611.14/5–1450: Telegram

The Chargé in Guatemala to the Secretary of State

confidential

170. Deptel 119, May 12.1 Assistant Secretary Miller’s visit no doubt will be given sinister propaganda twist by extremists, will be exploited by government to show good relations not impaired by so called Patterson affair, and may confound opposition, but Embassy believes this offset by opportunity for frank talks with top level officials re matters adversely affecting US-Guatemalan relations. If Guatemala omitted from itinerary which includes neighboring countries might be interpreted as policy aloofness tantamount political [Page 888] sanctions and propagandized as proof US Government role in alleged “reactionary plot” against Arévalo regime. Moreover, visit seems consistent policy outlined Deptel 115, May 5; whereas skipping Guatemala could be taken as deliberate slight lumping government and pro-Communists together with probable result increasing present tension.

Unless meantime new United Fruit conflict (Embtel 168, May 8)2 develops into such crisis visit likely to be interpreted as diplomatic intervention, Embassy considers Miller visit desirable as excellent opportunity for constructive effort improve Guatemalan understanding our policy and attitude. Any date convenient.

Wells
  1. In this telegram the Department had in part requested the Embassy’s opinion regarding the advisability of Mr. Miller including Guatemala on his itinerary during his projected visit to Central America. (611.14/5–1250)
  2. The Embassy had reported in telegram 168 that the company had on May 8 submitted to the Government notice of its intent to abandon all its plantations on the north coast of Guatemala due to force majeure. “Storm damages had already caused step be contemplated … and final decision made in atmosphere of labor contract stalemate in negotiations with SETUF Company union … over disguised closed shop issue with prospects issue be thrown into court by labor inspector.” (814.062/5–850) SETUF stood for Sindicato de Empresa de Trabajadores de la United Fruit.