-CONFIDENTIAL-
(Classification)
DEPARTMENT OF STATE
INR BRIEFING NOTE
GIST: PANAMA: Ambassador Holds Talk With President-Elect Arias
TO: [redacted]
The Director, INR
DATE: June 6, 1968
TIME: 8:00 A.M.
COMMENTS CONTAINED IN INR BRIEFING NOTES ARE INITIAL AND TENTATIVE.
SOURCE(S)
Panama 3610
June 5, 1968
CLASS./CONTROL(S)
Confidential
On invitation from Mr. Arnulfo Arias, the Ambassador went to the President-elect's home and engaged in conversation concerning Panamanian-US relations. Arias expressed his desire to build cordial relations between Panama and the US and the Canal Zone. He recognized the need for political stability in Panama and voiced the hope that the electoral system could be improved in the future to avoid many of the unfortunate events of the recent campaign. Arias deplored the tone and tactics of the local news media and declared his intention of meeting with them in the future to discuss "raising the moral level of the local media." He commented on the importance of maintaining continuous progress in AID programs and alluded to the possible need for budgetary support. The local press later learned of the meeting and the Embassy issued a short statement.
INR/RAR Comment: It appears that Arias is indeed anxious to have good relations with the US. He made several overtures to the Ambassador before the elections and has tried to be somewhat more responsible in his public comments concerning the US. It will be much more difficult, however, once the Canal treaties come up for renegotiation. He is slightly more vulnerable to nationalistic elements, as many believe that the US helped insure his election. In order not to appear to be the "US man" he will have to demonstrate his Panamenismo at the same time. His statement on the radio broadcasts refers to the wild Yankee baiting which has been encouraged by the pro-Samudio camp. Many of the stations are now reportedly in the hands of pro-communists who have used the charge of US intervention in the elections to good advantage.
INR OFFICE
BRIEFER
EXTENSION
[redacted]
RAR
Smith
5028
-CONFIDENTIAL-
(Classification)
FORM DS-1118
6-66
NW 31097 DocId:33061196 Page 129