List of Papers

(Unless otherwise specified, the correspondence is from or to officials in the Department of State.)

ADHESION OF THE UNITED STATES TO THE ANTI-WAR, NON-AGGRESSION AND CONCILIATION TREATY, SIGNED AT RIO DE JANEIRO, OCTOBER 10, 1933

[Page VI]
Date and number Subject Page
1934 Feb. 20 (28) To the Ambassador in Argentina (tel.)
Department’s understanding that the anti-war treaty is no longer open for signature and that non-signatory States may become parties only by adherence. Request for certified copy of the treaty.
1
Mar. 13 (207) From the Ambassador in Argentina
Transmittal of the certified copy as requested; Foreign Office confirmation of Department’s understanding.
1
Mar. 23 (228) From the Ambassador in Argentina
Foreign Office request that U. S. authorization for signature of the document of adhesion be expedited in view of scheduled meeting at which several other countries will sign.
2
Apr. 12 Memorandum by the Secretary of State
Conversation with the Argentine Ambassador, who was given reassurance of U. S. intention to sign the anti-war treaty and to cooperate with Argentina in urging acceptance by nonsignatory American States of certain other treaties.
2
Apr. 21 (68) From the Ambassador in Argentina (tel.)
Foreign Minister’s inquiry as to whether U. S. Ambassador will receive authorization to sign document of adhesion along Jwith other countries at ceremony to be held soon.
3
Apr. 23 (41) To the Ambassador in Argentina (tel.)
Information that anti-war treaty has been submitted to the Senate on the basis of Department’s construction of article V of the treaty; instructions to submit note of adhesion (text printed) to Foreign Ministry in the event that Ministry concurs in Department’s construction.
3
Apr. 24 (70) From the Ambassador in Argentina (tel.)
Foreign Ministry’s concurrence in Department’s construction of article V and hope that United States will adhere to treaty with other nations at ceremony on April 28.
4
Apr. 25 (43) To the Ambassador in Argentina (tel.)
Advice that President’s full power authorizing U. S. adhesion will be forwarded.
5
Apr. 27 (71) From the Ambassador in Argentina (tel.)
Advice that a note adhering to the Anti-War Pact has been submitted to the Foreign Minister.
5
Apr. 28 To the Argentine Minister for Foreign Affairs (tel.)
Congratulations on the occasion of signature of the Pact by 13 additional countries.
5
Apr. 30 From the Argentine Minister for Foreign Affairs (tel.)
Expression of gratitude for Secretary’s congratulatory telegram.
5
June 4 (13) From the Minister in Denmark (tel.)
Information that Argentine Minister desires U. S. cooperation in endeavoring to induce Denmark to become a signatory to the Pact; request for instructions.
6
June 9 (15) To the Minister in Denmark (tel.)
Instructions to inform Argentine Minister that Department will be in a more favorable position to express interest in Scandinavian ratification of the Pact after U. S. ratification has taken place.
6
June 21 (19) To the Minister in Denmark (tel.)
Advice of U. S. ratification of Pact and instructions to express U. S. belief in efficacy of Pact to the Danish Government.
(Similar instructions to Sweden and Norway.)
6
July 3 (95) From the Ambassador in Argentina (tel.)
List of countries whose adherence to the Pact has been obtained.
7
July 6 (61) To the Ambassador in Argentina (tel.)
Instructions to advise Foreign Minister that Anti-War Pact was ratified by the President on June 27.
7

AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE UNITED STATES AND OTHER POWERS FOR NONAPPLICATION OF MOST-FAVORED-NATION CLAUSE IN RESPECT OF CERTAIN MULTILATERAL ECONOMIC CONVENTIONS

[Page VII][Page VIII][Page IX]
Date and number Subject Page
1934 July 16 From the Director General of the Pan American Union
Information that the agreement was deposited with the Pan American Union July 15 and will remain open to the signature of all the states.
8
Sept. 8 Memorandum by the Assistant Secretary of State
Discussion of agreement with Belgian Chargé, who stated that he would suggest that his Government bring a resolution before the League of Nations Assembly recommending that members of the League should become parties to the agreement; draft of a possible resolution (text printed).
8
Sept. 10 (88) To the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Information concerning the Assistant Secretary’s conversation with the Belgian Chargé.
10
Sept. 12 (232) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Opinion that Economic Section of League Secretariat will promote signature of agreement; request for further information.
10
Sept. 13 (89) To the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Information requested in telegram No. 232, September 12.
11
Sept. 15 (239) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Indication that Economic Section is advancing on its own initiative the project of bringing agreement before the Assembly.
11
Sept. 18 (243) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Probability that Belgian representative will bring agreement before Second Committee of the Assembly at an early date.
12
Sept. 19 From the Belgian Chargé
Advice of efforts made by the Belgian delegate at Geneva to obtain League consideration of the Pan American agreement.
12
Sept. 19 (93) To the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Instructions to keep Department informed of developments in the matter of League attention to the agreement; expectation that United States will sign ad referendum September 20.
13
Sept. 20 Memorandum by the Chief of the Division of Western European Affairs to the Assistant Secretary of State
Telephone conversation with the Belgian Chargé, who repeated the information previously communicated to the Assistant Secretary on September 19.
13
Sept. 20 Agreement Concerning Nonapplication of Most-Favored-Nation Clause in Respect of Certain Multilateral Economic Conventions
Text signed at Washington.
14
Sept. 21 (256) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Report of developments in the matter of obtaining League endorsement of agreement, and request for definite advice of U. S. signature.
16
Sept. 21 (259) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Reiteration of request for confirmation of U. S. signature.
17
Sept. 21 (97) To the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Advice that agreement was signed by the United States September 20.
17
Sept. 22 (261) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Information that deliberations in Second Committee have closed and that U. S. signature of agreement was indicated in Committee’s final report.
17
Sept. 23 To All American Diplomatic Representatives in the American Republics, Except Brazil, Costa Rica, and Ecuador (circ. tel.)
Instructions to make informal representations in regard to report that Latin American States represented at Geneva have not shown the interest expected of them in connection with efforts being made to bring agreement to League’s attention.
(Footnote: Information concerning nature of replies received from American Missions in Bolivia, Honduras, Mexico, Nicaragua, Paraguay, Peru, and Venezuela.)
17
Sept. 23 (98) To the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Advice that it may be necessary to take a more positive position in the matter of obtaining favorable League action in order to prevent any result tending to hamper U. S. efforts to secure general signature of agreement.
18
Sept. 24 To the Belgian Chargé
Expression of appreciation for Belgian cooperation and assistance on the question of obtaining League support.
19
Sept. 24 (75) From the Chargé in Colombia (tel.)
Colombian failure to see any advantage to be derived for that country from the agreement.
19
Sept. 25 (160) From the Minister in Panama (tel.)
Panaman intention to sign the agreement and to endorse the movement at Geneva to obtain further signatures.
20
Sept. 25 (103) From the Chargé in Haiti (tel.)
Opinion that in view of a slight difference among Haitian officials in regard to interpretation of the agreement, Department may wish to discuss matter with the Haitian Fiscal Representative, who is at this time in Washington.
20
Sept. 25 (51) From the Minister in El Salvador (tel.)
Advice that although El Salvador has at present no representative at Geneva the proposition is well understood by the Foreign Office.
20
Sept. 26 (39) From the Chargé in the Dominican Republic (tel.)
Information that Dominican delegation to the League Assembly has been instructed to support Belgian delegation’s proposal.
21
Sept. 26 (484) From the Ambassador in Cuba (tel.)
Cuban support of the resolution before the League, and intention to sign the agreement.
21
Sept. 26 (93) From the Ambassador in Chile (tel.)
Information that Chilean delegation at Geneva will support the Belgian proposition.
21
Sept. 26 (273) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Advice that Second Committee’s report was adopted by the Assembly onfSeptember 26 and that Argentine delegate in the course of a speech called favorable attention to the agreement.
22
Sept. 27 (71) From the Chargé in Uruguay (tel.)
Explanation of Uruguayan view concerning deferment of signature to the agreement; information, however, that delegate at Geneva will support Belgian action.
22
Sept. 29 (285) To the Chargé in Uruguay
Instructions to discuss further with the Uruguayan Government the matter of its deferment of signature of the agreement, and to express U. S. appreciation for Uruguayan cooperation at Geneva.
22
Sept. 30 (172) From the Ambassador in Argentina (tel.)
Information that instructions will be sent to the Argentine delegate at Geneva to contact the U. S. Consul there for appropriate action at the first opportunity.
24
Oct. 6 (289) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Transmittal of section of the Second Committee’s report (text printed) referring to the Pan American agreement.
24
Oct. 9 (376) From the Minister in Guatemala
Advice that instructions will be given to the Guatemalan Minister in Washington to sign the agreement.
25
Oct. 10 (778) From the Chargé in Uruguay
Further discussion with the Uruguayan Government on the question of signing the agreement.
25
Oct. 17 From the Director General of the Pan American Union
Information that Cuba has signed the agreement ad referendum.
27
Nov. 9 (75) From the Chargé in Uruguay (tel.)
Request for Department’s views in connection with an inquiry by the Foreign Minister regarding article II of the agreement.
27
Nov. 10 (295) To the Chargé in Uruguay
Explanation of the object and intention of article II.
27
Nov. 27 (849) From the Chargé in Uruguay
Uruguayan view that it would be disadvantageous for that country to sign the agreement.
29
Nov. 28 (853) From the Chargé in Uruguay
Uruguayan belief that agreement should not be signed by that country until European countries of major economic importance have become participants.
29

