12. Letter From the Special Representative for Interoceanic Canal Negotiations (Anderson) to President Nixon 1
It has been approximately nine years since I undertook to try to renegotiate our treaty relationships with the Republic of Panama. These responsibilities have included the Treaty of 1903, our rights to build a sea level canal at an appropriate time, and our military base rights and military operational rights within the Republic of Panama.
As you know, in 1967 the negotiators were able to draft agreements which the respective negotiating teams were prepared to present to their governments. For reasons well known to you, these draft agreements as approved by the negotiators on both sides were never submitted to the legislative bodies of either country.2
During this period of negotiating effort, as you know, I have served without monetary compensation but have contributed my efforts as a public service.
I do not know what the future holds for the relations between our country and Panama, but I do believe that it is highly desirable to [Page 34] arrive at new treaty relationships on all of the topics which we have under negotiation as early as possible.
After so many years, it might now be best if new points of view were brought to bear on the subjects. All of our efforts, as you well know, have been under the guidelines of the Presidents under whom I have served.
Believing, as I do, that these efforts should be pursued with diligence, and that perhaps new efforts by new people should be undertaken, I respectfully submit my resignation as Special Representative of the United States for Interoceanic Canal Negotiations, effective immediately.3
I can assure you that it has been a pleasure to work with you and the members of your Staff and with the officials of the State Department during the years I have been associated with these negotiations.
I am, with great respect,
Sincerely,
- Source: National Archives, RG 59, Ambassador Bunker’s Correspondence, Lot 78D300, Box 1, Nixon-Anderson Correspondence. No classification marking.↩
- In 1967, the United States and Panama were able to reach agreement on three treaties regarding the existing canal, the defense and neutrality of the existing canal, and a possible sea level canal. Before the treaties could be ratified, however, Panamanian President Marco Robles was defeated by Arnulfo Arias Madrid in the 1968 elections. Eleven days into Arias’ term, a coup led by General Omar Torrijos established a new government. For more information, see Foreign Relations, 1964–1968, vol. XXXI, South and Central America; Mexico, Documents 439, 442, and 449.↩
- President Nixon replied to Anderson on July 2, accepting the Ambassador’s resignation. (National Archives, RG 59, Ambassador Bunker’s Correspondence, Lot 78D300, Box 1, Basic Policy Documents 70–73)↩
- Anderson signed “Bob” above this typed signature.↩