25, 1949, p. 478.
3. In telegram 190, February 23, from Buenos Aires, Mr. Ray reported: “When I asked Bramuglia recently if President was aware seriousness situation, Bramuglia replied with dry grin: ‘Yes, he understands situation and he is scared’.” (835.00/2–2349)