CHACO DISPUTE BETWEEN BOLIVIA AND PARAGUAY

I. Efforts of the League of Nations To Settle the Dispute

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Date and number Subject Page
1934 Jan. 4 (132) From the Ambassador in Argentina
Transmittal of memorandum of conversation between the Secretary of State and the Argentine President and Foreign Minister, December 29, 1933, on the subject of the Chaco conflict (text printed); also of memorandum prepared by the League of Nations Commission on the Chaco (text printed) proposing bases upon which Bolivia and Paraguay might sign an agreement envisaging arbitral settlement of the Chaco dispute.
32
Jan. 4 (4) From the Ambassador in Argentina (tel.)
Communication sent to Secretary of State Hull (at Santiago): Message from the Bolivian Ministers to Argentina and Uruguay (text printed) advising of impasse created by Paraguay’s rejection of the League’s proposed conditions for arbitration in face of Bolivia’s acceptance, and expressing Bolivia’s desire for the Secretary’s pacific influence in the matter.
37
Jan. 4 (5) From the Ambassador in Argentina (tel.)
Communication to the Secretary of State reporting conversation with Foreign Minister Saavedra Lamas concerning importance of obtaining an extension of the Bolivian-Paraguayan armistice, which will terminate in 48 hours.
37
Jan. 5 (5) To the Ambassador in Argentina (tel.)
Instructions to express to the Argentine President the U. S. hope that Argentina will urge the Paraguayan Government to agree to a continuation of the armistice.
38
Jan. 8 (10) From the Ambassador in Argentina (tel.)
President Justo’s apparent reluctance to make further efforts toward bringing Paraguay into line for fear that continued rejections will impair his influence.
39
Jan. 11 (11) From the Ambassador in Argentina (tel.)
Advice that Argentina plans to inform Paraguay and Bolivia that Argentine efforts will be withdrawn unless the two countries will agree to accept the peace formula proposed to them by the League Commission; report of Bolivian hope that Argentina will stress the matter of arbitration as the cardinal point in the discussions.
40
Jan. 12 (3) From the Minister in Paraguay (tel.)
Paraguayan position as to extension of the armistice.
41
Jan. 13 (7) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Chaco Commission’s report to the Secretary General of the League, January 12 (text printed), of technical breakdown of its conciliatory efforts owing to expiration of the armistice, which Paraguay refused to prolong later than January 6.
41
Jan. 14 (13) From the Ambassador in Argentina (tel.)
Advice that Argentine Government’s attitude has changed and that it is now disposed to bring pressure to bear on Paraguay; also that Argentina will probably try to induce both parties to agree to a 6 months’ armistice.
43
Jan. 15 (6) From the Minister in Bolivia (tel.)
Bolivian desire for Brazilian participation in negotiations which are in progress at Buenos Aires.
43
Jan. 16 (2) To the Minister in Bolivia (tel.)
Information that misleading press reports have created the impression that the U. S. Government is actively participating in the negotiations at Buenos Aires; advice that United States would not feel warranted in making any suggestion in connection with Bolivian desire for Brazilian participation.
44
Jan. 16 (16) From the Ambassador in Argentina (tel.)
Telegram sent to the Secretary (on shipboard) reporting that, in accordance with his suggestion (infra) the Argentine Government has submitted a peace formula to the League Commission.
44
Jan. 17 (17) From the Ambassador in Argentina (tel.)
Telegram from Secretary Hull, January 14 (text printed), suggesting that Argentina insist on immediate armistice and arbitration; his request that this view be transmitted to President Justo and Foreign Minister Saavedra Lamas.
45
Jan. 18 (3219) From the Ambassador in Peru
Report that during Secretary Hull’s visit to Lima he was told by the Bolivian Minister in Peru that Bolivia was prepared to agree to prolongation of the armistice and to accept the arbitration formula proposed by the League.
46
Jan. 20 Memorandum by the Counselor to the American Delegation to the Seventh International Conference of American States of a Conversation With the Chilean Minister for Foreign Affairs
Chilean view that a revival of united action by the ABCP group might be contemplated but only if prior agreement could be had among themselves to adopt a firm attitude toward the belligerents; also that any efforts in this direction would depend almost entirely on Argentine willingness to cooperate.
47
Jan. 20 (9) From the Minister in Bolivia (tel.)
Summary of Bolivian observations concerning the Argentine peace formula.
47
Jan. 20 (17) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Resumé of report on the Chaco situation adopted by the League Council and accepted by Bolivia and Paraguay; Council’s request that the Chaco Commission resume its work in conjunction with the two contending parties.
48
Feb. 2 (27) From the Consul at Geneva (tel).
Summary of cablegram received by the League Secretariat from the Chaco Commission outlining the status quo between Bolivia and Paraguay.
49
Feb. 10 (10) From the Minister in Bolivia (tel.)
Advice that Bolivia will reply, in answer to a Paraguayan proposal received through the League Commission, that an agreement to arbitrate must be the first consideration and not security measures as proposed by Paraguay.
50
Feb. 13 (11) From the Minister in Bolivia (tel.)
Further information in regard to Bolivian reply; terms of counterproposal offered by Bolivia.
50
Feb. 14 (22) To the Ambassador in Argentina (tel.)
Instructions to ascertain League Commission’s opinion of Paraguayan proposal to Bolivia and Bolivian counterproposal.
51
Feb. 18 (34) From the Ambassador in Argentina (tel.)
Foreign Minister’s opinions in regard to the Bolivian counterproposal.
51
Feb. 23 (36) From the Ambassador in Argentina (tel.)
Summary of a draft treaty which the Chaco Commission presented on February 22 to Bolivian and Paraguayan representatives.
52
Undated [Rec’d Feb. 23] From the President of the League of Nations Chaco Commission (tel.)
Commission’s decision to hand a copy of the draft treaty to the U. S. Ambassador in Argentina.
53
Feb. 24 (35) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Resume of Chaco Commission’s report to the Secretary General concerning presentation of draft treaty to the belligerents; advice that the Secretary General has urged support of the Commission’s proposals by Argentina, Chile, Peru, Uruguay, Brazil, Great Britain, France, and Italy, and requests U. S. Government’s views as to what action it may take.
54
Feb. 25 (3) To the Minister in Bolivia (tel.)
Instructions to transmit fullest information available as to Bolivian attitude regarding Commission’s proposal.
(Footnote: Same instructions sent to the Minister in Paraguay, February 25.)
55
Feb. 25 (18) To the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Inquiry as to Brazilian attitude toward proposal and as to whether Brazil would be disposed to press for Bolivian acceptance.
55
Feb. 25 (23) To the Ambassador in Chile (tel.)
Instructions to ascertain what action Government contemplates taking in support of proposal.
(Footnote: Same telegram, February 25, to Peru and]Uruguay.)
56
Feb. 25 (29) To the Ambassador in Argentina (tel.)
Request for advice concerning Argentine disposition toward proposal and whether Argentina is considering bringing pressure to bear upon the Paraguayan Government should that Government prove reluctant to accept the proposal.
56
Feb. 26 To the President of the League of Nations Chaco Commission (tel.)
Expression of gratitude for Commission’s courtesy in making a copy of the draft treaty available to the U. S. Ambassador in Argentina; U. S. hope that Commission will be successful in its peace efforts.
57
Feb. 26 (36) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Advice that Secretary General has received word that France and Great Britain are making strong supporting recommendations to the Bolivian and Paraguayan Governments.
57
Feb. 26 (30) From the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Information that Brazilian Government considers the League formula a fair basis for peaceful solution but at present is hesitant about offering any suggestions to the two parties.
57
Feb. 27 (14) From the Minister in Bolivia (tel.)
Advice that Bolivian attitude toward peace proposal is generally favorable.
58
Feb. 27 (30) To the Ambassador in Argentina (tel.)
Instructions to point out to the Foreign Minister, if believed advisable, that message of February 26 to President of the Chaco Commission does not “approve” proposal, but expresses U. S. hope that the Commission’s peace efforts will be successful.
58
Feb. 27 (20) From the Minister in Uruguay (tel.)
Advice that Uruguayan President has expressed to the Presidents of Paraguay and Bolivia the wish that the proposal may lead to definitive peace.
58
Feb. 27 (44) : From the Ambassador in Argentina (tel.)
Foreign Minister’s pessimistic views as to success of Commission’s formula.
59
Feb. 27 (13) From the Minister in Paraguay (tel.)
Information that the proposal as submitted will be rejected by Paraguay.
60
Feb. 28 (15) From the Minister in Bolivia (tel.)
Expectation that replies of Bolivia and Paraguay will be only the beginning of the present phase of negotiations.
60
Feb. 28 (26) From the Ambassador in Chile (tel.)
Information that Foreign Minister has instructed his Legations in Bolivia and Paraguay to recommend acceptance of the proposal; opinion, however, in view of his general comments, that Foreign Minister will not give effective support.
60
Mar. 1 (25) From the Ambassador in Peru (tel.)
Foreign Minister’s suggestion that the Commission’s proposal be reinforced by effective prohibition of imports of war supplies into Bolivia and Paraguay,
61
Mar. 3 (27) From the Ambassador in Chile (tel.)
Advice that no Chilean action in regard to Paraguayan rejection of the formula will be considered prior to the early part of the coming week.
62
Mar. 4 (15) From the Minister in Paraguay (tel.)
Information that official Paraguayan reply to the Commission virtually refuses the peace proposal.
63
Mar. 4 (48) From the Ambassador in Argentina (tel.)
Message from President of the Commission stating that Paraguayan reply clearly closes the door to future negotiations on the basis of the draft treaty; outline of Paraguayan counter-offer.
63
Mar. 5 (18) From the Minister in Bolivia (tel.)
Advice that Foreign Minister Calvo has tendered his resignation because of a disagreement regarding Government’s reply.
64
Mar. 6 (19) From the Minister in Bolivia (tel.)
Summary of Bolivian reply to Commission.
64
Mar. 7 (52) From the Ambassador in Argentina (tel.)
Commission’s inquiry of Bolivia, on behalf of Paraguay, as to its attitude toward acceptance of the Paraguayan counter-offer as a basis for discussion of Bolivian reply of March 6 to the Commission.
64
Mar. 13 (42) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Commission’s announcement of its departure for Europe on March 15 in view of breakdown in negotiations.
65
Apr. 30 (237) From the Minister in Switzerland (tel.)
Conversation with the Chairman of the Commission and with the Bolivian delegate at Geneva regarding Commission’s report on the Chaco negotiations; request for information as to validity of reports that the United States fe considering taking some independent action in the Chaco matter.
65
Apr. 30 (142) To the Minister in Switzerland, at Geneva (tel.)
Information that reports of U. S. departure from its previous policy in the Chaco dispute are wholly without foundation.
66
May 19 (83) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Resolution adopted by the League Council, May 19 (text printed), concerning further efforts for settlement of the Chaco matter.
66
May 31 (115) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Summary of Council meeting during which Bolivian and Paraguayan representatives reiterated their previous arguments, and Bolivian delegate requested Council to deal with the matter under article 15 of the League Covenant.
67
June 1 (122) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Information that Council has acceded to Bolivian request to deal with the dispute under article 15 of the Covenant.
69
June 11 (158) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Advice that Bolivia has formally requested that consideration of the dispute under article 15 be referred to the Assembly.
69
Aug. 27 (219) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Conversation with Secretary General Avenol, who inquired as to probable U. S. attitude toward participation on a committee to be appointed by the forthcoming Assembly to discuss measures for settlement of the Chaco conflict. Advice that similar approach will be made to Brazil.
70
Aug. 30 (87) To the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Explanation of view as to the inadvisability of U. S. participation on the committee suggested by Avenol.
71
Aug. 30 (103) To the Ambassador in Argentina (tel.)
Request that U. S. views in regard to committee proposed by Avenol be communicated to the Foreign Minister.
72
Aug. 30 (117) To the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Instructions to advise Foreign Minister of U. S. views as expressed to the Argentine Foreign Office and to state that Department would welcome Brazilian views in the matter.
73
Aug. 31 (148) From the Ambassador in Argentina (tel.)
Information that Foreign Minister has expressed concurrence in the Department’s views.
74
Sept. 1 (220) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Conversation with Avenol regarding the necessity of reconciling the League’s position in the Chaco matter with the efforts of the American States.
74
Sept. 1 (203) From the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Brazilian willingness to cooperate with the United States in dealing with League intervention in the Chaco question.
77
Sept. 6 (208) From the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Brazilian refusal to accept a position on the League committee as suggested by Bolivia.
78
Sept. 7 (223) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Council’s adoption of a resolution transferring the Chaco dispute to the Assembly.
78
Sept. 7 (224) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Outline of temporary League plan for handling the Chaco matter with a view toward collaborating with the present American peace efforts at Buenos Aires.
79
Sept. 20 (94) To the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
U. S. unwillingness to accept membership on any League commission which may be appointed to deal with the Chaco problem.
80
Sept. 21 (96) To the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Authorization to make informal statement to Avenol in clarification of Department’s view toward League resumption of negotiations.
80
Sept. 25 (268) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Statement of Bolivian delegate at meeting of the Sixth Committee, September 24 (excerpt printed), which has been interpreted in Geneva as announcing termination of the Buenos Aires negotiations.
80
Sept. 25 (269) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Conversation with Avenol regarding the action contemplated by the League as a result of the Bolivian declarations.
81
Sept. 25 (271) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Chief points of Bolivia’s present policy vis-a-vis the League’s handling of the Chaco matter.
83
Sept. 26 (94) From the Ambassador in Chile (tel.)
Chilean desire for active U. S. collaboration in the Chaco committee proposed by the League.
84
Sept. 26 (274) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Draft resolution adopted by the Sixth Committee, September 26 (excerpt printed), recommending the formation of a Chaco committee.
85
Sept. 27 (275) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
League inquiry regarding U. S. participation in proposed committee.
86
Sept. 27 (244) From the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Advice that Brazil has been invited to join the committee; request for information as to what line of procedure is contemplated by the United States.
87
Sept. 27 (66) From the Minister in Bolivia (tel.)
Bolivian desire for U. S. participation in the committee.
87
Sept. 27 (277) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Assembly’s adoption of the resolution establishing a committee on the Chaco matter.
87
Sept. 27 (99) To the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Instructions to state confidentially and informally that although unable to participate in the committee, the United States will adopt a friendly and cooperative attitude.
88
Sept. 28 (280) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Advice of Uruguayan desire that solution of the Chaco conflict be entrusted to the American Governments on the League Committee.
88
Sept. 28 (25) To the Minister in Bolivia (tel.)
Instructions to repeat to the Bolivian Government the U. S. Government’s decision in regard to participation in the Committee, and to request official confirmation of the fact that Bolivia considers the mediation negotiations at Buenos Aires as being terminated.
88
Sept. 28 (70) To the Ambassador in Chile (tel.)
Instructions to communicate to the Foreign Minister the U. S. position regarding collaboration in the Committee.
89
Sept. 28 (116) To the Ambassador in Argentina (tel.)
Instructions to communicate to Foreign Minister the U. S. attitude toward membership in the Committee.
90
Sept. 29 (139) To the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Instructions to communicate to the Foreign Minister substance of a memorandum received from the Bolivian Minister in regard to the recent declarations made by the Bolivian delegate to the League; request for opinion as to whether Brazil would be disposed to appoint a representative to cooperate in a League subcommittee of American States.
90
Sept. 30 (170) From the Ambassador in Argentina (tel.)
Advice that Argentine attitude toward the League Committee will be one of passive observance.
91
Oct. 1 (253) From the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Opinion that Brazil would be reluctant to modify the attitude it has consistently maintained in regard to membership on any committee organized by the League.
92
Oct. 1 (254) From the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Advice that Foreign Minister has confirmed the impression reported in telegram No. 253, October 1.
93
Oct. 1 (255) From the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Foreign Minister’s views on the question of League activity in American conflicts and his suggestion that the United States consider the desirability of making some sort of pronouncement stressing the importance attached to the settlement of American problems in America.
93
Oct. 1 (256) From the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Report of Paraguayan and Bolivian appeals to the Brazilian Government regarding the latter’s acceptance of a place on the League Committee.
95
Oct. 2 (258) From the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Receipt of information as to Argentine Foreign Minister’s general views toward the Committee, as communicated to the Brazilian Government.
96
Oct. 2 (69) From the Minister in Bolivia (tel.)
Report of conversation with Foreign Minister, who indicated sympathy with League’s efforts.
97
Oct. 2 (143) To the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Instructions to inform the Foreign Minister of U. S. accord with views reported in Ambassador’s telegram No. 255, October 1, but opinion as to the inadvisability at present of making suggested pronouncement.
97
Oct. 3 (26) To the Minister in Bolivia (tel.)
Department’s belief that no further representations should be made to either Bolivia or Paraguay until the course which will be pursued by the League Committee can be ascertained.
(Footnote; Similar telegram to the Minister in Paraguay.)
98
Oct. 3 (144) To the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Information concerning U. S. policy with respect to membership on a League subcommittee on the Chaco; Paraguayan unyielding attitude toward participation on the League subcommittee.
98
Oct. 5 (44) From the Minister in Paraguay (tel.)
Conversation with President Ayala regarding the Paraguayan reply to be made to the League.
100
Oct. 5 (262) From the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Conversation with Bolivian Minister in regard to U. S. attitude toward accepting membership on League commissions.
100
Oct. 24 (301) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Avenol’s advice of a Bolivian report of a U. S. démarche at La Paz that, should the League’s efforts not succeed, some attempt should be made in America to arrive at conciliation before the issuance of the Assembly’s report in November.
101
Oct. 26 (105) To the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Instructions orally to inform Avenol that the United States has made no démarche at La Paz or elsewhere in the sense reported.
101
Nov. 13 (317) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Report of developments in the meeting of the Chaco Committee of Twenty-two on November 12 concerning adoption of a resolution (text printed) inviting U. S. participation in the work of the Committee.
102
Nov. 13 (318) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Substance of letter from Avenol in which he requested U. S. views as to the most opportune moment and most suitable form for collaboration with the Committee.
103
Nov. 14 (113) To the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Instructions as to statements to be included in the reply to Avenol’s letter reiterating U. S. position of nonparticipation.
104
Nov. 14 (169) To the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Instructions to inform the Foreign Minister as to the contents of U. S. reply to Avenol concerning collaboration with the Chaco Committee and to request Brazilian Government’s view regarding similar invitation.
104
Nov. 16 (322) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
U. S. reply, November 15 (text printed), to Avenol’s letter of November 13.
106
Nov. 16 (318) From the Chargé in Brazil (tel.)
Advice that Brazilian reply will assert the principle that cooperation with a League committee under any conditions would be impossible for Brazil as a nonmember of the League; also that Foreign Minister plans to send a personal telegram to Harold Butler of the International Labor Bureau in regard to possible initiation of U. S.-Brazilian mediatory efforts.
107
Nov. 17 (320) From the Chargé in Brazil (tel.)
Telegram, November 16 (text printed), sent to Brazilian Minister in Switzerland to be delivered to Butler.
108
Nov. 19 (321) From the Chargé in Brazil (tel.)
Information that Butler has sailed from New York and that Foreign Minister will make no attempt to convey his message by radio to the ship; opinion that present Brazilian move might be construed as an attempt to speak for the United States; request for Department’s comment.
109
Nov. 19 (334) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Avenol’s inquiry as to U. S. attitude toward League’s adoption of a formula seeking U. S. and Brazilian participation or cooperation on a Neutral Supervisory Commission provided for in the Chaco Committee’s report.
110
Nov. 21 (173) To the Chargé in Brazil (tel.)
Improbability that Foreign Minister’s proposed action will result in a misunderstanding in Geneva in view of the fact that the U. S. position has been clearly communicated to the League.
111
Nov. 21 (341) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Conversation with Avenol regarding reports that Paraguay will refuse the Committee’s report and that the Government, having declared League efforts to be a failure, will turn to American mediation.
111
Nov. 22 (121) To the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Instructions to state informally to Avenol that the United States is unable to assume a definite position in regard to any proposal until such proposal is presented in a tangible, concrete, and official form.
112
Nov. 23 (325) From the Chargé in Brazil (tel.)
Conversation with Secretary General of the Foreign Office concerning the Bolivian reaction to the Paraguayan delay in accepting the Chaco report.
112
Nov. 24 (354) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Communication from Avenol, November 24 (text printed), requesting U. S. appointment of a representative on the Neutral Supervisory Commission.
113
Nov. 24 (356) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Communication from Avenol, November 24 (text printed), requesting U. S. participation in the deliberations of an advisory committee whose seat shall be at Geneva.
114
Dec. 1 (176) To the Chargé in Brazil (tel.)
Instructions to communicate to Foreign Minister contents of the U. S. replies to be made to the League invitations and to transmit Brazilian views to the Department.
114
Dec. 3 (328) From the Chargé in Brazil (tel.)
Foreign Minister’s proposal that an effort be made to secure Bolivian and Paraguayan consent to the immediate cessation of hostilities in return for Brazil’s agreement to participate in the League’s peace plan, and his request that U. S. replies to the League be delayed until replies to his proposal are received from Bolivia and Paraguay. Brazilian desire that United States confer full powers upon its representative on the Neutral Supervisory Commission.
117
Dec. 4 (177) To the Chargé in Brazil (tel.)
Instructions to state to Foreign Minister that the United States will withhold its official reply to the League until the latter part of the week; explanation of U. S. inability to grant full powers to its representative on the Commission.
119
Dec. 4 (329) From the Chargé in Brazil (tel.)
Foreign Minister’s emphasis of the view that both American and Brazilian representatives on the Commission should be given full powers; indication that Bolivia will make a favorable reply to proposal regarding cessation of hostilities.
120
Dec. 4 (30) To the Minister in Bolivia (tel.)
Instructions to communicate to Foreign Minister contents of the U. S. replies to the League invitations, and also to transmit any information available as to the nature of the reply which Bolivia may make to the League recommendations.
121
Dec. 5 (112) From the Chargé in Chile (tel.)
Chilean approval of U. S.-Brazilian policy in regard to cooperation with special commissions of the League.
122
Dec. 5 (84) From the Minister in Bolivia (tel.)
Foreign Minister’s views regarding U. S. replies; opinion that Bolivian reply to the League will be a brief acceptance.
122
Dec. 5 (50) From the Chargé in Paraguay (tel.)
Conversation with President and Foreign Minister, who indicated that Paraguayan reply to the League will amount to a practical rejection of the plan.
123
Dec. 6 (125) To the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
U. S. reply (text printed) accepting with reservation League invitation of November 24 for U. S. appointment of a representative on the Neutral Supervisory Commission.
124
Dec. 6 (126) To the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
U. S. reply (text printed) declining League invitation of November 24 relative to U. S. collaboration in the work of the Advisory Committee.
125
Dec. 6 (181) To the Chargé in Brazil (tel).
Advice that information received to date indicates that neither Bolivia nor Paraguay is prepared to accept the condition imposed by Brazil; instructions to express to Foreign Minister U. S. regret at its inability to adopt the Brazilian suggestion as a precedent to collaboration with the League.
126
Dec. 7 (336) From the Chargé in Brazil (tel.)
Information that Foreign Minister has received a definite reply from Bolivia accepting his proposal; his statement that if Paraguay did not reply within about a week he would inform her of his intention to accept the League’s invitation in terms similar to those of U. S. replies.
127
Dec. 11 (381) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Request for instructions as to the policy to be pursued by the United States in regard to attendance at the Advisory Committee sessions.
127
Dec. 11 (128) To the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Advice that until Paraguayan reply to the League report is determined upon, it would be desirable for the United States to refrain from having a representative at any of the Advisory Committee’s meetings.
129
Dec. 13 (386) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Summary of Advisory Committee’s meeting held on December 12.
129
Dec. 19 (393) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Advice that Paraguayan reply has been received by the Secretary General and is considered as tantamount to a rejection; also that Brazil has made a reply in substantially the same terms as those of the United States.
132
Dec. 21 (394) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Telegram, December 20 (text printed), from the Advisory Committee to the Paraguayan Government, explaining in detail the recommendations included in the League’s report.
132
Dec. 21 (396) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Resume” of last meetings held by the Advisory Committee before termination of its session.
134

