Foreign Relations of the United States, 1958–1960, Volume V, Microfiche Supplement, American Republics

BL–19. Telegram from the Chargé in Bolivia (Coerr) to the Department of State¹

La Paz, March 2, 1959, 6 p.m.

464-A. PASS USIA

EMBTEL 462²

In view mounting personal hostility toward Americans, demonstrations against Embassy personnel and increasing pressure from press, I handed the following note Foreign Minister 3:30 this afternoon:

QUOTE

I have the honor to refer to our conversation of February 27 and to give Your Excellency the following assurances: immediately following our conversation I instituted investigations concerning a statement attributed to an officer of this Embassy by the current Latin American edition of TIME Magazine and I have found absolutely no evidence that such a statement was made by an officer of this Embassy. I have every confidence that no officer of this Embassy did, in fact, make such a statement

The reprehensible suggestion that Bolivia be abolished and divided among its neighbors is obviously completely contrary to the demonstrated attitude and policy of the USG as evidenced by its respect for the independence and integrity of Bolivia and by its close and friendly relations with Bolivia, including cooperative efforts in recent years to assist Bolivia toward a solution of its basic economic problems. The Government of the United States is, and will continue to be, interested in a strong, independent and prosperous Bolivia.

Accept Excellency, et cetera

UNQUOTE

Will confirm and report.³

Coerr

1. Source: Department of State, Central Files, 724.00/3–259. Confidential; Niact.
2. The referenced telegram, from La Paz, March 1, 1959, reported that the newsstand edition of Time, released by the Government of Bolivia to dealers on February 28, was seized by MNR youth who were planning to burn it, and symbols of the United States, on March 2. (724.00/3-159)
3. In telegram 464-B from La Paz, March 2, 1959, Coerr reported that the Government of Bolivia announced, “con placido”, with pleasure, receipt of the Embassy’s note, and repeated its intention to ask the Department to take action against Time if the story was inaccurate. Coerr advised, “For Time to reaffirm an Embassy source now could seriously aggravate already violent situation with consequent increased danger Americans here.” (724.00/3–259)