Foreign Relations of the United States 1977–1980; Volume XV; Central America, 1977–1980

390. Telegram From the Department of State to the Embassy in El Salvador¹

Washington, October 16, 1979, 2335Z

270716. For Ambassador Devine from Assistant Secretary Vaky. Subject: Contact With New Government. Ref: San Salvador 5889.²

1. S-Entire text

2. The Ambassador should seek an immediate appointment with Col. Gutierrez and/or other members of the governing junta and elicit comments about the evolving situation and their plans for reform and development. He should inquire how we can best support their programs. FYI, we find initial reporting of their intentions very hopeful and if such a trend continues, we expect to move vigorously to assist the new government. End FYI

3. During conversation with Col. Gutierrez, the Ambassador should comment that the points contained in the new government’s proclamations, such as dissolution of ORDEN and the amnesty for political prisoners, appear to us to be very positive. Ambassador should also point to other considerations which in our judgment would help the new government to consolidate its position nationally and internationally:

—Prompt implementation of measures designed to reverse past curtailment of fundamental rights accompanied by full publicity;

—Restraint in adoption of new security measures so as to avoid criticism of resort to abuses of previous regime;

—Public declaration of support from Church, political parties and professional and civic groups.

We would hope for quick public implementation of these steps. Also, those inclined to be skeptical that a Salvadoran Government with military participation will be looking for significant evidence that the Security Forces’ heavy-handed treatment of those viewed as being critical of the past regime has in fact ended. Also useful would be public declarations of support from political parties and other groups, though we understand that this is somewhat beyond the control of the new government.

4. You should request the new government to circulate a diplomatic note concerning continuing diplomatic relations as soon as possible. We expect to respond immediately.

5. FYI. We remain concerned that given the very progressive steps announced to date that the extreme left might find itself both threatened and challenged. We would appreciate any information pertaining to the reaction of the terrorist organizations and the popular front organizations, such as the BPR, to the new government and its emerging program. If the Government’s hopeful trend continues we expect to offer specific assistance in dealing with the extremist threat.³ End FYI.

Vance

1. Source: Department of State, Bureau of Inter-American Affairs, Nicaragua/El Salvador Working Files, Lot 81D64, El Salvador Telegrams, 10/79. Secret; Flash; Exdis.
2. Telegram 5889 from San Salvador, October 16, reported that Gutierrez and Majano temporarily headed the new Government of El Salvador and that a five-man governing junta was “supposed to be constituted” during the course of that day. (National Archives, RG 59, Central Foreign Policy File, P850081–2569)
3. See Document 392.