305. Telegram From the Consulate in Montreal to the Department of State1

745. For Bureau of Economic Affairs E–OA. Reference Telecon of Feehan and Durkin2 subject high jacking

1) Text of note to IATA re high jacking is as follows:

“Dear Mister Hammarskjold, I have received the following message from His Excellency Doctor Osvaldo Dorticos President of the Republic of Cuba in reply to your previous messages with the instructions to transmit it to you.

‘In connection with your messages about high jacking of aircraft I wish to call your attention to the fact that Cuba has no responsibility whatsoever for such facts of which she was originally the victim while no initiative was taken internationally to prevent it. Such facts are derived from the criminal policy of blockade and hostility which the imperialist Government of the United States of America has adopted against Cuba with the support of the oligarchical and reactionary governments of Latin America. We believe that as long as such criminal policy is maintained no investigation (examination) whatsoever can take place to avoid its regrettable consequences. Therefore we regret not to be able to accept your suggestion. The Revolutionary Government of Cuba has never encouraged nor does it encourage high jacking of aircraft. But such facts have become a practice adopted against our country by the promoters of a stupid policy lacking of foresight the regrettable consequences of which are apparent.’ I take this opportunity to send you my highest regards. Dr. Ricardo Alarcon, Ambassador, Permanent Representative, Permanent Mission of Cuba at the United Nations”

2) Original Spanish text to follow by mail.

3) Gazdik unwilling furnish Department reply while still in draft form. Stated Hammarskjold will deliver reply Monday in person.2

Hawkins
  1. Source: National Archives and Records Administration, RG 59, Records of the Department of State, Central Files, 1967–69, AV 12. Confidential; Priority.
  2. Not found.