329. Telegram 34170 From the Department of State to the Embassy in the Dominican Republic1

34170. For the Ambassador from Meyer.

1. Now that the security situation in the Dominican Republic appears to be returning to normal I wonder if it might not be an appropriate moment to suggest to Balaguer the next time you see him that the international image and prestige of the GODR can be considerably enhanced if it now moves promptly to lift restrictions against political opposition groups. If there is hard information linking any individuals with Caamano Deno, that is obviously another thing, but in the absence of such evidence it seems to us here that Balaguer would be well advised to move quickly to ease the situation.

Rogers
  1. Summary: Assistant Secretary of State for Inter-American Affairs Charles Meyer suggested to Ambassador Francis Meloy that he encourage President Joaquín Balaguer to lift restrictions against opposition groups in order to enhance the international image of the Dominican Republic.

    Source: National Archives, RG 59, Central Files, 1970–1973, POL 23–9 DOM REP. Secret; Stadis; Exdis. Drafted by Burke, cleared by Hurwith and Barnes, and approved by Meyer.