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SECRET PAGE 01 CARACA 11634 01 OF 06 122110Z POSS DUPE ACTION ARA-15 INFO OCT-01 ISO-00 MMO-01 SIG-03 CIAE-00 DODE-00 PM-05 H-01 INR-10 L-03 NSAE-00 NSC-05 PA-01 SP-02 SS-15 ICA-11 HA-05 EB-08 OMB-01 TRSE-00 COME-00 DOE-15 SOE-02 IO-14 AID-05 LAB-04 SIL-01 ACDA-12 OES-09 DLOS-09 STR-07 MCT-02 SNM-05 /172 W ------------------110923 132016Z /64 P R 121900Z DEC 78 FM AMEMBASSY CARACAS TO SECSTATE WASHDC PRIORITY 4984 INFO USCINCSOUTH QUARRY HEIGHTS CZ S E C R E T SECTION 1 OF 6 CARACAS 11634 CINCSOUTH FOR POLAD E.O. 12065: XDS-3 12/12/88 (FRECHETTE, MYLES) OR-P TAGS: OGEN AMGT PEPR VE SUBJECT: US GOALS, OBJECTIVES AND RESOURCE MANAGEMENT (GORM) FOR FY 81- VENEZUELA REFS: (A) STATE 311709, (B) STATE 310335, (C) STATE 306264, (D) STATE 302322, (E) CARACAS 11252, (F) STATE 291805, (G) STATE 287307, (ALL NOTAL) FOLLOWING IS FOUR-PART SUBMISSION REQUESTED REFTEL G: PART I. BASIC U.S. INTERESTS OUR FUNDAMENTAL INTERESTS IN VENEZUELA ARE: 1. THAT VENEZUELA CONTINUE TO SUPPLY A SIGNIFICANT PORTION OF OUR PETROLEUM IMPORTS AND CONTINUE TO FOLLOW A MODERATE AND RESPONSIBLE OIL PRICE POSITION IN OPEC; 2. THAT VENEZUELA, AS ONE OF THE FEW VIABLE LATIN AMERICAN SECRET SECRET PAGE 02 CARACA 11634 01 OF 06 122110Z POSS DUPE DEMOCRACIES, IS WILLING TO SPEAK OUT ON HUMAN RIGHTS AND DEMOCRATIC FREEDOMS; 3. THAT VENEZUELA CONTINUE TO BE AN IMPORTANT MARKET FOR US EXPORTS AND THAT US BUSINESS BE TREATED EQUITABLY; 4. THAT VENEZUELA MAINTAIN POSITIONS IN MULTILATERAL FORA THAT Sheryl P. Walter Declassified/Released US Department of State EO Systematic Review 20 Mar 2014 Sheryl P. Walter Declassified/Released US Department of State EO Systematic Review 20 Mar 2014 EITHER SUPPORT OUR POSITIONS OR ARE NON-CONFRONTATIONAL AND WITHIN LIMITS THE US CAN ACCEPT (COMMON FUND, LOS). PART II. IMPLEMENTATION OF CURRENTLY AGREED UPON GOALS AND OBJECTIVES (NOTE: FOR CLARITY AND TO HAVE A EOCUMENT WHICH WILL STAND ON ITS OWN, THE EMBASSY IS LISTING EACH OBJECTIVE UNDER THE GOAL RUBRICS AS SHOWN IN STATE 036563.) I. STRENGTHENED RESPECT FOR BASIC HUMAN RIGHTS AND DEMOCRACY. 1. ENCOURAGE VENEZUELAN LEADERSHIP TO PRESS OTHER COUNTRIES TO SIGN AND RATIFY THE AMERICAN CONVENTION ON HUMAN RIGHTS AND SUPPORT THE INTER-AMERICAN COMMISSION ON HUMAN RIGHTS. --THE EMBASSY HAS CONSULTED WITH THE VENEZUELANS CONCERNING THE AMERICAN HUMAN RIGHTS CONVENTION. WHILE THE GOV AGREES IN PRINCIPLE, ITS OWN ABILITY TO PERSUADE OTHERS IS LIMITED. FURTHER US EFFORTS IN THIS REGARD ARE HAMPERED BECAUSE US SENTATE RATIFICATION OF THE CONVENTION IS HIGHLY UNLIKELY. BOTH COUNTRIES ARE COMMITTED TO SUPPORT OF THE IAHRC AND VENEZUELA HAS ALREADY PLEDGED FURTHER FINANCIAL RESOURCES TO IT. 2. COOPERATE WITH VENEZUELA TO STRENGTHEN THE UN HUMAN RIGHTS MACHINERY. SECRET SECRET PAGE 03 CARACA 11634 01 OF 06 122110Z POSS DUPE --DURING THE PERIOD UNDER REVIEW, THE EMBASSY WAS NOT INSTRUCTED TO DISCUSS THIS WITH THE GOV NOR DID IT RECEIVE SUFFICIENT INFORMATION FROM THE DEPARTMENT TO DO SO ON ITS OWN. 3. ASSURE THAT ALL GROUPS IN VENEZUELAN ARE CONSCIOUS OF OUR IMPARTIALITY WITH REGARD TO THE RESULT OF THE ELECTION CAMPAIGN AND INTERNAL POLITICS. --THE EMBASSY HAS BEEN SUCCESSFUL IN MAINTAINING BOTH THE IMAGE AND REALITY OF IMPARTIALITY. THE EMBASSY IS NOT AWARE OF ANY CHARGES OF USG INTERFERENCE IN THE JUST CONCLUDED PRESIDENTIAL CAMPAIGN. 