834.156/240
The Minister in Paraguay (Kreeck) to the Secretary of State
[Received March 3.]
Sir: With reference to the Asunción Port Concession, I have the honor to report that, during the week of January 10th, I had a long conversation with the President of the Republic in this regard.
At that time he definitely promised to give the matter immediate attention, and the following week was ready to go into the subject.
Therefore, in response to my telegraphic advice, Mr. H. C. Mitchell, the Asunción Port Concession Corporation’s representative in Buenos Aires, arrived here on Monday, January 24th, and an audience with the President was immediately arranged for him. The conferences during the week have resulted in absolute conformity and the assurance that the matter will be presented at the opening of Congress, with a request for quick action.
Congress is now sitting in special session, but it was deemed unwise to introduce the measure before it, inasmuch as the session was called primarily for the enactment of a new electoral law and the session is to close on the 31st of January. Sufficient time was therefore not available and, rather than have the matter held without action, the President advised that it be withheld for the regular session and its prompt introduction at that time, with his endorsement.
The Minister of Hacienda, in whose department the matter originates, is now in Buenos Aires, but upon his return it is the intention of the President to place the matter before the entire Cabinet and there secure its full approval, which should make for prompt action through the Congress. The President is very desirous that the work upon the project be commenced as quickly as possible and his support assures its definite success.
Mr. Mitchell is thoroughly satisfied and I am happy to report that this vexatious problem is agreeably arranged.
I have [etc.]