23. Telegram From the Embassy in Uruguay to the Department of State1
126. Please transmit following message to President:
“Dear Mr. President:
We have noted some feeling among smaller countries that Brazil and Argentina are working together to dominate conference. There is [Page 52] also some concern that my stop in Brasilia and my visit tomorrow with Frondizi are an indication that US is aiding and abetting this effort. Chilean Minister strongly urged that I stop in some other capital, not necessarily Santiago, on way back to Washington and that this be announced before conference ends.
I think there is considerable merit in Chilean suggestion. Most convenient stop over would be Caracas, which could substitute for planned overnight at Ramey. In view of document affair such a stop might be particularly useful. Accordingly, after talking matter over with Woodward who fully concurs I told Mayobre that if Venezuelan Government felt it would be helpful I would be glad to stop overnight at Caracas on way home, visiting with Betancourt that night and/or following morning. Mayobre thought this a fine idea and said he would consult his government and let me know. Had one hour meeting with Venezuelans who expressed great appreciation for our prompt action in putting out statement re document. In addition to Venezuelans and those mentioned in earlier message have now had full scale meetings with Mexico and Colombia.
Faithfully yours,
Sparks
- Source: Department of State, Central Files, 371.8/8-961. Secret; Niact.↩