52. Telegram 145 to Bogota, August 281
Info: AmEmbassy Buenos Aires; AmEmbassy Rio De Janeiro; All Other ARA Diplomatic Posts (by pouch); USUN, New York (by pouch); POLAD, CINCARIB (by pouch). Your 97 and 123.
In your meeting with President Lleras and Fonmin Turbay you may indicate Department believes it would be most helpful for GOC to translate action program outlined its memoranda into drafts of specific resolutions which would serve as basis consultations looking to their approval by MFM when held. In line with close consultations on this matter since first Lleras memorandum, we would also be grateful for opportunity to review and comment these drafts prior to their being taken up with selected key countries. In your next conversation with President or Fonmin this subject you should also indicate our strong interest their estimate support for such drafts on country-by-country basis, as well as on timing and site of possible MFM.
FYI Department not as optimistic, particularly following Punta del Este conference, about degree of support for Colombian initiative as various reports would indicate (e.g. Panama City 176 rptd Bogotá 5 and Turbay’s estimate contained second paragraph your 123). Difficult to determine actual position of several doubtful countries until specific language put before them and [Facsimile Page 2] commitment support solicited. Events in Brazil may also have significant bearing not only on Brazilian position toward Castro but also upon position of other countries which were influenced by Quadros’ policies. Until support for Colombian plan clearly established, it would be inadvisable reach any decision on pressing for MFM. END FYI
Re Guevara’s talk with Frondizi you may inform Lleras and Turbay that according to info we have received Guevara repeated line that Cuba had no intention enter into military arrangements with Soviets, wanted to remain in inter-American family, would like to negotiate differences with GUS, and would not try to export revolution. (US position of course remains as stated Depcirtel 936.) Guevara reportedly did not ask GOA help negotiate differences with US and did not bring up subject possible MFM.
- Instructions for meeting with President Lleras and Foreign Minister Turbay regarding action program on Cuba outlined earlier by Colombia. Confidential. 2 pp. DOS, CF, 721.00/8–2861.↩