710 Consultation 4/7–347: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Embassy in Brazil
us urgent
720. At meeting of Governing Board PAU yesterday acting Brazilian representative presented communication that his Government was inviting all other American Governments with which it maintains diplomatic relations to attend Rio Conference opening August 15. Long and fruitless debate ensued on question of whether right of any member of PAU to participate in Inter-American Conferences could be subject to question of recognition of its Government. Nicaragua was not mentioned directly but entire debate of course concerned it.21 Brazilian acting representative withdrew communication as result of developments.
[Page 11]Department today discussed problem with Brazilian Minister-Counselor and acting representative, in absence of Ambassadors Martins22 and Muniz,23 making it clear that its only interest was to avoid difficulties and ascertain Brazil’s position in hope of being able to support it effectively. It was suggested that, at same time as Brazil notified other American Governments except Nicaragua of date now selected, it consult other Governments as to whether they feel that Nicaragua should participate in Conference in view of fact that Lacayo Sacasa regime is recognized by no other American Government and of unsettled situation in Nicaragua. When Brazilians suggested that this consultation could be carried out in effect in Governing Board it was pointed out that this would bring danger of continued unavailing debate with possibility of issue becoming involved and cause delay since presumably members of Governing Board would have to request instructions from their Governments. Direct consultation would have virtue of quickly establishing consensus of Governments. After some discussion, Brazilians agreed that Department’s suggestion was only practical solution and offered to present it to their Government.
In event that consensus is that Nicaragua should be represented further question would arise as to which Nicaraguan, Lacayo Sacasa or Argüello, should be notified of date. This could properly be subject of further consultation. Presumably, if Lacayo Sacasa regime were to be represented, notification would have to be made by PAU since neither Brazil nor any other American Government now recognizes it. However, at this stage such possibilities are purely speculative and Department hopes that Brazil will see its way clear to following suggestion outlined in second paragraph as best approach to solving present stage of Nicaraguan participation problem.
Please explain Department’s position to Foreign Minister and report his reaction promptly.