AWORLD Meeting in Panama, 7-8 June 1964

SUBJECT: AMWORLD/1's Political Reporting

1. I reminded Subject that in the past we had frequently pressed him to keep us abreast of his political activities with particular emphasis upon relations with the host government in Central America. The response to our urgings had been increasingly disappointing and of late reached the vanishing point. Since it was not curiosity that had prompted us to ask for timely reporting but a desire to be of service in protecting the rear, we were now wondering whether it would not be best to leave the determination whether or not to submit political reports to him rather than continue supporting him which was beginning to place us in a slightly ridiculous position. AMWORLD/1 pleaded over-work in excuse of his failure to provide timely reporting and we resisted the temptation to point to other more likely causes of mental and physical fatigue.

2. As of now we believe to have reached a clear understanding with AMWORLD/1 that we always stand ready to come to his succor if a political crisis or problem arises and is timely signalled to us. Silence will be construed by us as an indication that "all is well."

Henry D. Hecksher
W/4/30/HH

File:
Policy
SOI

SECRET