Foreign Relations of the United States, 1969–1976, Volume XXII, Panama, 1973–1976

45. Memorandum of Conversation¹

Washington, June 20, 1974, 2:10 p.m.

Ambassador Bunker called upon Senator Thurmond on Thursday, June 20 at 2:10 p.m. in order to report on developments in Panama Canal treaty negotiations. Present in addition to the principals were Deputy Assistant Secretary for Congressional Relations Kempton Jenkins, Richard Wyrough, Special Adviser, Office of Panamanian Affairs, Dr. James Lucier of Senator Helms’ office and an administrative assistant from Senator Thurmond’s office.

Ambassador Bunker referred to his earlier promise to keep Senator Thurmond informed of developments affecting Panama Canal treaty negotiations. He remarked that we have not yet begun substantive discussions but that we have reached agreement on the major issues embodied in the Joint Statement of Principles.

Senator Thurmond referred to his Resolution of March 29 and suggested that while many changes might be possible United States sovereignty must be retained. With regard to the Resolution he emphasized the ease with which he obtained the co-sponsors, that other senators told him subsequently that the Resolution reflects their view point, and that a treaty based upon the Principles would be defeated if presented to the Senate for its ratification.

Senator Thurmond referred to Panama’s unstable political record and minimized the importance of Panamanian nationalist pressures in favor of Panamanian sovereignty. He observed that General Torrijos was attempting to create political interest in a problem which lacked wide support in Panama. On the other hand he observed that he receives frequent expressions of concern from the Canal Zone over the direction which negotiations appear to be taking.

Senator Thurmond suggested the desirability of finding an alternative to the sovereignty solution embodied in current negotiations. He said that he would discuss several such proposals during the June 23 NBC T.V. program which will look at the canal question, and identified “home-rule” as one of these alternatives. He promised to list them for Ambassador Bunker by letter.²

In concluding the meeting Senator Thurmond referred to his role in helping to gain the election of the Administration. He commented that although he wishes to see it remain in office “it will lose if it submits a draft treaty as envisioned by the Joint Statement of Principles.”

In departing, Ambassador Bunker reaffirmed his intent to keep Senator Thurmond informed. The meeting adjourned at 2:20 p.m.

1. Source: National Archives, RG 59, Ambassador Bunker’s Correspondence, Lot 78D300, Box 3, Congress. Limited Official Use. Drafted by Wyrough. The meeting took place in Thurmond’s office. Sent to Kissinger under a June 21 covering memorandum from Bunker.
2. Not found.