834.01/14: Telegram
The Ambassador in Brazil (Gibson) to the Secretary of State
[Received March 2—6:15 p.m.]
85. Italian Ambassador here has shown me telegram from Italian Minister at Asunción who reports that Colonel Franco has made strong appeal to him through his Minister for Foreign Affairs for immediate recognition. In answer to the Italian Minister’s inquiry as to whether the new Government would respect the Chaco agreements, it was answered that two delegates would be sent to Buenos Aires, which would appear to be somewhat evasive. Asked whether Colonel Franco proposed to wipe out Communism, it was said that he was opposed to Communist activities but could not combat it or come out with any clear public declaration at this time because of internal difficulties but proposed to do so later.