CH–4. Telegram from the Chargé in Chile (Belton) to the Department of State1
692. Further analysis Ibanez decision cancel trip underscores conviction immediate cause was irritation resulting from his misunderstanding U.S. position copper import tax and lack inclination or ability take time (Frondizi here April 14 to 16) to understand it. Ibanez apparently expected Puga obtain clarifying statement from Secretary State or President expressing determination U.S. Government avoid copper tax damaging to Chile. Ibanez also apparently assured that in U.S., as in Chile, Interior is top-ranking member Cabinet and principal spokesman government policies.
Also likely Ibanez foresaw difficulties if copper tax should go into effect shortly after his return and seized on current furor re copper as convenient basis avoid them.
Whatever his true motives (which are subject of much speculation among few who understand that U.S. Government position was not unfavorable to Chile and know these facts were available to Ibanez) his action has gained support among even best friends of U.S. here, who feel this dramatic gesture may bring to our attention the neglect which Chileans feel the U.S. has shown for Latin America as compared with rest of world. The left is particularly enthusiastic and responsible rightist politicians are fearful it may be prelude to a sharp turn to left by Ibanez which would aid Allende presidential campaign.
Ibanez momentarily riding unaccustomed wave popular support as Chileans almost universally applaud his decisive action in upholding national dignity in face allegedly unfriendly act by U.S. Only criticism stems from transparently false reasons cited in message to Eisenhower.2
[Facsimile Page 2]In considering this whole incident, particularly the illogical aspects of it, we must bear in mind two important factors - Ibanez advisers and his character.
[text not declassified]
- Source: Department of State, Central Files, 725.11/4–1758. Confidential; Priority.↩
- Telegram 575, April 17, 1958, instructed the Ambassador in Chile to deliver Eisenhower’s response, which expressed regrets and further stated, “Your visit would undoubtedly have strengthened even further the close ties that characterize relations between Chile and the United States. I especially regret your not coming because our Governments will be deprived of a signal opportunity to review problems of mutual interest to us. Nevertheless, I can well understand and appreciate the matters of overriding national importance which must perforce occupy the attention of the President of a great democratic nation like Chile and which have necessitated your decision.” (725.11/4–1758)↩