II. Efforts of American Nations To Settle the Dispute

[Page XXI][Page XXII][Page XXIII][Page XXIV][Page XXV][Page XXVI][Page XXVII][Page XXVIII][Page XXIX]
Date and number Subject Page
1934 June 26 From the Peruvian Ambassador
Invitation to U. S. Government to cooperate with the Governments of Colombia and Peru, together with Argentina, Brazil, Chile, and Mexico in the promotion of a conference for the purpose of initiating direct negotiations between Bolivia and Paraguay; advice that the plan is acceptable to Bolivia.
135
July 3 (75) To the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Instructions to advise Department as to whether Brazil has received an invitation from Colombia and Peru similar to that received by the United States; also to ascertain what the Brazilian views may be regarding an inter-American conference or a possible move by Argentina, Brazil, and the United States acting in cooperation with the League Council.
135
July 6 (129) From the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Brazilian unwillingness to initiate any new move while the Chaco matter is in the hands of the League.
137
July 11 To the Peruvian Ambassador
U. S. approval of the initiative taken by the Colombian and Peruvian Governments but belief that the proposed conference should be postponed in view of Paraguay’s nonacceptance of the invitation to participate.
139
July 12 The Argentine Conciliation Formula
Text of plan for solution of the Paraguayan-Bolivian conflict.
140
July 14 (80) To the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Advice that the United States has agreed to cooperate with Argentina in an effort to urge Bolivian acceptance of the conciliation formula; instructions to express U. S. hope for Brazilian cooperation in this U. S.-Argentine effort.
142
July 14 (64) To the Ambassador in Argentina (tel.)
Advice that Argentine Ambassador has been informed of U. S. willingness to support the Argentine formula and of the effort being made to gain Brazilian cooperation.
144
July 16 (135) From the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Brazilian action urging Bolivian acceptance of the Argentine formula.
145
July 16 (10) To the Minister in Bolivia (tel.)
Instructions to make oral representations to the Foreign Minister expressing hope that the formula will be accepted by Bolivia.
145
July 17 (66) To the Ambassador in Argentina (tel.)
U. S. belief that the present negotiations can be successful only by making it possible for Bolivia to suggest such modifications to the formula as it may desire, provided that they do not change the essential features of the formula as drafted.
147
July 17 (82) To the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Instructions to express to Foreign Minister U. S. gratification at Brazilian willingness to cooperate in support of the formula and to advise Minister that the United States has made representations to the Bolivian Government similar to those made by Brazil.
148
July 18 (11) To the Minister in Bolivia (tel.)
Expression of U. S. views in regard to the formula set forth in the hope that Bolivia may be persuaded to adopt a favorable attitude.
149
July 19 (41) From the Minister in Bolivia (tel.)
Advice that formula is being studied by Bolivia and that Foreign Minister has inquired as to the U. S. view toward Bolivian President’s proposal that the Chaco question be placed under the auspices of an inter-American Congress.
150
July 19 (101) From the Ambassador in Argentina (tel.)
Information that Foreign Minister has received a provisional response from Bolivia and that a more considered answer is expected shortly; his belief that matter should be given some publicity now in order that the power of all American public opinion might be exerted on Bolivia.
150
July 19 (42) From the Minister in Bolivia (tel.)
Report of developments in the matter of Bolivian consideration of the formula.
151
July 20 (12) To the Minister in Bolivia (tel.)
Instructions to inform Foreign Minister, with a view to clearing up any misapprehension, that the formula was presented to Bolivia on the same day that presentation was made to Brazil and the United States.
152
July 20 (68) To the Ambassador in Argentina (tel.)
Instructions to express to Foreign Minister the sympathetic attitude of the U. S. Government toward his peace efforts and to communicate to him the U. S. view on the matter of publicizing the formula; request for clarification of phraseology in telegram No. 101, July 19.
153
July 21 (102) From the Ambassador in Argentina (tel.)
Explanation of the phrase in question.
154
July 21 (43) From the Minister in Bolivia (tel.)
Probability that Bolivian reply will be ready by July 23; Foreign Minister’s desire that further points of conciliation between the two parties be elaborated by at least nine countries after agreement in principle has been reached.
154
July 23 (103) From the Ambassador in Argentina (tel.)
Foreign Minister’s general accord with Department’s views and his explanation in regard to publicity for the formula; advice that Chilean and Peruvian Governments as well as the League have been informed by the Foreign Minister that exploratory conversations with Bolivia and Paraguay are in progress.
155
July 24 From the Bolivian Minister for Foreign Affairs to the Bolivian Minister in Argentina
Text of Bolivian reply to the Argentine proposal.
156
July 26 (70) To the Ambassador in Argentina (tel.)
U. S. views and observations in connection with the Bolivian reply, and instructions to ascertain Foreign Minister’s attitude toward reply.
157
July 26 (90) To the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Communication of U. S. views with respect to Bolivian reply; desire for Brazilian observations in the matter.
158
July 27 (150) From the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Expectation that Brazilian views will be obtained within a few days.
160
July 28 (107) From the Ambassador in Argentina (tel.)
Report of conversation with the Foreign Minister during which he expressed his opinions in regard to the Bolivian reply.
160
July 30 (152) From the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Telegram from the Foreign Minister to the Embassy in Washington (text printed) embodying the Brazilian views on the reply made by Bolivia.
162
July 31 (109) From the Ambassador in Argentina (tel.)
Foreign Minister’s transmittal of messages to the Paraguayan President and his anxiety to accomplish something definite before the League Council meeting in September.
162
Aug. 1 (73) To the Ambassador in Argentina (tel.)
Information from the Bolivian Minister in clarification of a statement in his Government’s reply to the effect that Bolivia must be given an outlet to the Paraguay River as a sine qua non.
(Footnote: Similar telegram to the Ambassador in Brazil, August 1.)
163
Aug. 3 (155) From the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Advice that the Argentine Ambassador has informed the Foreign Office that his Government is not in favor of acceding to the Bolivian request that six other states be invited to join in the mediation, that it should be restricted to the original three until definite agreement has been reached; request for statement of U. S. intentions in regard to the matter.
163
Aug. 4 (96) To the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Information that the United States agrees with the Argentine view in regard to limitation of nations cooperating in the peace movement.
164
Aug. 6 (160) From the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Advice that Brazil is in complete accord with U. S. views.
165
Aug. 7 (100) To the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Expression of U. S. appreciation of Brazilian views; instructions to ascertain Foreign Minister’s attitude toward extension of U. S. and Brazilian friendly offices to Chile and Paraguay in an effort to avert the threatened break in relations between the two countries.
167
Aug. 9 (167) From the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Advice that Foreign Minister has agreed that once the conciliation formula is accepted in principle, the six other powers will be invited.
167
Aug. 10 (103) To the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Receipt of Chilean views “concerning suggested plan for prevention of a rupture of relations between that Government and Paraguay.
168
Aug. 10 (169) From the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Argentine report of Bolivian and Paraguayan acceptance of the formula in principle, and Brazilian efforts for adjustment of the Chilean-Paraguayan dissension.
169
Aug. 11 (104) To the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Advice of Paraguayan press statement regarding that Government’s position in relation to the Chilean Government, and of the Argentine Foreign Minister’s effort to mediate the dispute.
169
Aug. 13 (122) From the Ambassador in Argentina (tel.)
Bolivian Minister’s intimation that Bolivian acceptance of the Argentine formula hinges upon pre-determination of the scope of arbitration.
170
Aug. 15 (124) From the Ambassador in Argentina (tel.)
Foreign Minister’s indication that he is certain of Paraguayan acceptance of the formula.
171
Aug. 16 (175) From the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Advice of present unfavorable Bolivian and Paraguayan attitudes toward bases for conciliation.
171
Aug. 17 (126) From the Ambassador in Argentina (tel.)
Meeting with Foreign Minister, Brazilian Ambassador, and the Bolivian Minister during which the latter voiced his Government’s opinion that a “method” for conciliation must be worked out before any progress could be made toward arbitration.
172
Aug. 17 (176) From the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Bolivian memorandum to the Foreign Office stating that Bolivia makes Paraguayan recognition of the Bolivian zone on the Paraguay River a fundamental condition precedent to acceptance of the formula; Foreign Minister’s request for U.S.’ views regarding the demand.
173
Aug. 17 (127) From the Ambassador in Argentina (tel.)
Meeting with the Foreign Minister and the Brazilian Ambassador during which a Paraguayan note was received stating that Paraguay had accepted the formula without reservations.
174
Aug. 18 (128) From the Ambassador in Argentina (tel.)
Advice of agreement reached between Foreign Minister, Brazilian Ambassador, and U.S. Ambassador to suggest to their Governments that pressure be brought on Bolivia to accept the formula unreservedly.
174
Aug. 18 (108) To the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Instructions to inform the Foreign Minister of the Department’s desire for clarification of the apparent conflict in Bolivian statements concerning acceptance of the formula before expressing any final views on the subject; suggested course of action for obtaining a clear statement of attitude from both Bolivia and Paraguay.
174
Aug. 18 (177) From the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Advice that Brazil has requested Bolivia to accept the original seven bases for conciliation and to leave all matters of a technical nature to be decided upon by the conciliation commission.
175
Aug. 20 (91) To the Ambassador in Argentina (tel.)
Information of conversations held with the Argentine Ambassador and with the Bolivian Minister; U. S. suggestion as to course of procedure to be followed in obtaining Bolivian acceptance of the formula without reservations, and instructions to report Foreign Minister’s probable reactions to such a suggestion before initiating conversation with him.
176
Aug. 20 (110) To the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Department’s belief that no secret commitments should be given Bolivia as to support of her claims prior to commencement of the conciliation conversations; request for Brazilian views regarding U. S. suggested course of action outlined in telegram No. 108, August 18.
178
Aug. 21 (132) From the Ambassador in Argentina (tel.)
Report of conversations with Foreign Minister, Brazilian Ambassador, and Bolivian Minister concerning Paraguayan unconditional acceptance of the proposal and probable Bolivian position.
179
Aug. 21 (181) From the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Brazilian agreement with U. S. suggested course of action and concurrence with U. S. position in regard to the matter of making no commitments prior to conciliation negotiations.
179
Aug. 22 (112) To the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
U. S. view as to procedure to be pursued at this time looking toward possible arbitration should conciliation prove impracticable.
180
Aug. 23 (137) From the Ambassador in Argentina (tel.)
Report of meeting with Foreign Minister and Brazilian Ambassador during which the former made a suggestion as to the action to be employed by the United States, Brazil, and Argentina at the two belligerent capitals.
180
Aug. 23 (17) To the Minister in Bolivia (tel.)
Instructions to advise Foreign Minister of Department’s understanding in regard to Bolivian insistence on an outlet to the River Paraguay; also to reiterate U. S. hope for Bolivian acceptance of the formula and for a definition of that Government’s attitude toward arbitration.
181
Aug. 24 (138) From the Ambassador in Argentina (tel.)
Argentine opinion that strong and immediate pressure should be brought to bear on Bolivia.
183
Aug. 25 (189) From the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Brazilian efforts to elicit a [clear-cut statement of position from Bolivia.
183
Aug. 25 (51) From the Minister in Bolivia (tel.)
Foreign Minister’s understanding that the United States and Brazil are disposed to support the Bolivian sine qua non condition, and his desire to know the U. S. view toward omission of the conciliation proceedings in the event of Paraguayan refusal of condition.
184
Aug. 27 (114) To the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Advice that the United States has made representations to Bolivia in the same sense as those made by Brazil.
184
Aug. 27 (139) From the Ambassador in Argentina (tel.)
Foreign Minister’s declaration (text printed) interpreting his Government’s view of the Bolivian attitude toward conciliation.
185
Aug. 27 (39) From the Minister in Paraguay (tel.)
Report of conversation with the President, who expressed his Government’s acquiescence in the Bolivian request for a port on the Paraguay River.
186
Aug. 29 (101) To the Ambassador in Argentina (tel.)
Advice of conversation held with the Bolivian Minister regarding the conciliation question; instructions to discuss substance of conversation with the Foreign Minister, emphasizing the Bolivian views on article 7 of the formula and the sine qua non matter.
187
Aug. 29 (142) From the Ambassador in Argentina (tel.)
Receipt of information that Brazil is in accord with Bolivian desire for an outlet to the Paraguay River; Foreign Minister’s communication of the Bolivian sine qua non to the Paraguayan Minister.
188
Aug. 31 (149) From the Ambassador in Argentina (tel.)
Account of conversation with Foreign Minister regarding developments in the Chaco matter.
188
Sept. 4 (204) From the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Advice of Brazilian telegram sent to La Paz requesting a definite statement from Bolivia as to her claims, and suggesting that Bolivia request the League to postpone action in connection with the application of article 15 of the League Covenant.
189
Sept. 4 (151) From the Ambassador in Argentina (tel.)
Conversation with Foreign Minister, Brazilian Ambassador, and Bolivian Minister in regard to Bolivia’s delay in reaching a decision on the peace formula.
189
Sept. 4 (118) To the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Advice that the United States has made a request to the Bolivian Minister in Washington similar to that made by Brazil to the Bolivian Foreign Minister.
190
Sept. 7 (106) To the Ambassador in Argentina (tel.)
Receipt of Bolivian suggestions for modification of the formula and transmittal of Department’s suggested amendment of article 7 (text printed); instructions to ascertain Foreign Minister’s view toward a League request that Argentina furnish an official statement regarding the imminence of a satisfactory settlement.
191
Sept. 7 (119) To the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Bolivian suggested modifications of the peace formula; instructions to make inquiry of Foreign Minister as to Brazilian views toward amendment of article 7 as suggested by the United States.
193
Sept. 9 (154) From the Ambassador in Argentina (tel.)
Foreign Minister’s conviction that Bolivian modifications offer a favorable basis for solution, and his belief that Bolivia would be willing to accept the Hague Tribunal in an arbitration; his views also regarding U. S. proposed amendment to article 7.
195
Sept. 10 (107) To the Ambassador in Argentina (tel.)
Instructions to obtain Foreign Minister’s interpretation of the formula as regards provision for simultaneous signature of an agreement for arbitration.
196
Sept. 12 (156) From the Ambassador in Argentina (tel.)
Foreign Minister’s view that signature of the formula would be simultaneous with Bolivian and Paraguayan conclusion of an agreement to arbitrate.
197
Sept. 12 (A 715 L. D. 1471) From the Salvadoran Minister for Foreign Affairs
Suggested proposal for obtaining Paraguayan and Bolivian acceptance of an armistice to last for at least a year.
198
Sept. 13 (157) From the Ambassador in Argentina (tel.)
Report of meeting with Foreign Minister, Brazilian Ambassador, and Paraguayan Minister during which the latter voiced his Government’s attitude toward the Bolivian modifications.
199
Sept. 13 (35) To the Minister in Paraguay (tel.)
Request for information as to the probable reaction of the Paraguayan Government to the Bolivian suggestions.
200
Sept. 13 (218) From the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Report of developments in the mediation efforts.
200
Sept. 14 (42) From the Minister in Paraguay (tel.)
Resume of conversation with the President in regard to the present peace negotiations.
202
Sept. 14 (109) To the Ambassador in Argentina (tel.)
Instructions to request of the Foreign Minister information as to any observations or suggestions which Paraguay intends to make if its unqualified acceptance of the formula is withdrawn.
203
Sept. 14 (125) To the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
U. S. hope that Brazil will reach no decision in regard to withdrawal from mediation until opportunity can be afforded for U. S.-Brazilian discussion of the situation.
204
Sept. 14 (221) From the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Report that Paraguay has stated that she wishes to withdraw her original acceptance in order to propose modifications; also that Argentine Foreign Minister is informing the League that his mediation is ended and that the solution is now in the hands of the League.
204
Sept. 15 (60) From the Minister in Bolivia (tel.)
Advice that Argentine Foreign Minister has confirmed that good offices of the mediators are virtually suspended out of consideration for League authority and pending League convenience.
206
Sept. 15 (226) From the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Foreign Minister’s view in regard to Bolivian failure to ask postponement of League action; transmittal of Argentine telegram (substance printed) explaining Foreign Minister’s action in placing the Chaco matter before the League.
206
Sept. 15 (224) From the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Assurance that Brazil will not withdraw from mediation without consulting the United States.
207
Sept. 15 (225) From the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Further assurance of Brazilian cooperation in the mediation.
208
Sept. 17 (161) From the Ambassador in Argentina (tel.)
Foreign Minister’s views and observations on the current status of the Chaco problem.
208
Sept. 17 (22) To the Minister in Bolivia (tel.)
Instructions to convey orally to the Foreign Minister U. S. inability to accept membership on any committee appointed by the League to deal with the Chaco problem, and unwillingness to consider that the present negotiations can be terminated unless the Bolivian and Paraguayan Governments so desire.
210
Sept. 17 (36) To the Minister in Paraguay (tel.)
Instructions to request of the President a frank statement of the Paraguayan position with regard to the situation which has developed at Geneva and the Bolivian suggested modifications of the Argentine conciliation formula.
211
Sept. 17 (228) From the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Report of developments in mediation efforts.
213
Sept. 18 (111) To the Ambassador in Argentina (tel.)
Instructions to express to Foreign Minister the U. S. belief that a peaceful solution of the Chaco problem is more likely to be obtained through the cooperation of some or all of the American Republics than by a renewal of League activity; also that should the present negotiations be amalgamated with negotiations under League jurisdiction, the United States would be unable to continue as a participant in mediation efforts.
214
Sept. 18 (130) To the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Transmission of text of telegram No. Ill, September 18, and instructions to inform Foreign Minister of contents.
216
Sept. 19 (63) From the Minister in Bolivia (tel.)
Foreign Minister’s regret that the United States and Brazil will not form part of a committee appointed by the League, and his hope that the two countries will continue the negotiations.
216
Sept. 20 (43) From the Minister in Paraguay (tel).
Transmittal of statement prepared by President Ayala (text printed) setting forth the Paraguayan position in detail.
217
Sept. 21 (133) To the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Instructions to advise Foreign Minister fully of President Ayala’s statement of September 20 and of Bolivian Foreign Minister’s statement of September 19; also to request Brazilian views as to the course which should be pursued in the negotiations.
218
Sept. 24 (167) From the Ambassador in Argentina (tel.)
Foreign Minister’s appreciation of Department’s viewpoint and transmission of a memorandum (substance printed) containing his views on the situation.
219
Sept. 25 (242) From the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Brazilian views as requested in telegram No. 133, September 21.
220
Oct. 5 (34) To the Minister in El Salvador
Instructions to deliver U. S. reply (text printed) to Foreign Minister’s note of September 12, and to inform him of U. S. belief that any further specific peace initiative at present might tend to confuse the situation.
221
Oct. 9 (151) To the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Instructions to explain to Foreign Minister why the United States does not desire at this time to take the lead in any possible resumption of mediation negotiations.
222
Oct. 10 (272) From the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Advice of Brazil’s full agreement with every point raised by the Department.
224
Oct. 10 (277) From the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Foreign Office telegram to the Brazilian Embassy in Chile (text printed) giving detailed information of Brazil’s position in peace negotiations.
225
Oct. 17 (288) From the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Advice of proposal that informal exploratory conversations be begun between the Bolivian and Paraguayan Ministers, the Foreign Minister, and the U. S. and Argentine Ambassadors in order to ascertain whether the two belligerents can come to an agreement on a formula.
225
Oct. 18 (156) To the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Information that Department views the proposal most favorably.
227
Oct. 22 (296) From the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Advice that Paraguayan Minister has received authorization from his Government to participate in the conversations and that Foreign Minister has made plans for the first meeting.
227
Oct. 25 (300) From the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Argentine refusal to participate in the conversations and Brazilian Government’s decision to abandon the matter in view of Bolivian evasiveness in replying to the proposal.
227
Oct. 25 (A. 715 L. D. 1.792) From the Salvadoran Minister for Foreign Affairs
Transmission of a note which is being sent to the Foreign Ministers of Bolivia and Paraguay (text printed) advising the two countries of the peace proposal initiated by El Salvador.
228
Oct. 26 (A. 715 L. D. 1815) From the Salvadoran Minister for Foreign Affairs
Acknowledgment of the U. S. communication of October 5, and further reference to the proposal for a Chaco armistice.
229
Oct. 27 (302) From the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Receipt of information that Argentina, upon inquiry from the League, has replied that no conversations are in progress.
230
Oct. 29 (162) To the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
U. S. willingness to further the proposed conversations provided that Brazil agrees that the seat of the conversations be transferred to Buenos Aires should any concrete formula develop therefrom.
231
Oct. 30 (306) From the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Advice that Brazilian views are in full harmony with those expressed by the Department.
232
Nov. 6 (309) From the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Information that Bolivian Minister has been authorized to participate in direct conversations in the presence of U. S. and Brazilian representatives.
232
Nov. 6 (163) To the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Advice that Argentina has approached the Bolivian Government with new peace overtures and that no mention was made of either the United States or Brazil in connection therewith.
233
Nov. 7 (310) From the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Information that proposed direct conversations will not be held and that Foreign Minister has advised the Bolivian Minister of U. S.-Brazilian opinion as to the inadvisability of renewing the suggestion unless it is specifically requested by both belligerents.
233
Nov. 8 (164) To the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Further advice in connection with Argentine efforts toward renewed peace proposals.
234
Nov. 9 (313) From the Chargé in Brazil (tel.)
Report of conversation with the Bolivian Minister and with the Paraguayan Minister in regard to resumption of mediation proceedings.
235
Nov. 17 (49) From the Chargé in Paraguay (tel.)
Advice that although the Paraguayan attitude has been stiffened by recent military successes, unofficial information indicates that an effort may be made to establish contact between the two belligerents for the purpose of exploring the possibility of direct negotiations.
236
Nov. 22 (48) To the Minister in El Salvador
U. S. reply (text printed) to Foreign Minister’s notes of October 25 and 26.
236
[Page XXX]

