719.00/5–1151: Telegram

The Secretary of State to the Embassy in Panama

confidential
priority

365. Dept believes question recognition shld not be raised and public statements on this issue shld be avoided if possible. When public order restored and in your judgment Arosemena position as Pres clear you are authorized continue normal contact.

For your info Dept bases position on fact Arosemena first Vice Pres Arias Govt and Supreme Court ruled legality his succession. Dept believes you shld take early opportunity make clear Arosemena US assumes full compliance by Pan Govt internal commitments, including claims settlement,1 interrupted by disorders.

Acheson
  1. On January 26, 1950, the United States and Panamá had signed at Panamá a claims convention providing for the settlement of certain long-standing mutual claims. The convention had entered into force on October 11, 1950. For text, see 1 UST 685, or TIAS No. 2129.