Office of the Historian

122. Telegram From the Ambassador in Panama (Chapin) to the Department of State1

Panama City, April 5, 1955—1 p.m.

386. This morning I called on Foreign Minister Octavio Fabrega at his request. Fabrega states he wishes visit Washington for one day during week April 11 pay his respects to Secretary Dulles and confer with Assistant Secretary Holland. Purpose visit urge early submission Treaty to Senate. Reasons for early ratification given by Fabrega are: Importance to Panamanian economy, stability of Government and desire that Treaty be completed in “aur” of Remon Administration before next election campaign starts here. I believe most important factor in Fabrega’s reasoning is “stability” which he feels would be engendered by demonstration US confidence in Arias Administration by Treaty’s early ratification.

I stressed necessity paying Panama Canal water bill2 and balance claims before submission Treaty to Senate. Fabrega stated sending notes on both subjects Embassy today.

Fabrega requests Embassy be advised when appointment can be made for him with Holland and if possible with Secretary.

Chapin
  1. Source: Department of State, Central Files, 611.1913/4–555. Confidential.↩
  2. Reference is to unpaid accounts for water service due to the Panama Canal Company and Canal Zone Government by the Panamanian Government. The water bill issue was summarized in despatch 484 from Panama City, April 14. (Ibid., 611.1913/4–1455)↩