III. Arms Embargo Under the Auspices of the League of Nations Against the Chaco Belligerents

[Page XXXI][Page XXXII][Page XXXIII][Page XXXIV][Page XXXV]
Date and number Subject Page
1934 May 17 (254) From the Minister in Switzerland (tel.)
Information that British delegate to the League will oppose postponing consideration of the Chaco report and that he intends to propose a complete arms embargo against both belligerents.
237
May 17 (78) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Summary of British statement proposing an arms embargo, and advice that Chaco question as a whole will be discussed shortly.
238
May 18 (80) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Information that Council plans to obtain the collaboration of jurists to frame a suggested procedure which would give effect to the British proposals.
239
May 19 (85) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Opinions as to the chief factors which have governed the Council’s action and advice of intimations that certain states might adopt an unfavorable attitude toward an embargo.
239
May 20 From the Chairman, Council Committee of Three of the League of Nations
Request that Secretary General be informed as to whether the United States is prepared to participate in the embargo measure.
240
May 22 (88) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Information concerning arms embargo communications and states to whom such communications were sent.
241
May 22 (89) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Secretariat’s opinion as to nature of replies expected from the various states.
242
May 22 (90) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Advice from League authorities as to the positions taken by the states concerned vis-a-vis the embargo proposals of 1933.
243
May 23 (40) From the Minister in Uruguay (tel.)
Information that Uruguay has replied to the League that she will join in the embargo measures, but that the embargo, to be effective, should be with the acquiescence of the bordering countries.
244
May 28 (159) To the Minister in Switzerland, at Geneva (tel.)
Message for the Secretary General (text printed) advising League of President’s Proclamation prohibiting sale of arms and munitions of war to Bolivia and Paraguay.
244
May 28 (98) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Advice concerning replies thus far received by the League and pessimistic views of Secretariat officials respecting the successful issue of the embargo efforts.
245
May 28 (99) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Information concerning Italian reply
247
May 29 (100) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Advice of Secretariat’s endeavor to induce Italy to reword her reply.
247
May 29 (101) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Report of conversation with the German Consul, who stated that his Government would conform its policy to that of the United States and requested that he be given some intimation of U. S. policy in the premises.
248
May 29 (47) To the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Assumption that publication of the U. S. reply to the League has answered the German Consul’s question.
248
May 30 (108) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Information that Italy has reworded her reply.
249
May 31 (49) To the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Request for information as to the reaction in Geneva to the U. S. reply, and advice of report appearing in the Baltimore Sun respecting German position in relation to that of the United States.
249
June 1 (117) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Clarifying information in regard to the Baltimore Sun’s report, and emphasis on the need for advice as to the official German position in the matter.
250
June 1 (123) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Advice that general reaction to the U. S. position is one of extreme gratification.
250
June 1 (50) To the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Absence of any additional information as to what position the German Government proposes to take or of what procedure it intends to follow in communicating with the League.
251
June 2 (128) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Further advice concerning Germany’s delay in communicating its reply to the League.
251
June 2 (129) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Report on developments in League consideration of the embargo proposal.
252
June 4 (131) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Advice concerning obstructions which League is encountering in its endeavor to obtain favorable response to the proposal.
253
June 4 (132) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Information that Italy has formally named Soviet Union and Japan as states on which her action is contingent in addition to the states listed in her 1933 reply.
255
June 5 (135) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Report of further developments relating to the embargo situation.
255
June 5 (136) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Information that a meeting of “interested states” has been considered, with thought being given to possible U. S. participation.
256
June 6 (54) To the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Advice concerning terms of the President’s Proclamation.
256
June 7 (140) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Information that the British Government has made inquiry of the German Government as to clarification of its position.
257
June 8 (142) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Advice concerning a draft “undertaking” which was presented at a meeting of the Council States reducing to a minimum the obligations which the States might take individually in the matter of embargo measures.
257
June 8 (144) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Transmittal of draft “undertaking” (text printed).
260
June 8 (145) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Secretary General’s receipt of a Bolivian communication emphasizing the inequitable character of an arms embargo against both parties.
261
June 8 (146) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Report of efforts to convey a clear picture of the U. S. position to the League.
261
June 8 (147) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Advice that the Soviet Union has accepted the embargo proposal unconditionally.
262
June 9 (149) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Japanese reply (text printed) to embargo proposal.
262
June 9 (151) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Advice of procedure now contemplated by the League for continuance of consultations on the proposal.
263
June 9 (152) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Discussion with the Japanese representative in regard to his Government’s reply to the League.
264
June 11 (157) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
German note to the British delegation, June 9 (text printed), setting forth the German position.
265
June 12 (261) From the Minister in Switzerland (tel.)
Request for advice as to whether instructions have been issued to U. S. customs authorities to scrutinize shipments of airplanes and motors destined to Bolivia or Paraguay.
265
June 13 (160) To the Minister in Switzerland, at Geneva (tel.)
Information that all shipments of arms and munitions destined to the two belligerent countries are being scrutinized and investigated; inquiry as to whether measures have been taken to insure close cooperation and exchange of information between the U. S. delegation to the Disarmament Conference and the Consulate in regard to matters of concern to both.
266
June 15 (262) From the Minister in Switzerland (tel.)
Assurance that delegation and Consulate are continually informed of each other’s reports as well as instructions.
267
June 15 (168) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Advice that identic letters enclosing a draft report on the embargo question are being dispatched by the League to all governments previously consulted except Germany and Japan.
267
June 16 (42) To the Ambassador in Italy (tel.)
Instructions to ascertain the Italian Government’s attitude toward the arms embargo and its reasons therefor.
269
June 20 (71) To the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Information that goods manufactured and ready for delivery prior to May 28 have been excepted from the prohibitions of the Proclamation.
269
June 21 (7) To the Minister in Bolivia (tel.)
Refutation of report that there has been American propaganda in Geneva and South America for an arms embargo.
270
June 22 (130) From the Ambassador in Italy (tel.)
Report of Italian views and observations in regard to the proposed embargo.
270
June 28 (186) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Paraphrase of British reply to League’s communication of the draft report.
271
July 3 (190) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
British refusual of a Paraguayan request for the issuance of a license for the sale to Paraguay of two airplanes “for purely ambulance purposes.”
271
July 14 (413) From the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
From Norman Davis (Chairman of the U. S. delegation to the Disarmament Conference): Information concerning British efforts to induce Italy to take a more constructive attitude as regards the embargo proposal.
272
July 14 (301) To the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
Advice that press reports from London imply that the British Government is allowing arms manufactured under current contracts to proceed; instructions to ascertain British policy in the matter.
272
July 23 From the British Chargé
British communication to the League (text printed) stating that word has been received of the Italian decision to enact the necessary embargo measures, and that the British Government is now prepared to formally accept the proposal.
273
July 25 (205) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Information that Secretariat is drafting a telegram to be dispatched to all the governments which received the circular letter of June 14 informing them of recent British and Italian acceptance of the embargo proposal and urging similar action by the several countries.
274
July 25 (432) From the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
Information that upon entrance into force of the embargo plan, the British Government will stop immediately all licenses for export of arms to Bolivia and Paraguay whether under contracts existing prior to the date of the embargo or not.
274
July 25 (314) To the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
Request for a full report in regard to British policy up to the date of its statement of acceptance, especially in respect to arms and munitions manufactured under contract for either belligerent and paid for in whole or in part before the embargo became effective.
275
July 26 (206) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Advice that Spain and Sweden have accepted the proposal and that League has dispatched telegrams under date of July 25 to all those states which have not yet indicated their acceptance.
275
July 26 (433) From the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
Information concerning British embargo policy and exceptions covering three shipments since May 9.
276
July 26 (317) To the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
Instructions to obtain full information in regard to the three exceptions referred to in telegram No. 433, July 26.
277
July 27 To the British Charg4
Acknowledgment of Chargers letter of July 23, and advice of manner in which the United States is carrying out the terms of the President’s Proclamation.
277
July 27 (82) To the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Advice that certain arms and munitions contracted for with U. S. companies by the Bolivian Government and by the Lloyd Aereo Boliviano prior to the date of the President’s Proclamation have been excepted from the Proclamation’s prohibitions.
278
July 27 (164) To the American Delegate to the General Disarmament Conference (tel.)
Message to be transmitted to the League (text printed) relating to exceptions to the Proclamation which have been granted by the United States.
278
July 27 (438) From the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
Advice that Foreign Office does not at this time have detailed information requested in Department’s telegram No. 317, July 26, but has confirmed that the three cases mentioned cover all shipments made since May 9.
279
Aug. 3 (449) From the Chargé in Great Britain (tel.)
Advice that detailed information is still not available.
279
Aug. 11 (463) From the Chargé in Great Britain (tel.)
Advice that contracts for which licenses had been issued previous to May 9 have been completed and that the Government is now in effect enforcing a total embargo on the supply of all arms to the two belligerents.
280
Aug. 15 (332) To the Ambassador in Great Britain (tel.)
Instructions to make no further effort to obtain the detailed information requested in Department’s No. 317, July 26.
280
Aug. 25 (979 Pol.) From the Consul at Geneva
Detailed summary of the present situation at Geneva, particularly as regards the status of the embargo and action on the substance of the dispute.
280
Sept. 19 (247) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
League Council’s adoption of a report in which it is stated that the arms embargo question now belongs in the Assembly’s Sixth Committee and that its further discussion by the Council would serve no useful purpose.
287
Sept. 24 (267) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Information concerning First Committee’s adoption of a report on legal questions relating to the embargo as raised by the Italian delegation.
288

