715.1715/784: Telegram
The Minister in Honduras (Erwin) to the Secretary of State
[Received 6:31 p.m.]
95. Referring to your telegram No. 38, October 23, 3 p.m. and my telegram No. 94, October 23, 6 p.m.53 the Foreign Minister expresses [Page 99] gratification of Honduran Government at designation of Dr. Corrigan as Special Representative on behalf of United States Government. The Foreign Minister expressed high personal regard for Dr. Corrigan.
As to meeting place Foreign Minister expresses preference for Washington over San José for the following reasons: first, large colony of approximately 25,000 Nicaraguans residing in Costa Rica would possibly exercise a pro-Nicaraguan or disturbing influence; second, uncontrolled radio and press in Costa Rica and proximity to the two countries involved would probably agitate population of both Honduras and Nicaragua with almost daily unauthenticated reports of trend of negotiations and thus increase difficulties of responsible heads of Honduras and Nicaragua in quieting agitation pending settlement; third, all records of previous negotiations and discussions are more accessible in Washington to all parties concerned.
The Foreign Minister suggested as alternative in event there is good reason for Washington not being selected, that another country further removed than Costa Rica from internal politics of two disputants be selected.
The Foreign Minister will take up immediately with the President naming of Honduran representative, and, in this connection asks the privilege of naming as many as two representatives if Honduras finds this desirable.
The question of preventing inflammatory statements in Honduran press and radio is being taken up by the Foreign Minister with the President, so that assurances may be secured.
- Latter not printed.↩