740.00112A European War 1939/676
Memorandum of Conversation, by Mr. John Melby of the Division of the American Republics
| Participants: | Señor Vicente Illingworth, Ecuadoran Minister of Finance |
| The Ambassador of Ecuador6 | |
| Mr. Geist7–DCA | |
| Mr. Melby–RA |
The Minister explained that the proclaimed list of certain blocked nationals is working a hardship commercially on Ecuador. He also stated his belief that 25 per cent of the names now on the list for Ecuador have been so placed on inadequate, inaccurate and false information. He does not dispute the necessity for such a list but rather concurs in the necessity therefor. He does, however, suggest that it would be more equitable if the consent of the Ecuadoran Government were secured in each instance before the name is placed on the list and announced by this Government.
Mr. Geist thanked him for his suggestions and assured him that they would receive full consideration by this Government, that it is to be anticipated that certain injustices might be done, but that the Department was continually working to eliminate them and make the list as fair as possible. He also explained the purpose of the list. The Minister concurred with what he said, but reiterated his desire that the Government of Ecuador be consulted in all instances and promised full cooperation in any such undertaking which he said could be successful only on the basis of full and mutual understanding.