IV. Prohibition by the United States of the Sale of Arms and Munitions to the Chaco Belligerents

[Page XXXVI]
Date and number Subject Page
1934 May 28 To All American Diplomatic Missions in the American Republics (circ. tel.)
Instructions to inform Government to which accredited of Joint Resolution of Congress conferring upon the President the authority to prohibit sale of arms and munitions of war to Bolivia and Paraguay or to any person, company, or association acting in the interest of either country.
289
May 29 (34) From the Minister in Bolivia (tel.)
Foreign Minister’s opinion that Resolution is contrary to certain treaty provisions; his inquiry as to whether the Resolution is retroactive.
289
May 31 (5) To the Minister in Bolivia (tel.)
Department’s view that Resolution does not contravene treaty provisions; also that retroactive effect of the Resolution is a matter for determination of the courts.
290
June 1 From the Bolivian Minister
Bolivian views and observations in regard to the U. S. imposition of embargo measures.
290
June 13 To the Bolivian Minister
Acknowledgment of Minister’s note of June 1 and communication of the U. S. attitude toward Bolivian objections.
291
June 14 Memorandum by the Legal Adviser
Conversation between officials of the Department, the Bolivian Minister, and the First Secretary of the Legation during which the Minister requested that certain exceptions to the President’s Proclamation be granted his Government.
293
June 14 (35) From the Minister in Bolivia (tel.)
Foreign Minister’s request that Department be apprised of the fact that arms ordered by Bolivia before the embargo were held at New York, despite the assurance previously given the Bolivian Minister in Washington that the embargo was not retroactive.
294
June 20 (6) To the Minister in Bolivia (tel.)
Instructions to inform Foreign Minister that exceptions to the Proclamation have been granted in those cases where goods had been manufactured and were ready for delivery prior to May 28.
295
June 20 (36) From the Minister in Bolivia (tel.)
Foreign Minister’s further comments in regard to the U. S. Proclamation.
295
July 27 (27) To the Minister in Paraguay (tel.)
Advice of exceptions to the Resolution’s prohibitions granted to the Bolivian Government and to the Lloyd Aereo Boliviano.
(Footnote: The same telegram, July 27, to the Minister in Bolivia.)
295
July 27 (28) To the Minister in Paraguay (tel.)
Information concerning total value of munitions for Bolivia which have been excepted and also value of those to which exception has been refused; instructions to give emphasis to the fact that no further exceptions will be granted and that no additional shipments can be made to either Paraguay or Bolivia.
296
Aug. 1 (33) From the Minister in Paraguay (tel.)
Report of hostile press comments criticizing U. S. action in making exceptions to the embargo and charging that Standard Oil Company influence is responsible for such exceptions; request for information as to the present state of peace negotiations.
296
Aug. 1 (29) To the Minister in Paraguay (tel.)
Detailed information in regard to the U. S. exceptions and reference to the Standard Oil Company; also information concerning the Argentine conciliation formula, and Department’s belief that it is inadvisable to discuss the U. S. attitude toward mediation with Paraguayan officials at this time.
297

CONCERN OF THE UNITED STATES OVER MISUNDERSTANDING BETWEEN CHILE AND PARAGUAY RESULTING IN TEMPORARY WITHDRAWAL OF DIPLOMATIC REPRESENTATIVES

[Page XXXVII][Page XXXVIII]
Date and number Subject Page
1934 July 9 (59) From the Ambassador in Chile (tel.)
Conversation with Foreign Minister, who alluded to the increasing tension between his Government and that of Paraguay and stated that in the event that no replacement was forthcoming for the Paraguayan Minister in Santiago, his Government might feel compelled to withdraw its Minister from Asuncion.
300
July 14 (55) To the Ambassador in Chile (tel.)
Advice that Assistant Secretary Welles has mentioned to the Paraguayan Minister the Chilean concern in regard to the friction existing between the two countries and has expressed the U. S. hope that no break in relations would take place.
301
July 20 (26) To the Minister in Paraguay (tel.)
Department’s hope that no steps will be taken which would impair relations between Chile and Paraguay and that a strong effort will be made to find a solution of those questions which have given rise to the present misunderstanding.
301
July 24 (32) From the Minister in Paraguay (tel.)
Account of conversation with the President of Paraguay.
302
Aug. 6 (65) From the Ambassador in Chile (tel.)
Chilean Government’s notification to the Paraguayan Government of its decision to withdraw the Chilean Minister from Asunci6n.
303
Aug. 7 (113) From the Ambassador in Argentina (tel.)
Foreign Minister’s views in regard to the Chilean Government’s withdrawal of its diplomatic representative in Asunci6n.
303
Aug. 7 (66) From the Ambassador in Chile (tel.)
Chilean view that its action will not constitute a technical rupture of diplomatic relations.
304
Aug. 8 (34) From the Minister in Paraguay (tel.)
Discussion with the Chilean Minister in regard to the Paraguayan note which led to the Chilean decision.
304
Aug. 8 (30) To the Minister in Paraguay (tel.)
Instructions to make inquiry of President Ayala as to whether his Government would desire to avail itself of the friendly services of the United States in attempting to find a solution of the present controversy; understanding that Brazil is making a similar inquiry.
306
Aug. 8 (60) To the Ambassador in Chile (tel.)
Instructions to convey to Foreign Minister U. S. offer of friendly services.
306
Aug. 10 (35) From the Minister in Paraguay (tel.)
Interview with the President during which both U. S. and Brazilian friendly services were offered. Statement issued by Foreign Ministry reviewing the incidents in relations between Chile and Paraguay and maintaining the view that the Chilean Government has been guilty of unneutral acts of partiality toward Bolivia during the Chaco dispute.
307
Aug. 10 (79) To the Ambassador in Argentina (tel.)
Instructions to advise the Foreign Minister of U. S. efforts at Santiago and Asunci6n and to inquire what progress he has made with respect to the Chilean desire that Paraguay retract her charge concerning neutrality.
308
Aug. 11 (72) From the Ambassador in Chile (tel.)
Foreign Minister’s statement to the press (text printed) in regard to the Chilean attitude toward neutrality.
310
Aug. 11 (31) To the Minister in Paraguay (tel.)
Advice of Argentine Foreign Minister’s belief that he has obtained a conciliatory statement from the Paraguayan President covering one of the points in the misunderstanding.
310
Aug. 12 (36) From the Minister in Paraguay (tel.)
Information that Chilean Minister’s departure from Asunci6n has been postponed.
311
Aug. 13 (119) From the Ambassador in Argentina (tel.)
Argentine telegram sent to the Foreign Ministers of Paraguay and Chile presenting a formula for settlement of their differences and requesting Chilean cooperation in furtherance of the Chaco negotiations.
311
Aug. 13 (82) To the Ambassador in Argentina (tel.)
Receipt of information that Paraguay has accepted the Argentine peace formula; instructions to advise Foreign Minister of U. S. intention to urge the Chilean Government to accept likewise.
312
Aug. 13 (66) To the Ambassador in Chile (tel.)
Information concerning Argentine peace proposal and its acceptance by Paraguay; instructions to express to Foreign Minister U. S. hope that Chile will also accept the solution.
312
Aug. 23 (95) To the Ambassador in Argentina (tel.)
Chilean suggestion of a note which would be acceptable if sent by the Paraguayan Government; instructions to communicate to Foreign Minister the U. S. hope that he will support the Chilean suggestion.
313
Aug. 24 (38) From the Minister in Paraguay (tel.)
Opinion, concurred in by the Brazilian Minister, that it would be ill-advised to suggest to Paraguay a note such as proposed by Chile.
314
Aug. 27 (33) To the Minister in Paraguay (tel.)
Advice that it has been deemed desirable to leave to the Argentine Foreign Minister the task of exerting such pressure upon Paraguay as he feels is necessary.
315
Sept. 5 (41) From the Minister in Paraguay (tel.)
Outline of telegram sent by the Paraguayan Government to its Legation in Argentina in regard to the Chilean proposed solution.
316
Sept. 17 (90) From the Ambassador in Chile (tel.)
Information as to basis upon which the Chilean and Paraguayan Governments have agreed to close the incident.
317
Sept. 17 (162) From the Ambassador in Argentina (tel.)
Report of meeting held at the Foreign Office wherein it was disclosed that Chile and Paraguay had arrived at a complete understanding over their recent differences.
318
Sept. 18 (69) To the Ambassador in Chile (tel.)
Instructions to express to Foreign Minister U. S. congratulations upon termination of the incident between Chile and Paraguay.
318
Sept. 19 (91) From the Ambassador in Chile (tel.)
Advice that incident has been satisfactorily adjusted on the basis referred to in telegram No. 90, September 17.
319
Sept. 20 (195) From the Ambassador in Chile
Foreign Minister’s appreciation of Department’s sentiments; general Chilean jubilation over satisfactory settlement of the incident.
319

LETICIA DISPUTE BETWEEN COLOMBIA AND PERU

[Page XXXIX][Page XL][Page XLI][Page XLII][Page XLIII][Page XLIV][Page XLV]
Date and number Subject Page
1934 Jan. 26 (10) To the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Request for information as to progress being made in the Leticia discussions.
321
Jan. 29 (16) From the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Explanation of lack of progress in the Leticia negotiations.
321
Feb. 2 (226) From the Minister in Switzerland (tel.)
Advice that the League of Nations has received reports of military preparations being made by both Colombia and Peru; also that the Committee of Three is seeking any information available as to the state of negotiations now being carried on at Rio de Janeiro.
321
Feb. 5 (132) To the Minister in Switzerland, at Geneva (tel.)
Instructions to advise League of the latest information received by the United States in regard to the Leticia negotiations.
322
Feb. 14 (16) To the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Instructions to ascertain from Foreign Minister Mello Franco the present status of the Leticia negotiations and whether there is any probability of resumption of active negotiations in the near future.
322
Feb. 16 (27) From the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Foreign Minister’s advice that Peruvian and Colombian delegates will meet shortly with him to discuss a date for the resumption of conversations.
323
Feb. 19 (108) From the Minister in Colombia
Report that League Commission for the Administration of the Territory of Leticia expects to turn that territory over to Colombia at the expiration of its year’s mandate; Commission’s opinion that hostilities will be resumed after Colombia has regained administration.
323
Mar. 13 (24) To the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Instructions to ascertain informally from Mello Franco his views as to any progress made in the Leticia discussions and what he foresees as the probable situation when the Commission’s mandate expires in June.
324
Mar. 13 (134) To the Minister in Switzerland, at Geneva (tel.)
Instructions to ascertain informally Secretariat’s views as to progress of Leticia discussions and as to probable situation when Commission’s mandate expires.
325
Mar. 14 (42) From the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Advice that Mello Franco has stated that there is nothing concrete to report, but that he is still optimistic of settlement before the League mandate expires.
325
Mar. 14 (230) From the Minister in Switzerland (tel.)
Information that copy of a letter dated January 23 from the President of the Leticia Commission in regard to expiration of the mandate has been transmitted by the Secretary General to Colombia and Peru, together with an invitation for their comment; transmittal of Secretariat’s views as requested in Department’s telegram No. 134, March 13.
325
Mar. 15 (44) From the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Foreign Office views in regard to a possible settlement of the Leticia dispute before the mandate expires.
327
Mar. 17 (135) To the Minister in Switzerland, at Geneva (tel).
Communication of Brazilian views on possible settlement of dispute before expiration of mandate.
328
Mar. 23 (231) From the Minister in Switzerland (tel.)
Report of developments in League consideration of the Leticia dispute.
328
Mar. 24 (36) From the Ambassador in Peru (tel.)
Advice that Minister of Hacienda has expressed concern over his Government’s armament expenditures, and that status of Leticia question at present is causing disturbances in exchange as reports spread that developments are adverse to Peru.
329
Mar. 26 (23) To the Ambassador in Peru (tel.)
Inquiry as to what is meant by reference to reports of adverse developments.
329
Mar. 27 (37) From the Ambassador in Peru (tel.)
Resume of developments considered to be adverse to Peru.
329
Mar. 29 (232) From the Minister in Switzerland (tel.)
Advice that League has received replies from Peru and Colombia to communication transmitted by the Secretary General; inquiry as to advisability of having the U. S. Ambassador in Brazil suggest to the Brazilian Government that its representative on the Advisory Committee be fully acquainted as to the course of negotiations in Rio de Janeiro; further inquiry as to whether the United States desires to express an opinion on the questions raised by the Leticia Commission in its letter of January 23.
330
Mar. 30 (27) To the Ambassador in Peru (tel.)
Instructions to send brief cable reports on developments of interest in the Leticia situation.
331
Apr. 4 (54) From the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Information that Leticia negotiations have taken on a less favorable aspect, as negotiators are unable to agree upon a basis of solution, and that both the Peruvian and Colombian delegations have issued general statements of their views.
332
Apr. 4 (32) To the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Instructions to discuss the Leticia situation with Mello Franco and to suggest that he make a peace proposal of his own to both the Peruvian and Colombian delegations.
332
Apr. 4 (136) To the Minister in Switzerland, at Geneva (tel.)
Advice that the U. S. Ambassador in Brazil will be instructed to make the suggestion recommended in telegram No. 232, March 29; also that the United States does not wish to express an opinion at this time on the questions submitted by the Leticia Commission.
333
Apr. 4 (33) To the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Instructions to suggest that Brazilian representative on the League Advisory Committee be apprised of the course of the Rio de Janeiro negotiations.
333
Apr. 4 (44) From the Ambassador in Peru (tel.)
Foreign Minister’s views in regard to prolongation of the occupancy of Leticia by the League’s Commission.
334
Apr. 5 (56) From the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Foreign Minister’s summary of recent developments in negotiations.
335
Apr. 5 (57) From the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Conversation with Mello Franco, who suggested that Department endeavor to obtain Peruvian consent to take the initiative in expressing regrets for the past incidents, thereby rendering it easier for Colombia to accept a direct settlement which might either obviate or facilitate arbitration of the whole difficulty.
336
Apr. 6 (216) From the Ambassador in Brazil
Transmittal of statements recently issued by the Colombian and Peruvian delegations to the Leticia peace conference (texts printed).
337
Apr. 6 (35) To the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Advice of U. S. view toward support of suggestion made by Peru for extension of the mandate, and toward Mello Franco’s proposal referred to in telegram No. 57, April 5.
339
Apr. 6 (58) From the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Information that Brazilian representative at Geneva will receive an informal statement as to the present state of negotiations.
339
Apr. 7 (233) From the Minister in Switzerland (tel.)
Advice of League’s receipt of a note from Colombia refusing to agree to prolongation of the mandate, and report of forthcoming Peruvian note breaking off the Rio de Janeiro negotiations.
340
Apr. 11 (19) From the Minister in Colombia (tel.)
Substance of a memorandum from the Foreign Minister on the state of negotiations at Rio de Janeiro.
340
Apr. 12 (235) From the Minister in Switzerland (tel.)
Summary of two meetings held by the Consultative Committee on Leticia.
341
Apr. 12 (140) To the Minister in Switzerland, at Geneva (tel.)
Advice that Brazil has requested the United States to support a suggestion it has made at Geneva that for the time being the League refrain from any move in the Leticia matter.
342
Apr. 13 (38) To the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Information from Brazilian Ambassador that the negotiations in Rio de Janeiro have suddenly taken a favorable turn; request that all details available be transmitted to Department.
342
Apr. 14 (60) From the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Conversation with Mello Franco in regard to current status of negotiations.
343
Apr. 19 From the Chief of the Division of Latin American Affairs to the Assistant Secretary of State
Colombian Minister’s inquiry in regard to a press statement made by the Secretary that the United States would extend its good offices if both Peru and Colombia should so request.
344
Apr. 24 (66) From the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Information that Mello Franco has submitted a draft protocol to Peru and Colombia.
344
Apr. 26 (236) From the Minister in Switzerland (tel.)
Advice concerning present trend of League’s views regarding Leticia.
345
Apr. 28 (68) From the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Views of Peruvian delegate in connection with Mello Franco’s protocol.
346
Apr. 30 (143) To the Minister in Switzerland, at Geneva (tel.)
Advice of reports from Bogotá Lima, and Rio de Janeiro indicating possibility of a direct settlement between Peru and Colombia.
346
Apr. 30 (69) From the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Foreign Minister’s advice that there is distinct progress toward agreement on the basis of his protocol.
347
Apr. 30 (238) From the Minister in Switzerland (tel.)
Information that meeting of Advisory Committee has been postponed until May 15 in accordance with a suggestion by Mello Franco.
347
May 4 (26) From the Minister in Colombia (tel.)
Colombian fear that League is being influenced to confuse the issue of proposed settlement with the lapse of its mandate in Leticia.
348
May 9 (41) To the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Instructions to ascertain from Mello Franco whether he intends to propose a compromise formula in attempting to conciliate the divergent points of view between Peru and Colombia in regard to modification of the 1922 treaty.
348
May 10 (73) From the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Advice that Mello Franco has drawn up a formula seeking to conciliate the Peruvian-Colombian viewpoints.
349
May 10 (75) From the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Transmittal of compromise formula (text printed).
349
May 11 (27) From the Minister in Colombia (tel.)
Conversation with Foreign Minister, who expressed his views on the clause contained in the compromise formula regarding possible appeal to the Permanent Court of International Justice.
351
May 11 (76) From the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Conversation with Peruvian chief delegate, who stated that his delegation and that of Colombia cannot reach an agreement on the protocol proposed by Mello Franco due to the Colombian desire that the protocol be confined to general principles only.
352
May 11 (28) From the Minister in Colombia (tel.)
Conversation with the President, who explained in detail his Government’s attitude toward certain points contained in the compromise formula.
353
May 14 (249) From the Minister in Switzerland (tel.)
Advice that at the request of Brazil the meeting of the Leticia Committee has been adjourned pending the outcome of the present phase of negotiations in Rio de Janeiro.
354
May 15 (69) From the Ambassador in Peru (tel.)
Foreign Minister’s advice that Cabinet has approved formula and that authorization has been cabled to Peruvian delegates to sign as soon as Colombian delegates receive similar instructions.
354
May 16 (85) From the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Information that certain changes and additions have been made in the protocol, that Peruvian and Colombian delegates have agreed in principle to the changes, and that complete agreement is now contingent upon favorable decisions in Lima and Bogotá.
355
May 17 (30) From the Minister in Colombia (tel.)
Advice that Peru has now suggested modifications in the supplementary agreements to the formula.
356
May 17 (18) To the Minister in Colombia (tel.)
Instructions to express to the Acting Foreign Minister the U. S. hope that the formula will be acceptable to both Colombia and Peru.
356
May 17 (49) To the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Advice that the United States has expressed its hope to Colombia and Peru that the formula will be accepted.
357
May 18 (87) From the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Information that all agreements for provisional regime in the frontier zone have been drafted and have been definitely accepted by both delegations.
357
May 18 (73) From the Ambassador in Peru (tel.)
Advice from Foreign Minister that instructions have been sent to the Peruvian delegation to accept the formula unconditionally and to sign.
357
May 18 (89) From the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Brazil’s instruction to its representative at Geneva expressing the hope that the Leticia matter will not be discussed by the League in view of an imminent agreement in Rio, and Brazil’s hope for similar U. S. action.
358
May 18 (31) From the Minister in Colombia (tel.)
Observations of the President concerning difficulties with Peru as to the phraseology of article 6; his opinion, however, that overall accord is imminent.
358
May 18 (156) From the Minister in Switzerland, at Geneva (tel.)
Transmittal of text of telegram No. 89, May 18, from the Ambassador in Brazil.
359
May 18 (91) From the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Advice that full agreement on the Leticia question has been reached and that final signature is expected to take place within a few days.
359
May 19 (256) From the Minister in Switzerland (tel.)
Advisory Committee’s receipt of Mello Franco’s communicacation stating that complete agreement has been reached at Rio.
359
May 19 (84) From the Consul at Geneva (tel.)
Advice that League Council has adopted a report embodying Mello Franco’s communication and has directed that a congratulatory message be transmitted to him.
360
May 24 (101) From the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Information that Leticia agreement has been signed.
360
June 1 (277) From the Ambassador in Brazil
Text of agreement signed at Rio de Janeiro, May 24.
360
June 19 (46) From the Minister in Colombia (tel.)
Information that Leticia has been turned over to the Colombian Government and that the Commission has departed.
369
Nov. 3 (105) From the Ambassador in Peru (tel.)
Approval of agreement by the Peruvian Constituent Assembly.
369
Dec. 10 (100) From the Chargé in Colombia (tel.)
Information that agreement is encountering unexpected difficulties in the Colombian Congress due to domestic politics.
370
Dec. 12 (103) From the Chargé in Colombia (tel.)
Further information relating to Colombian delay in approving the agreement.
370
Dec. 13 (104) From the Chargé in Colombia (tel.)
Advice that defenders of the Rio Pact in the Colombian Congress appear to be pessimistic regarding its fate.
371
Dec. 13 (126) From the Ambassador in Peru (tel.)
Conversation with Foreign Minister, who spoke of Peru’s concern over the Colombian delay in ratifying the protocol and inquired whether the United States would be willing to express its interest in the matter to Colombia.
372
Dec. 14 (106) From the Chargé in Colombia (tel.)
Belief that inquiries either from individual American nations or from a League committee as to the present status of the Pact in the Colombian Congress might result in a change in attitude on the part of those opposed to the Pact.
373
Dec. 14 (127) From the Ambassador in Peru (tel.)
Advice that the British Minister, upon request of the Foreign Minister, has sent a message to his Government stressing the seriousness of the situation which has arisen over the Colombian delay and recommending that his Government employ its good offices with Colombia.
373
Dec. 15 (71) To the Chargé in Colombia (tel.)
Instructions to express orally to the Foreign Minister the U. S. hope that his Government will ratify the Pact before the date fixed for exchange of ratifications.
374
Dec. 17 (108) From the Chargé in Colombia (tel.)
Advice that substance of telegram No. 71, December 15, has been communicated to the Secretary of the Foreign Office, who indicated that he would inform the President.
374
Dec. 17 (72) To the Ambassador in Peru (tel.)
Instructions to advise Foreign Minister orally that the United States has expressed its interest in the matter to the Colombian Government.
374
Dec. 17 (131) From the Ambassador in Peru (tel.)
Foreign Minister’s appreciation of U. S. employment of its good offices with Colombia.
375
Dec. 26 (111) From the Chargé in Colombia (tel.)
Advice that Pact has been passed by the Colombian House of Representatives and that there is some hope for its passage by the Senate.
375
Dec. 28 (134) From the Ambassador in Peru (tel.)
Foreign Minister’s anxiety over the threatened ratification failure and his appeal for such assistance as may be possible at Bogotá.
375
Dec. 29 (114) From the Chargé in Colombia (tel.)
President’s issuance of decree declaring the extraordinary sessions of Congress to be prorogued for an indefinite period, together with his expression of the hope that Pact may be approved before December 31st.
376

