208. Memorandum of a Conversation, Argentine Foreign Office, Buenos Aires, February 27, 1960, 11 a.m.1

US/MC/31

SUBJECT

  • U.S.-Argentine Economic Problems

PARTICIPANTS

  • U.S.
    • The Secretary
    • Mr. Rubottom
    • Mr. Bernbaum, Minister Counselor of Embassy
    • Mr. Nugent, Counselor of Embassy
  • Argentina
    • Minister of Foreign Affairs Taboada
    • Dr. D’Hers, Under Sec. for Foreign Affairs
    • Mr. Ruda, Minister Counselor of Foreign Office

Civil Aviation

Secretary Herter: We understand that further consideration will be given to this subject.

Minister Taboada: We have informed Ambassador Beaulac of the decision to reopen the conversations begun last September. Although we are unable to say that Argentina has changed its basic position since September, we can affirm that we shall be able to discuss matters with a much greater degree of flexibility than heretofore. President Frondizi desires to reach a suitable solution, and this should have a helpful effect. We are optimistic, therefore, that differences can be settled. We know that the United States already has standard agreements with a number of other countries and that it is difficult to make exceptions in favor of single countries. A commission has been formed [Page 614] in Argentina to deal with the matter and is able to meet either in Buenos Aires or Washington, as soon as its United States counterpart is ready to begin discussions.

American and Foreign Power Case

Secretary Herter: This has been going on for some time. Would you be able to indicate what are the prospects?

Minister Taboada: We are going to do everything possible to settle this matter. President Frondizi desires to eliminate any remaining points of difference, and we are confident that a satisfactory arrangement will be found. The delay in this matter is owing simply to procedure.

  1. Source: Department of State, Conference Files: Lot 64 D 559, CF 1596. Confidential. Drafted by Nugent. See also Documents 206 and 207.