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

HO–18. Telegram from the Ambassador in Honduras (Burrows) to the Department of State¹

Tegucigalpa, November 18, 1960, 4 p.m.

391. Reference Department telegram 231, 141 to Managua.²

This is day of national rejoicing and at least momentary political unity in Honduras.³ Orderly manifestations and celebration have continued since 6 a.m. with participation all shades political spectrum and with official holiday declared. Examples of prevailing spirit were appearance at Plaza Morazan of ex-President Galvez together with Villeda Morales and joint manifesto signed by Villeda Morales, former Presidents Galvez and Carias plus members of 1956 junta hailing juridical victory and peaceful return of disputed territory.

Some voices calling for immediate and unilateral implementation if necessary of court decision but indications have been since character of decision first known here on November 14 that Honduran Government does not intend endeavor force untimely or disorderly takeover of territory. This has been clear from conversations with Foreign Minister⁴ and with private secretary of the President⁵ among others. This morning, when I conveyed substance reference telegram, President confirmed this attitude, gave me copy his message to Somoza translated below, and professed readiness work closely with Nicaraguan authorities toward orderly transfer of territory. In answer suggestion that students or Guardia Civil might move precipitously he pointed out students or others could not possibly arrive at border without air transportation which definitely would not be provided.

Military and civil authorities interested only in continuation to final conclusion of legal orderly process which has so successfully been begun.

President said that if he were to receive message from Somoza indicating readiness to participate in such orderly transfer of authority he would reply in like vein. Impression I received is that Villeda Morales would be happy participate in procedure which might be example for entire area and, perhaps, beginning of new era of improved relations between Nicaragua and Honduras. That, at least, was atmosphere in presidential palace today; a personal meeting on border between Somoza and Villeda Morales to formalize agreed procedure and to demonstrate spirit of collaboration was even discussed in my presence by several ranking officials of GOH.

Now, it was also suggested, only dispute over Swan Islands is with U.S.⁶ Foreign Minister and others insisted to me that Swan Islands is basis for different kinds of disagreement which they satisfied can and will be resolved by friendly discussion. Meanwhile, however, there have been repeated references in radio broadcasts and by sound trucks to Swan Islands issue and even to protest meetings.

“ICJ resolution calling for execution of royal arbitration award of 1906, which settled frontier dispute between our countries, is motive patriotic jubilation and Central Americanist satisfaction for the Government and people of Honduras because, in this manner, bonds of affection and understanding between two sister republics are fully restored. Justice never one-sided, wherefore I am sure you will join our celebration of judicial sentence which definitely eliminates cause of resentment between our peoples and rebuilds between Honduras and Nicaragua bases of traditional and unbreakable friendship. I hope as we raise again symbols of Honduran sovereignty in localities which until now have been subject de facto occupation, our two peoples, united in brotherhood since their political emancipation, may strengthen their economic, social and cultural bonds in noble aim of Central American integration. I avail myself of this opportunity to renew to you (sic) the expressions of my high (sic) and distinguished consideration. Ramon Villeda Morales, President of Honduras.”

Burrows

1. Source: Department of State, Central Files, 615.173/11–1860. Secret; Priority. Sent also to Managua.
2. In telegram 231 to Tegucigalpa, the Department of State informed Ambassador Burrows that it had received a report for Exised Managua that should the International Court of Justice adjudicate the Nicaraguan-Honduran boundary dispute in favor of Honduras, the Government of Nicaragua feared that Honduran students and elements of the Honduran Guardia Civil would provoke an incident in the disputed area. To prevent such an incident, the Department of State requested the Embassies at Tegucigalpa and at Managua to convey promptly the hope of the United States Government that Honduras and Nicaragua would make every effort to carry out promptly and without incident the decision of the International Court of Justice. (615.173/11–1760)
3. On November 18, 1960, the International Court of Justice announced its decision upholding Honduras’ claims against Nicaragua to the disputed area known as Gracias a Dios.
4. Andrés Alvarado.
5. Juan Agurcia.
6. See Secretary of State Herter’s memorandum of December 8, 1960, to President Eisenhower, Document HO-22.