REFUSAL OF THE UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT TO FACILITATE PREPARATIONS FOR WAR BY COLOMBIA AND PERU DURING THE LETICIA DISPUTE

[Page XLVI]
Date and number Subject Page
1934 Apr. 6 Memorandum by the Chief of the Division of Latin American Affairs
Conversation with Colombian Minister regarding activities of the Colombian Consul General at New York in enlisting American aviators and mechanics to go to Colombia under contract to serve in peace and war; explanation of U. S. neutrality laws, and request that the activities be stopped.
377
Apr. 10 (45) From the Ambassador in Peru (tel.)
Resentment of Peruvian officials over U. S. denial of repair facilities to a Peruvian ship in the Panama Canal Zone and over press reports concerning enlistment of American aviators with the Colombians.
378
Apr. 10 From the Secretary of War
Message sent to the Governor of the Panama Canal with respect to the Peruvian Transport Rimac, and Governor’s reply (texts printed).
379
Apr. 11 (31) To the Ambassador in Peru (tel.)
Instructions to assure Foreign Minister that the U. S. refusal to facilitate preparations for war by either Colombia or Peru has been maintained, and will continue to be maintained with the utmost impartiality.
380
Apr. 11 Press Release Issued by the Department of State
Statement explaining Colombian Government’s contracts with American aviators.
381
Apr. 12 (48) From the Ambassador in Peru (tel.)
Foreign Minister’s view that the U. S. attitude is completely satisfactory.
381
Apr. 12 To the Secretary of War
Confirmation of U. S. policy of withholding any facilities from Colombia or Peru which would assist them in preparations for hostilities.
381
Apr. 12 (3357) From the Ambassador in Peru
Foreign Minister’s reiteration of his satisfaction over the U. S. position as set forth in Department’s telegram No. 31, April 11.
382
Apr. 17 From the Secretary of War
Acknowledgment of Department’s letter of April 12; transmittal of a message from the Governor of the Panama Canal Zone, April 12 (text printed), in regard to the arrival in the Zone of the Peruvian cruiser Bolognesi.
383
Apr. 19 (3373) From the Ambassador in Peru
Conversation with President Benavides during which attempt was made to convince him that the U. S. Government is not showing partiality toward the Colombian Government.
384
Apr. 23 From the Secretary of War
Message from Governor of Canal Zone, April 21 (text printed), advising that the Bolognesi had sailed from Balboa.
386
May 4 (46) To the Minister in Colombia
Request that Department be apprised of the names of any American reserve officers who either enlist in the Colombian armed forces or who participate in any hostilities to which Colombia is a party.
387
May 14 From the Secretary of War
Message from Governor of Panama Canal Zone, May 12 (text printed), inquiring whether, in view of the reported improvement of relations between Colombia and Peru, Department desires to make a change in its policy which will permit the Canal to repair vessels of the two countries.
388
May 24 To the Secretary of War
Reply to Governor’s inquiry that facilities of the Zone may now be granted to either Colombia or Peru.
(Footnote: Similar letter, May 24, to the Secretary of the Navy.)
389

SPECIAL MISSION OF JOHN H. WILLIAMS TO INVESTIGATE FOREIGN EXCHANGE PROBLEMS IN ARGENTINA, BRAZIL, CHILE, AND URUGUAY

Date and number Subject Page
1934 June 28 To the Special Representative of the Department of State
Detailed instructions to be followed in connection with investigation of the problems created by the control of exchange by certain governments; brief summary of situations likely to be encountered in the various countries and request for recommendations regarding action to be taken.
390
Sept. 4 From the Special Representative of the Department of State
Submission of report (infra) on the mission of investigating U. S. foreign exchange problems.
392
Undated American Foreign Exchange Problems in Brazil, Argentina, Chile, and Uruguay
Text of report, including general statement of the problem and detailed reports on the exchange situations in the several countries.
393
[Page XLVII]

THE CONFERENCE OF CENTRAL AMERICAN STATES

[Page XLVIII][Page XLIX][Page L][Page LI]
Date and number Subject Page
1934 Jan. 26 (30) From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
President’s opinion that no further steps will be taken in connection with the proposed conference of Central American States until El Salvador’s government is recognized by the United States.
423
Jan. 27 (14) From the Chargé in Guatemala (tel.)
Conversation with Foreign Minister, who expressed his Government’s views on the forthcoming conference and suggested certain items which he felt should be included on the agenda.
423
Jan. 29 (32) From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
President’s plan to confer with Honduran and Guatemalan representatives in order to ascertain their Governments’ views on the form which the invitation to the conference should take, and on meeting place of conference.
425
Jan. 29 (8) From the Minister in Honduras (tel.)
Foreign Minister’s deferment of definite consideration of agenda until Honduran delegates to Montevideo Conference have returned, and expression of his preference for Panama as a suitable place for holding Central American conference.
426
Jan. 30 (6) From the Minister in Costa Rica (tel.)
Advice that Costa Rica has been wholly ignored in connection with the proposed conference; opinion that if agenda is completed and submitted to Costa Rica on a “take it or leave it” basis, resentment and hostility toward the conference will result.
426
Jan. 30 (34) From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Information concerning President’s proposal for the issuance of invitations and for the designation of Guatemala as place of conference.
427
Jan. 31 (15) From the Chargé in Guatemala (tel.)
Guatemalan Government’s preference not to agree beforehand with Honduras and Nicaragua upon the conference agenda, and its plans to transmit a draft invitation with the request that the Nicaraguan President extend the invitation to Central American Governments and to Panama.
428
Jan. 31 To Diplomatic Representatives in Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua (circ. tel.)
Instructions to bear in mind that the proposed conference is a purely Central American project, that the United States has no responsibility in connection with it and wishes to remain in the background.
429
Feb. 1 (6) To the Chargé in Guatemala (tel.)
Instructions to inform Foreign Minister orally and confidentially of the U. S. attitude toward inclusion of Panama in the proposed conference.
429
Feb. 1 (35) From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
President’s views as to consultation with Costa Rica before agreement upon agenda, and on question of inviting Panaman participation.
430
Feb. 2 (16) From the Chargé in Guatemala (tel.)
Foreign Minister’s opinion that the invitations should be limited to the five Central American Republics.
430
Feb. 5 (38) From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Advice that Guatemalan President is sending a protocol to President Sacasa to be signed by the Presidents of Guatemala, Nicaragua, and Honduras.
431
Feb. 5 (39) From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Information concerning the Guatemalan protocol received by President Sacasa.
431
Feb. 7 (43) From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Advice that Presidents of Nicaragua, Guatemala, and Honduras have signed the protocol and that invitations to the conference will probably be extended February 7.
432
Feb. 9 (45) From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Information that President has extended an invitation to the Presidents of Costa Rica and El Salvador to send representatives to the conference.
432
Feb. 13 (6) From the Chargé in El Salvador (tel.)
Advice that President has accepted the invitation but has requested that the project of those pacts to be presented to the conference for revision be sent to him as soon as possible in order that his Government might study them in advance.
432
Feb. 13 (47) From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Information that Costa Rican President has accepted invitation but has suggested that date of conference be postponed and that summary agenda be communicated to the interested Governments.
433
Feb. 15 (49) From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Advice that President has sent a telegram to the other Central American States proposing March 15 as the date of the conference.
433
Feb. 15 (14) From the Minister in Honduras (tel.)
Plans of the President’s private secretary to go to Washington to consult with the Honduran Minister and the Department regarding possible U. S. support at Guatemala City to a modification of article 2 of the 1923 treaty of peace and amity.
433
Feb. 16 (52) From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
President’s views regarding Guatemalan reluctance to postpone date of conference.
434
Feb. 16 (11) From the Minister in Costa Rica (tel.)
Foreign Minister’s intimation that Costa Rica will not participate in the conference unless the date is postponed and unless she is provided in advance with a specific agenda.
435
Feb. 16 (17) From the Chargé in Guatemala (tel.)
Summary of draft treaties which Guatemala plans to submit to the conference; advice that copies are being sent to the four other Central American Governments.
435
Feb. 17 (55) From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
President’s receipt of information that postponement will be acceptable to Guatemala.
438
Feb. 17 (18) From the Chargé in Guatemala (tel.)
Foreign Office notification that conference will meet March 15.
438
Feb. 17 (11) To the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Assumption that Guatemalan attitude as expressed in the transmission of its draft proposals to the other Governments constitutes Guatemalan agreement to postpone the conference.
438
Feb. 17 (16) From the Minister in Honduras (tel.)
Foreign Minister’s expression of his Government’s hope for U. S. moral support at the conference.
439
Feb. 26 (19) From the Chargé in Guatemala (tel.)
Advice that in replying to a request from the President for Department’s good offices with Honduras and Nicaragua in regard to a new treaty of peace and amity, explanation was made of Department’s position as set forth in the circular telegram of January 31.
439
Feb. 28 (8) To the Chargé in Guatemala (tel.)
Approval of action explaining Department’s position.
440
Mar. 1 (18) To the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Instructions to make informal inquiry of President as to whether he has selected delegates to the conference and what preparations are being made for it.
440
Mar. 1 (81) From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Advice that delegates have not yet been selected and that, with the exception of making some preliminary studies, no preparations are being made.
440
Mar. 2 (19) To the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Department’s belief that Nicaragua should hasten preparations for the conference and that public attention should be directed thereto.
440
Mar. 2 (20) To the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Instructions to send copies of correspondence relating to the conference direct to the Legation in Guatemala whenever practicable and to keep it informed of developments of interest; also to repeat these instructions to the Legations in Costa Rica, El Salvador, and Honduras.
441
Mar. 3 To the Minister in Guatemala, Temporarily in the Department
Statement of U. S. policy in relation to the approaching conference.
441
Mar. 3 (84) From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Telegram being sent to the other Central American missions (text printed) reporting that President Sacasa has not yet decided upon his delegates to the conference, and requesting the names of delegates to be sent by the other Governments.
442
Undated [Rec’d Mar. 5] From the Chargé in El Salvador (tel.)
Telegram sent to Managua, March 4 (text printed), indicating that membership of the Salvadoran delegation has not yet been decided.
443
Mar. 5 (12) From the Minister in Costa Rica (tel.)
Advice that Honduran Minister to Costa Rica is leaving for Tegucigalpa for conferences before being appointed as his Government’s delegate.
443
Mar. 5 (86) From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
President’s desire to postpone the conference due to present Nicaraguan political disturbances.
443
Mar. 5 (86) From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Advice that Foreign Minister considers postponement essential in order to reconcile what he termed the divergent views of Guatemala and Costa Rica in regard to the draft convention to be submitted to the Central American States.
444
Mar. 6 (22) From the Chargé in Guatemala (tel.)
Intention of Guatemalan Government to reply to President Sacasa opposing his proposal for postponement.
445
Mar. 6 (12) From the Chargé in El Salvador (tel.)
Telegram to Managua (text printed) reporting the names of Salvadoran delegates to the conference.
445
Mar. 6 (22) To the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Opinion that further postponement would be unfortunate for Nicaragua and Central America in general.
446
Mar. 6 (20) From the Minister in Honduras (tel.)
Foreign Minister’s advice that his Government considers it best to postpone opening of the conference until late in April, and that no delegates will be appointed at this time.
446
Mar. 7 (90) From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
President’s withdrawal of his proposal for postponement.
447
Mar. 7 (91) From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
President’s reasons for withdrawing from his position, and his indication that the Nicaraguan delegation will leave for Guatemala on March 13.
447
Mar. 7 (22) From the Minister in Honduras (tel.)
Advice that Honduras has agreed to hold the conference on March 15 as originally planned and that delegates will be appointed shortly.
448
Mar. 8 (93) From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Information as to delegates whom the President desires to appoint.
448
Mar. 9 (13) From the Minister in Costa Rica (tel.)
Costa Rican delegation’s departure for Guatemala.
448
Mar. 9 (25) From the Minister in Honduras (tel.)
List of Honduran delegates to conference.
449
Mar. 10 (26) From the Minister in Honduras (tel.)
Deletion of name of one member of delegation to conference who failed to obtain congressional confirmation.
449
Mar. 12 (97) From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Notification of change in list of delegates.
449
Mar. 12 (15) From the Chargé in El Salvador (tel.)
Salvadoran delegation’s departure for Guatemala, and information concerning proposals which the delegation is most likely to support.
450
Mar. 13 (98) From the Minister in Nicaragua (tel.)
Summary of the main points included in the President’s instructions to the Nicaraguan delegates.
450
Mar. 14 (28) From the Minister in Honduras (tel.)
Resume of instructions issued to Honduran delegates.
451
Mar. 14 (19) From the Chargé in El Salvador (tel.)
Points of Guatemalan proposals with which El Salvador does not concur.
451
Mar. 15 (26) From the Minister in Guatemala (tel.)
Information that Conference has been assembled and is now organizing in private session.
452
Mar. 15 (27) From the Minister in Guatemala (tel.)
Conference selection of a permanent chairman.
452
Mar. 15 From the President of the Central American Conference (tel.)
Official notice that Conference has convened.
452
Mar. 16 (14) From the Minister in Costa Pica (tel.)
Indications that Mexican Government is keeping close watch on Conference developments.
453
Mar. 17 (14) To the Minister in Guatemala (tel.)
Instructions to communicate to Conference President the Secretary’s acknowledgment of his message of March 15 and good wishes for the success of the Conference.
453
Mar. 19 (31) From the Minister in Guatemala (tel.)
Observations presented by the delegates of Costa Rica, El Salvador, and Honduras in connection with the Guatemalan draft treaty of Central American fraternity.
453
Mar. 21 (34) From the Minister in Guatemala (tel.)
Dispute between the Honduran and Nicaraguan delegations over Honduran interpretation of article 14 of its draft treaty referring to arbitration.
454
Mar. 21 (32) From the Minister in Guatemala (tel.)
Article 16 (text printed) of the draft treaty of peace and amity presented to the Conference by the Salvadoran delegation.
454
Mar. 23 (36) From the Minister in Guatemala (tel.)
Article 7 (text printed) of a draft treaty of peace and friendship which will be presented by the Honduran delegation.
455
Mar. 24 (33) From the Minister in Honduras (tel.)
Telegram sent to the Legation in Guatemala (text printed) enclosing an extract of a press report in connection with the Honduran delegation’s attempt to gain Conference acceptance of its arbitration proposal.
456
Apr. 13 (42) From the Minister in Guatemala (tel.)
Article 21 (text printed) of the Treaty of Central American Fraternity concluded by the Conference before its closing.
456

