269. Editorial Note

On March 31, from 8:44 to 9:30 a.m., President Eisenhower met at the White House with Acting Secretary Herter, Under Secretary Dillon, and General Goodpaster. (Eisenhower Library, President’s Daily Appointments) According to Goodpaster’s memorandum, April 3, the following exchange took place regarding Prime Minister Castro’s planned visit to the United States:

“The President said that he is planning to be away from approximately April 6 until approximately April 19. Mr. Herter said he welcomed this news, since the President would then be away when Fidel Castro is here from Cuba, and no problem will arise as to the President’s seeing him. The President said that, disagreeable as it might be, he would, if here, see him at his office. He added he could not understand why the editors of American newspapers, who are supposed to have American interests at least somewhat at heart, should issue such an invitation.” (ibid., Whitman File, DDE Diaries)

In telegram 742 to Havana, sent during the afternoon of March 31, the Department requested that Bonsal extend on behalf of Acting Secretary Herter an invitation to Castro for an official luncheon at 1 p.m. on April 16. If Bonsal were asked whether Castro might meet with the President, the Ambassador was to reply that the President planned to be away from Washington during Castro’s visit. (Department of State, Central Files, 033.3711/3–2459)

On April 1, Bonsal informed the Department that he had a 4–hour session that day with Prime Minister Castro, Agramonte, Dihigo, and Bisbe. Bonsal said the conversation covered a wide variety of topics and was “moderately constructive.” Castro accepted with pleasure Herter’s invitation for lunch on April 16. Bonsal also said that on the basis of “recent press stories,” Castro had expressed interest in paying a call on Vice President Nixon. Bonsal urged that such a visit occur early during Castro’s stay “as this would be most constructive.” (Telegram 1127 from Havana, April 1; ibid., 033.3711/4–159)