855.852/38: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Ambassador in Panama (Dawson)
39. Your 34, February 28, 4 p.m. According to the Department’s information, attorneys for the Belgian Government base their contention that Belgian consent is required on Article 12, Panamanian Law no. 8 of 1925. The Gulf Oil Corporation was informed in writing by the Panamanian Consul General at New Orleans that the vessels were registered with full knowledge of Article 12, and that it is sufficient to present the Bill of Sale witnessed by a notary in the country where the owner lives.
The foregoing is submitted for your information and it is not desired that you make representations to the Panamanian Government on this point.