BOUNDARY DISPUTE BETWEEN ECUADOR AND PERU

[Page LII]
Date and number Subject Page
1934 Jan. 19 (3225) From the Ambassador in Peru
Note from the Ecuadoran Minister in Peru, January 11 (text printed), relative to a possible eventual transfer of Peruvian-Ecuadoran boundary negotiations to Washington and subsequent arbitration by the U. S. President, in case the Lima negotiations fail; memorandum (text printed) attached to Ecuadoran note setting forth antecedents of the border dispute.
457
Jan. 31 To President Roosevelt
Transmittal of note from the Ecuadoran Minister dated January 31 (text printed) requesting U. S. permission to send an Ecuadoran delegation to Washington; information that a similar note has been received from the Peruvian Ambassador, and recommendation that the requests be granted.
(Footnote: Indication that the President approved.)
460
Feb. 12 To the Ecuadoran Minister
U. S. consent to request of January 31.
(Footnote: Similar note to the Peruvian Ambassador.)
462
Apr. 25 (6) To the Minister in Ecuador (tel.)
Information relative to question of possible Ecuadoran participation in the current negotiations in Rio for solution of the Peruvian-Colombian boundary dispute; U. S. reasons for feeling such participation inadvisable.
463
July 9 Memorandum by the Chief of the Division of Latin American Affairs
U. S. views toward an Ecuadoran inquiry as to whether the United States would send a message to the Ecuadoran President-elect and to the Peruvian President requesting them to attempt to reach an agreement on the question of frontiers in the Amazon Valley.
464
July 11 From the Assistant Secretary of State to the Chief of the Division of Latin American Affairs
Information on Colombian views toward inclusion of Ecuador in any discussions relating to adjustment of the various claims for territory in the Amazon headwaters region.
465

COOPERATION OF THE UNITED STATES WITH OTHER GOVERNMENTS IN THE CONSTRUCTION OF THE INTER-AMERICAN HIGHWAY

[Page LIII][Page LIV]
Date and number Subject Page
1934 Feb. 6 (62) From the Chargé in Guatemala
Guatemalan intention to make a proposal to the forthcoming Central American conference relative to cooperative action in highway development.
467
Mar. 13 (25) From the Minister in Guatemala (tel.)
Request for Department’s instructions in connection with conference consideration of the highway project.
467
Mar. 16 (28) From the Minister in Guatemala (tel.)
Costa Rican delegate’s opinion that project is a noncon-troversial subject on which the conference should be able to reach an agreement, and his interest in learning what assistance the United States might give toward construction of the highway.
468
Mar. 19 (30) From the Minister in Guatemala (tel.)
Opinion expressed to delegates that such assistance as United States might be able to extend would depend on the interest displayed by the Central American Governments themselves.
468
Mar. 21 (16) To the Minister in Guatemala (tel.)
Approval of action described in telegram No. 30, March 19.
469
Mar. 21 (33) From the Minister in Guatemala (tel.)
Costa Rican inquiry as to whether the United States would give material assistance toward construction of the highway.
469
Mar. 22 (17) To the Minister in Guatemala (tel.)
Advice that both the President and the Department are interested in the matter and are endeavoring to work out ways and means to give the material assistance desired by the Central American Governments.
469
Apr. 8 (41) From the Minister in Guatemala (tel.)
Resolution passed by the conference, April 7 (text printed), stating the need for reaching an agreement with the United States in connection with completion of the highway.
470
May 16 From the Chief of the Bureau of Public Roads
Suggested legislative provision (text printed) for Department’s consideration which would authorize the Secretary of Agriculture to continue reconnaissance surveys previously authorized under Public Resolution No. 104 for an inter-American highway.
470
May 18 To the Secretary of Agriculture
Transmittal of copy of letter of May 16 from the Chief of the Bureau of Public Roads, and advice that whatever decision is made will meet with the Secretary’s approval.
471
June 8 To Diplomatic and Consular Officers in Panama, Nicaragua, Honduras, El Salvador, and Guatemala
Excerpt (text printed) from an instruction previously sent to the Minister in Costa Rica setting forth Department’s views in regard to the highway project.
472
Aug. 24 (470) To the Ambassador in Mexico
Instructions to ascertain from Foreign Minister whether Mexico would be interested in joining the United States, the five Central American Governments, and Panama in reorganizing the Inter-American Highway Commission and in being represented thereon.
472
Aug. 29 (438) From the Chargé in Nicaragua
President’s observations in regard to location of the Nicaraguan section of the highway.
473
Sept. 25 (1805) From the Ambassador in Mexico
Conversation with Foreign Minister, who stated that his Government would prefer not to take any action at this time on the suggested reorganization of the Highway Commission.
475
Oct. 17 (174) To the Minister in Panama
Instructions to inform appropriate authorities of U. S. legislative provisions (texts printed) for surveys and construction in connection with the highway; further instructions to ascertain whether Panama accepts the route through that country as laid down in the reconnaissance survey report sent on June 11.
(Footnote: The same, mutatis mutandis, October 17, to diplomatic missions in the five Central American countries.)
476
Oct. 23 (456) From the Minister in Panama
Panaman note, October 23 (text printed), stating that the Government accepts with pleasure the route determined upon in the survey report.
477
Oct. 23 (567) From the Chargé in Nicaragua
Comments made by the Foreign Minister and the President regarding the U. S. proposal for expenditure of funds in connection with the highway.
478
Oct. 27 To the Secretary of Agriculture
Opinion that U. S. expenditure of funds for the highway should be confined to the area north of the Panama Canal Zone, for the reason that it is believed preferable to confine assistance to those countries in which reconnaissance surveys have already been completed.
480
Oct. 30 (401) From the Minister in Guatemala
Guatemalan attitude toward Department’s offer of cooperation in building the highway.
481
Nov. 15 (498) From the Minister in Costa Rica
Costa Rican note of November 9 (text printed) setting forth the Government’s views relative to construction of the highway; analysis of Costa Rican attitude and recommendations as to eventual Costa Rican participation in the project.
482
Nov. 19 (607) From the Chargé in Nicaragua
Nicaraguan acceptance of the route through its territory laid down in the reconnaissance survey report transmitted to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on June 26.
489
Nov. 21 (1264) From the Chargé in Honduras
Honduran note of November 20 (text printed) with respect to the route acceptable to that Government; recommendations as to ways in which funds for the Honduran portion of the highway may be expended to best advantage.
490
Dec. 7 Memorandum of Conference Between Representatives of the Departments of State and Agriculture
Conclusion that another attempt would be made to obtain Mexican cooperation, that steps would be taken toward continuing the surveys south of Panama, but that until Mexico’s position was ascertained, no work on the highway should be undertaken in Central America.
492
Dec. 10 (549) To the Ambassador in Mexico
Instructions to make another attempt to obtain Mexican cooperation in the proposed reorganization of the Inter-American Highway Commission.
493

INTERPRETATION OF ARTICLE IV OF THE HABANA CONVENTION ON COMMERCIAL AVIATION ADOPTED FEBRUARY 20, 1928

Chile

Date and number Subject Page
1934 July 13 (53) To the Ambassador in Chile
Instructions to endeavor to reach an understanding with the Chilean Government in regard to interpretation of the Habana Convention relative to entry and clearance of private aircraft.
495
Nov. 20 (230) From the Chargé in Chile
Foreign Office note, November 19 (text printed), stating Government’s concurrence in Department’s interpretation of the Habana Convention.
498
[Page LV]

INTERPRETATION OF HABANA CONVENTION

Guatemala

Date and number Subject Page
1934 July 16 (245) From the Minister in Guatemala
Developments in the matter of obtaining Guatemalan acceptance of Department’s interpretation of article IV of the Habana Convention.
499
Aug. 8 (7509) From the Guatemalan Minister for Foreign Affairs to the American Minister in Guatemala
Reference to conditions under which commercial aircraft may enter Guatemalan territory; view that while it is not necessary for private aircraft to request formal authorization for entrance, advance notice must be given of each flight.
501
Aug. 29 (78) To the Minister in Guatemala
Instructions to make it clear to the Guatemalan Government that the Department does not desire to go into a discussion of commercial aircraft at this time, but wishes only to reach an understanding with respect to pleasure or touring aircraft.
502

Haiti

Date and number Subject Page
1934 Aug. 17 (387) From the Minister in Haiti
Haitian note, August 9 (text printed), stating concurrence in Department’s interpretation of article 4 of the Habana Convention.
505

Mexico

Date and number Subject Page
1934 June 1 (1468) From the Chargé in Mexico
Foreign Office communication, May 24 (text printed), expressing the view that the Habana Convention applies only to commercial air traffic, and proposing that an agreement be concluded between Mexico and the United States for the regulation of noncommercial flights.
506
June 27 (399) To the Chargé in Mexico
Department’s disagreement with views of the Foreign Office; nonobjection, however, to an exchange of notes interpretive of the Habana Convention.
508

ARGENTINA

Preliminary Discussions Respecting a Trade Agreement Between the United States and Argentina

Date and number Subject Page
1934 Feb. 8 Memorandum by the Secretary of State
Conversation with the Argentine Ambassador in regard to the possibilities of progress in the reciprocal commercial treaty negotiations between the United States and Argentina.
510
Sept. 7 To the Argentine Embassy
U. S. belief that it is advisable to defer the commencement of active negotiation until additional study of the situation has been made.
510
[Page LVI]

Efforts of the Department of State To Secure Equitable Treatment for American Interests With Respect to Argentine Exchange Restrictions

[Page LVII]
Date and number Subject Page
1934 Feb. 2 (170) From the Ambassador in Argentina
Memorandum prepared by the Commercial Attaché (text printed) relating to exchange operations between the United States and Argentina, and emphasizing the Argentine tendency toward giving exchange to the United States only in proportion to the amount of Argentine products sold to the United States.
511
Apr. 13 (252) From the Ambassador in Argentina
Information concerning result of inquiry made of the Argentine exchange authorities as to when action might be expected on the application for exchange made by the New York firm of E. Waterman & Co.
516
Apr. 13 (253) From the Ambassador in Argentina
Memorandum by the Commercial Attaché (text printed) relating to a suggestion for the compensation of American fruit shipments to Argentina with Argentine fruit shipments to the United States.
516
May 1 From the Assistant to the Chief of the Division of Latin American Affairs to the Chief of the Division
Summary of five reports from the Commercial Attaché in Argentina with regard to exchange problems.
518
May 4 (1696) From the Consul General at Buenos Aires
Substance of reports obtained from the management of American banks in Argentina, and advice of a plan under consideration by the Finance Minister which will unblock all remaining frozen exchange and which will be made available to importers of all nationalities.
519
May 11 (48) To the Ambassador in Argentina (tel.)
Instructions to report additional details of Finance Minister’s proposal and opinion as to feasibility of the plan.
520
May 11 (76) From the Chargé in Argentina (tel.)
Advice that no further details of proposal are available at this time, and opinion that no U. S. action would appear desirable at present.
521
May 16 (49) To the Ambassador in Argentina (tel.)
Instructions to prepare in collaboration with the Consul General a report which will include specific information on five points raised by the Department in regard to blocked peso balances.
521
May 18 (283) From the Ambassador in Argentina
Submission of report requested by the Department covering each of the five points.
522
June 8 (310) From the Ambassador in Argentina
Advice that no further developments have occurred in the situation concerning blocked peso balances.
523
June 30 (107) To the Ambassador in Argentina
Notification of the forthcoming visit to Buenos Aires and certain other South American capitals of John H. Williams, economist of the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, and of the purpose of his mission on foreign exchange problems.
524
July 28 (117) To the Ambassador in Argentina
Receipt of numerous inquiries from American holders of blocked accounts in Argentina as to the proposed future policy of the U. S. Government in the matter; list of questions to be considered in consultations with Mr. Williams during his visit in Argentina.
525
July 31 (367) From the Ambassador in Argentina
Information of Mr. Williams’ arrival in Buenos Aires and of the efforts being made to assist him in appraisal of the exchange situation.
527
Aug. 3 (372) From the Ambassador in Argentina
Memorandum prepared by Mr. Williams, August 3 (text printed), setting forth his views and conclusions regarding the U. S. exchange position in Argentina.
528
Aug. 13 (380) From the Ambassador in Argentina
Joint conclusions of the Consul General and the Ambassador on the question of blocked peso accounts; transmission of Mr. Williams’ report, August 10 (text printed), on the series of questions submitted in Department’s No. 117, July 28.
533
Oct. 5 (143) To the Ambassador in Argentina
Transmittal of copies of the final report made by Mr. Williams upon conclusion of his mission of investigation of American foreign exchange problems in Brazil, Argentina, Chile, and Uruguay; request for any comments or views on matters treated in the report.
537
Nov. 12 (483) From the Ambassador in Argentina
Information substantiating the view that Argentina is using her exchange restrictions as a means of exacting a reciprocal trade agreement with the United States.
537

Engagement of American Naval Officers by the Argentine Navy Department To Serve as Instructors in the Argentine Naval War College

