320/1–1052: Telegram
The Acting Chairman of the United States Delegation to the General Assembly (Roosevelt) to the Secretary of State
priority
Delga 960. Human Rights Covenant. In conversation with Daza Ondarza of Bolivia1 today, he confidentially advised Mrs. Roosevelt [Page 771] he had just reed instructions from FonOff vote for single covenant on human rights. He expressed thought that request was very likely made to his govt by another govt to vote for single covenant. He feels it would be difficult to explain action of his FonOff on any other grounds.
Daza Ondarza urged Dept approach all FonOffs in LA, including Bolivia FonOff, through US Embassies to counteract request to these FonOffs for support single covenant.
USGADel has not yet found that any other LA del has recd instructions similar to those of Bolivia and considers any general approach in other capitals undesirable.
Daza Ondarza is wiring FonOff immediately to point out arguments presented him by Mrs. Roosevelt for two covenants. He indicated appreciation for simultaneous support for US position through Dept. We suggest Dept may wish instruct Embassy La Paz in its discretion bring foregoing to attn FonOff and explain briefly our reasons for supporting two covenants.
Vote on two covenant issue is close in GA. Single vote may be decisive. Vote expected in committee Friday or Saturday, January 11 or 12.
- Ernesto Daza Ondarza, Minister in the Permanent Delegation of Bolivia to the United Nations, member of the Bolivian Delegation to the General Assembly.↩