Messersmith, G.S., Buenos Aires. Despatch No. 1196 to Secretary of State [James F. Byrnes], Washington.
Date
1946-11-12
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
University of Delaware Library, Museums and Press
Abstract
Description
Because of establishment of an Argentine government owned oil company, American oil interests in Argentina feel themselves threatened; talked with Herman A. Metzger of Standard Oil Argentina and Theodore A. Post of UltraMarch Petrolera Argentina, the two principal American oil interests in Argentina; both expressed concern; their companies afraid to expand or invest additional capital because of uncertainty of their future in Argentina; in conversation with Perón discussed oil situation; mentioned to him importance of fuel in his plans for industrial development; pointed out Argentina has little coal, but valuable oil deposits only partially developed; compared situation with that of Mexico; since expropriation of foreign oil companies there, the Mexican oil company had not been able to cope with problem or further develop her oil resources and Mexico now having to import gasoline; Perón concluded foreign companies should be given every encouragement, and asked if American companies might consider a partnership arrangement with Argentine Government; told him it was likely if they were given sufficient guarantees; Metzger reported he had talked with Perón and was leaving shortly for U.S. to talk with his company about forming a mixed company in Argentina; suggested he also visit State Department and talk with [William L.] Clayton and [Spruille] Braden.
Keywords
Messersmith, George S. (George Strausser), 1883-1960.