[Page LVIII]
Date and number Subject Page
1934 Mar. 10 (204) From the Ambassador in Argentina
Request for Department’s comment on the report that Argentine naval circles are considering the possibility of engaging two American naval officers to act as instructors in the proposed Argentine naval war college.
539
Mar. 29 (65) To the Ambassador in Argentina
Information that Department would view the matter favorably and would facilitate selection of the officers should a formal request be made by the Argentine Government.
539
June 21 (55) To the Ambassador in Argentina (tel.)
Instructions to advise Foreign Minister that the President will be happy to offer the services of three American naval officers should this offer be agreeable to the Argentine Government.
540
June 22 (90) From the Ambassador in Argentina (tel.)
Foreign Minister’s intention to submit U. S. offer to the President of Argentina.
540
July 5 (98) From the Ambassador in Argentina (tel.)
Argentine acceptance in principle of offer of services of three American naval officers.
541
1935 Jan. 5 From the Secretary of the Navy
Advice of the appointment of naval officers who will serve as instructors at the Argentine Naval War College and of their signature of personal contracts with the Argentine Government.
541

BRAZIL

Negotiations Respecting a Reciprocal Trade Agreement Between the United States and Brazil

[Page LIX][Page LX]
Date and number Subject Page
1934 Jan. 3 (2) To the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Inquiry as to what progress is being made in regard to the proposed trade agreement between the United States and Brazil.
542
Jan. 6 (3) From the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Brazilian view with respect to the trade agreement, as outlined by the Foreign Office.
542
May 5 (118) To the Ambassador in Cuba
Reply to inquiry as to whether a certain provision in the pending U. S. tariff bill means that no duty might be placed on Brazilian coffee.
543
June 20 (61) To the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Instructions to discuss plans for negotiating the proposed trade agreement with Oswaldo Aranha, expected to come to Washington as Ambassador in the near future, and to ascertain latest plans as to the time of his arrival.
544
June 21 (119) From the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Advice that Aranha expects to leave for Washington within a few weeks, that he will be accompanied by experts, and will have full powers to negotiate the agreement.
(Footnote: Aranha’s arrival in Washington September 13.)
545
July 20 To the Brazilian Embassy
Notification that in view of the enactment of a new Brazilian tariff it will be necessary for the United States to prepare a redraft of the trade agreement and schedules submitted to Brazil in 1933.
545
Aug. 14 (107) To the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Instructions to ascertain whether legislative approval of the proposed agreement will be necessary in Brazil, and if so, when the Brazilian Congress could be expected to take action on the agreement if it is signed by the end of the year.
546
Aug. 15 (174) From the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Advice that legislative approval is necessary; that present legislature may adjourn on December 31.
546
Aug. 29 (115) To the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Instructions to inform Brazilian Government that Department plans to give public notice shortly of the U. S. intention to negotiate a trade agreement with Brazil.
547
Undated From the Brazilian Embassy
Memorandum of observations in regard to the tariff question, submitted to Assistant Secretaries of State Welles and Sayre.
547
Oct. 30 To the Brazilian Embassy
Proposal that clauses relating to exchange control be included in the trade agreement, and that a joint declaration of policy with respect to clearing and compensation agreements be made by the U. S. and Brazilian Governments upon conclusion of their trade agreement.
549
Oct. 31 Memorandum by the Chief of the Division of Latin American Affairs
Views expressed by Aranha on the U. S. proposal regarding exchange control.
552
Nov. 10 To the Brazilian Embassy
Presentation of a list of the specific tariff concessions being sought by the United States on commodities exported to Brazil.
554
Nov. 12 Memorandum by the Assistant Secretary of State
Discussion with Aranha of the list of tariff concessions requested by the United States, and of attempts being made by Germany to negotiate a trade agreement with Brazil.
555
Nov. 12 Memorandum by the Economic Adviser
Conversation with Mr. Muniz, Special Assistant to Aranha, during which he was given an explanation of the U. S. proposals relating to treatment of the exchange control situation.
557
Nov. 24 To the Brazilian Embassy
U. S. hope that, upon satisfactory conclusion of the present negotiations, Brazil will be willing to address a note to the United States indicating its intention to proceed with the gradual relinquishment of exchange control.
558
Nov. 24 To the Brazilian Embassy
Draft reciprocal trade agreement with Brazil, and draft joint declaration of policy with respect to clearing and compensation agreements (texts printed).
558
Dec. 6 Memorandum by the Economic Adviser
Conversation between Mr. Muniz and Department officials in regard to his inquiry concerning a reported arrangement for the sale of American cotton to Germany, and discussion of his views on the general questions of policy as formulated in the draft commercial agreement and joint declaration.
568
Dec. 8 Memorandum by the Chief of the Trade Agreements Section
Conversation with Mr. Muniz and Mr. Penteado of the Brazilian Embassy concerning the extent to which the U. S. proposed joint statement is to be interpreted as precluding any types of arrangements which Brazil may make with European Governments for the protection of her trade with Europe.
570
Dec. 11 Memorandum by the Chief of the Trade Agreements Section
Desire of Mr. Muniz for an early clarification of the U. S. intention toward the proposed cotton arrangement with Germany.
571
Undated Memorandum Handed by the Brazilian Ambassador to the Economic Adviser, Circa December 18, 1934
Detailed statement of Brazilian views on the U. S. proposed establishment, through the projected treaty with Brazil, of a more liberal commercial policy as opposed to the prevailing universal adoption of compensation arrangements.
571
Dec. 27 Memorandum by the Economic Adviser
Conversation with Mr. Muniz during which he presented various points raised by his Government in regard to the general clauses of the U. S. draft agreement.
575
Dec. 28 From the Brazilian Embassy
Brazilian views on that part of the U. S. proposal relating to reciprocal tariff facilities.
577

Efforts of the Department of State and Private Firms To Secure Equitable Treatment for American Interests With Respect to Brazilian Exchange Restrictions

[Page LXI][Page LXII][Page LXIII]
Date and number Subject Page
1934 Mar. 7 Memorandum by Mr. Alexander K. Sloan of the Office of the Economic Adviser
Conversation with Eugene P. Thomas, President of the National Foreign Trade Council, and Richard P.Momsen, Chairman of the Legislative Committee of the American Chamber of Commerce for Brazil, concerning the treatment accorded U. S. commerce under the Brazilian exchange control, and the situation in regard to excessive Brazilian imports resulting in the accumulation of a large sum of frozen milreis.
578
Mar. 13 (40) From the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Report that Souza Dantas, who has been friendly in the past to American interests, will succeed Figueiredo as the new foreign exchange director of the Bank of Brazil.
579
Mar. 27 From the Chairman of the Council on Inter-American Relations, Inc.
Outline of present American position in regard to the exchange situation in Brazil, and suggestions as to matters which require official attention in any discussions of reciprocal trade agreements with that country.
579
Apr. 5 Memorandum by the Economic Adviser
Conference between Department officials and others, at which Mr. Boucas, Brazilian delegate to the World Economic Conference, outlined an idea involving extension of a revolving credit by one of the Export-Import Banks to the Bank of Brazil.
582
Apr. 9 (36) To the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Instructions to prepare, in cooperation with the Consul General, a comprehensive report on the treatment accorded American commerce under the Brazilian exchange control.
582
Apr. 24 (67) From the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Advice that inquiries in regard to the exchange problem are being actively pursued but that much delay has been encountered in securing information from Brazilian sources and in obtaining facts and views of the American business community.
584
May 26 (102) From the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Personal impressions of the administration of foreign exchange control.
584
May 31 (106) From the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Information that comprehensive report requested by the Department is being forwarded; also that, while it is too early to pronounce judgment, there are hopeful indications of improved treatment of American interests.
586
June 30 (74) To the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Advice that Department has studied with interest the report and recommendations prepared by the Embassy and believes the occasion favorable for developing an understanding with Brazilian authorities; notification of the forthcoming visit to Brazil and other South American countries of John H. Williams, economist of the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, and of the purpose of his mission.
586
July 20 From Mr. John H. Williams, on Special Mission to Certain South American Countries
Submission of a preliminary report on the Brazilian exchange problem and advice concerning content of the final report.
587
Aug. 31 (410) From the Ambassador in Brazil
Information that Ministry of War has recently signed contracts with certain European Governments for the purchase of armaments and other equipment; that the matter in its relation to the exchange problem was discussed with Dr. Souza Dantas, who pointed out that, in a measure, this was simply a means of liquidating Brazil’s frozen assets in the countries in question.
588
Sept. 13 (424) From the Ambassador in Brazil
Information in regard to new regulations concerning Brazilian foreign exchange operations issued by the Bank of Brazil on September 10, and belief that the move is in line with the Government’s general policy of gradually breaking away from exchange control.
590
Sept. 20 (132) To the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Request for additional information in connection with Brazilian arrangements for the purchase of armaments and other equipment from European countries.
591
Sept. 25 (238) From the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Detailed information in answer to questions raised by the Department, and advice that Souza Dantas is contemplating an exchange arrangement with Germany.
592
Oct. 1 (141) To the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Instructions to apprise appropriate Brazilian authorities of Department’s interest in the contemplated exchange arrangement with Germany.
594
Oct. 2 (142) To the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Instructions to obtain totals of U. S. and other deferred credits in Brazil as well as information in regard to applications for official exchange and accumulation of funds.
594
Oct. 9 (152) To the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Request for any information available concerning the Brazilian-German negotiations.
595
Oct. 10 (273) From the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Information from the Acting Foreign Minister that conversations with the Germans are merely of an exploratory nature and that no commitment will be made to Germany until agreement is reached with the United States.
595
Oct. 10 (274) From the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Advice concerning developments in the Brazilian-German conversations.
595
Oct. 16 (284) From the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Submission of estimates in reply to Department’s telegram No. 142, October 2.
596
Oct. 20 (157) To the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Request for comment on a press statement by the Federal Foreign Trade Council implying that Brazilian imports from Germany receive exchange cover more promptly than those from the United States.
597
Oct. 22 (298) From the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Detailed information refuting the implication that Germany is receiving preferential treatment in the furnishing of exchange.
597
Dec. 4 (178) To the Chargé in Brazil (tel.)
Instructions to ascertain the truth, if any, in a New York Times report of an announcement by the Bank of Brazil that, effective immediately, it will grant only 46 percent of dollar exchange on imports from the United States.
599
Dec. 4 (330) From the Chargé in Brazil (tel.)
Transmission of circular letter (text printed) sent by the Bank of Brazil to all banks operating in the country setting forth the new application tables for distribution of exchange.
599
Dec. 5 (331) From the Chargé in Brazil (tel.)
Information that under the new Brazilian exchange allocation system, which will allow the United States to receive 46 percent cover for her imports, it is estimated tha the entire U. S. backlog will be automatically liquidated within 1 year.
600
Dec. 5 (179) To the Chargé in Brazil (tel.)
Request for information as to motives underlying the Bank of Brazil decree.
601
Dec. 6 (333) From the Chargé in Brazil (tel.)
Information that Brazilian officials believe that decree will be more in harmony with Brazil’s foreign trade situation and with her proper fundamental policy.
601
Dec. 6 (180) To the Chargé in Brazil (tel.)
Instructions to ascertain from Souza Dantas whether the new system is to be regarded as a step in preparation of further relaxation and eventual removal of exchange control.
601
Dec. 7 (334) From the Chargé in Brazil (tel.)
Souza Dantas’ reasons for regarding the new regulations as constituting a step in preparation for further relaxation and eventual removal of exchange control.
602

Efforts To Secure Equitable Treatment for American Creditors in the Servicing of Brazilian Federal. State, and Municipal Debts

[Page LXIV][Page LXV]
Date and number Subject Page
1934 Jan. 2 (1) To the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
For Reuben Clark from the Executive Committee of the Foreign Bondholders Protective Council: Detailed instructions to Council’s representative, now in Brazil, in connection with discussions of the Brazilian Government’s proposed plan for the servicing of her national, state, and municipal obligations; suggested modifications of plan with reasons therefor.
602
Jan. 4 (2) From the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
For Executive Committee from Clark: Suggestion, for consideration of the Council and the Department, that the latter assure the Brazilian Government that in the event that an arrangement is reached at Rio, the claims of any bondholders found to be based merely on dissatisfaction with such arrangement would not be supported.
606
Jan. 8 (4) To the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Advice that Department has informed Executive Committee of its belief that hereafter communication with Clark should be made directly, rather than through the Embassy, except in case of urgent necessity.
607
Jan. 8 (5) To the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
From Executive Committee for Clark: Advice concerning basis of negotiation which Council desires to have pursued in discussions with the Brazilian Government, and reference to Department’s possible attitude toward any plan worked out by the Council.
607
Jan. 9 (6) From the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Advice that Embassy has taken no part in Clark’s negotiations with the exception of transmitting telegrams for account of the Council of Bondholders.
608
Jan. 10 (7) From the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
From Clark for Executive Committee: Advice concerning present legal status of the Brazilian Government, and statistics on Government’s revenue, budget, and debt service.
608
Jan. 11 (6) To the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Explanation of relations existing between the Council and the Department.
610
[Jan.] 22 (5) From the Executive Committee of the Foreign Bondholders Protective Council, Inc., to the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
For Clark: Concern of American issue houses in regard to further reduction of the sinking fund for service of the coffee realization loan.
611
Jan. 23 (13) From the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
From Clark: Information concerning amendments to the original Brazilian exchange service plan which will be included in a decree to be issued by the Government shortly.
612
Jan. 24 (6) From the Executive Committee of the Foreign Bondholders Protective Council, Inc., to the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
For Clark: Committee’s desire to revert to proposal under the original Brazilian plan regarding amortization of the coffee realization loan.
614
Jan. 25 (14) From the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
For Executive Committee from Clark: Advice that Brazilian decree has been redrafted and that its terms will be transmitted as soon as obtained; submission of various points to be considered in regard to modification of the coffee loan.
615
Jan. 25 (15) From the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Advice of Clark’s receipt of a telegram from the Bondholders Committee which has tended to undermine his position with the Brazilian negotiators.
616
Jan. 26 (11) To the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
For Clark: Information that Committee defers to Clark’s judgment in regard to the realization loan.
617
Jan. 27 (13) To the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Advice that cable to Clark referred to in telegram No. 15, January 25, was sent without Department’s knowledge.
617
Jan. 31 (14) To the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
For Clark from Executive Committee: Inquiry as to status of the proposed decree; also as to whether Clark plans to sail for the United States February 1.
618
Feb. 1 (23) From the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Request that Committee be informed of Clark’s departure from Rio February 1, and of his receipt of a copy of the final text of the decree.
618
Feb. 1 (24) From the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
From Clark: Detailed information concerning contents of the Brazilian decree.
618
Feb. 2 (15) To the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Instructions to ascertain date of Brazilian publication of the plan in order that the Executive Committee may make a suitable announcement on the same day.
622
Feb. 3 (25) From the Ambassador in Brazil (tel.)
Advice that decree will be signed February 5 and will be published on the following day.
623

Agreement Between the United States and Brazil for a Military Mission to Brazil, Signed May 10, 1934, and Supplementary Agreement by Exchange of Notes

Date and number Subject Page
1933 Dec. 11 From the Brazilian Embassy
Request for U. S. designation of two Army officers, specialists in coast artillery, to serve as instructors in the Brazilian Army Center of Instruction.
623
1934 Jan. 18 Memorandum by the Chief of the Division of Latin American Affairs
Conversation with Brazilian Ambassador, who was told that the War Department was agreeable to his Government’s request, and that as soon as the two officers had been selected the matter would be taken up with the President.
624
Apr. 9 From the Secretary of War
Transmission of redrafted text of a contract submitted by the Brazilian Government for the services of U. S. officers, and names of officers selected.
(Footnote: Redrafted text, without change, signed May 10.)
624
May 8 To the Brazilian Ambassador
Information that the Secretary of War has designated the two Army officers requested by the Brazilian Government.
625
May 10 Agreement Between the Governments of the United States of America and the United States of Brazil Providing for a Military Mission to Brazil
Text signed at Washington.
625
June 8 To the Brazilian Chargé
Advice that the War Department has approved a Brazilian request for U. S. designation of an Army officer to serve as professor of permanent fortifications in the Brazilian Army’s course in Technical Construction; suggestion that the agreement of May 10 be amended by an exchange of notes so as to provide for the services of such officer.
630
June 26 (67) From the Brazilian Chargé
Brazilian approval of War Department’s choice of an Army officer, and proposal that the officer’s contract be considered as an addition to the agreement.
631
July 21 To the Brazilian Chargé
U. S. statement of its understanding with the Brazilian Government relative to designation of the Army officer.
631
July 23 (75) From the Brazilian Chargé
Brazilian acceptance of U. S. understanding.
632