162. Telegram From the Embassy in Portugal to the Department of State 1

4. Ref: Deptel 697, June 19.2 I met with FonMin July 1 discuss his recent trip US. He was relaxed and extremely cordial and felt he had [Page 330] fine visit. He recognized Secretary’s preoccupation Viet Nam and Dominican Republic and expressed regret not able see President, but said he understood. Salazar and Cabinet briefed on Brazilian portion his trip but not then on visit to US.

FonMin described his three-hour conversation with Secretary as friendly and said he was obliged make complaints he did in order be sure brought to Secretary’s attention. Grateful that complaints “will be investigated.” He expressed regret he left impression Loran-C and Azores base negotiations are linked to solution Portuguese problem in Africa. He had considered asking for another brief period with Secretary to clarify this impression indicating to me that other “quid pro quo” perhaps feasible.

With respect Loran-C I told FonMin I disappointed they had not come to grips this important problem during conversations. FonMin said he could not say now how we should proceed on Loran-C and would talk to me after reporting to Prime Minister.

I pointed out to him that another question raised during conversation was not answered, the Secretary’s request that Portugal give its friends “a flag to rally around.” While Portuguese position in Africa relatively strong now, I suggested GOP consider best way cope with situation in terms of 15 or 20 years. If Portugal could show some flexibility we might be able help out. FonMin said he would keep these considerations in mind and talk about subject after seeing Prime Minister.

He repeated old complaints about United Nations, stressing unfriendly make-up of Secretariat which is dominated by Indians and Communist Bloc nationals.

After this discussion with FonMin I am somewhat less pessimistic possibilities our doing business with GOP on matters essential to US.

Anderson
  1. Source: National Archives and Records Administration, RG 59, Central Files 1964-66, POL PORT-US. Confidential. There is no time of transmission on the telegram, which was received at 3:26 p.m.
  2. Document 161.