4. COOPERATE WITH VENEZUELA TO STRENGHTEN ITS OWN DEMOCRACY AND ENCOURAGE OTHER DEMOCRATIC TENDENCIES WITH THE HEMISPHERE. ENCOURAGE FREEDOM OF THEPRESS AND A DEMOCRATIC LABOR MOVEMENT. --WE HAVE HAD SOME CONSIDERABLE SUCCESS CONCERNING THIS OBJECTIVE, E.G., THE DOMINICAN ELECTIONS AND INAUGURATION. ON NICARAGUA, HOWEVER, UNTIL THE US ENGAGED IN THE MEDIATION EFFORT, THERE WAS SOME DISAGREEMENT.SPECIFICALLY, THE GOV HAS CONTINUALLY URGED THE USG TO BE MORE FORCEFUL IN PRESSURING SOMOZA. NEVERTHELESS, PRESIDENT Sheryl P. Walter Declassified/Released US Department of State EO Systematic Review 20 Mar 2014 Sheryl P. Walter Declassified/Released US Department of State EO Systematic Review 20 Mar 2014 PEREZ BELIEVES THAT ONLY THE US CAN PERSUADE SOMOZA TO LEAVE. AS A RESULT, HE HAS COOPERATED WITH THE MEDIATION EFFORT AND HAS INTERCEDED NUMEROUS TIMES AT OUR REQUEST. THE EMBASSY CONTINUED TO PROMOTE GOOD WORKING RELATIONS BETWEEN VENEZUELA'S DEMOCRATIC LABOR MOVEMENT AND THE AFL-CIO AND TO SUPPORT AIFLD PROGRAMS IN VENEZUELA. II. INCREASED COOPERATION IN ENERGY RELATED MATTERS. 1. CONTINUE THE DIALOGUE ON ENERGY METTERS, INCLUDING THE INITIATION OF PERIODIC CONSULTATIONS BETWEEN RESPECTIVE ENERGY MINISTERS (HERNANDEZ-SCHLESINGER). -- MINISTER HERNANDEZ AND SECRETARY SCHLESINGER MET ON MARCH 6,1978, SECRET SECRET PAGE 04 CARACA 11634 01 OF 06 122110Z POSS DUPE AND OUR GENERAL OBJECTIVES FOR THIS INITIAL MEETING WERE ACHIEVED. THEY AGREED TO HOLD PERIODIC MEETINGS AT DIFFERENT LEVELS, INCLUDING EXCHANGES OF TECHNICAL EXPERTS TO EXAMINE POSSIBLE R&D COOPERATION. TWO GROUPS OF GOV EXPERTS HAVE SINCE VISITED THE US AND ONE GROUP OF USG EXPERTS TRAVELED TO VENEZUELA. A VISIT OF USG ENERGY POLICY OFFICIALS TO VENEZUELA HAS BEEN PLANNED FOR EARLY 1979. 2. SEEK TO EXPAND GOV'S EXISTING APPRECIATION OF THE ADVERSE IMPACT HIGH OIL PRICES HAVE ON ECONOMIC CONDITIONS AND DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMS IN LDC'S BY INCREASING IMPORT COSTS,COMPOUNEING WORLD TRADE PROBLEMS AND STIMULATING PROTECTIONIST TENDENCIES. --WE HAVE APPROACHED THE GOV PERIODICALLY REGARDING THE EFFECT OF HIGH OIL PRICES ON THE NON-OIL PRODUCING LDC'S, LARGELY IN CONNECTION WITH OUR MORE GENERAL REPRESENTATIONS ON OIL PRICES. THIS ARGUMENT CONTINUES TO BE ONE OF THE MOST EFFECTIVE IN MODERATING THE GOV'S POSITION FOR HIGHER PRICES. SECRET NNN SECRET PAGE 01 CARACA 11634 02 OF 06 122140Z POSS DUPE ACTION ARA-15 INFO OCT-01 ISO-00 MMO-01 SIG-03 CIAE-00 DODE-00 PM-05 H-01 INR-10 L-03 NSAE-00 NSC-05 PA-01 SP-02 SS-15 ICA-11 HA-05 EB-08 OMB-01 TRSE-00 COME-00 Sheryl P. Walter Declassified/Released US Department of State EO Systematic Review 20 Mar 2014 Sheryl P. Walter Declassified/Released US Department of State EO Systematic Review 20 Mar 2014 DOE-15 SOE-02 IO-14 AID-05 LAB-04 SIL-01 ACDA-12 OES-09 DLOS-09 STR-07 MCT-02 SNM-05 /172 W ------------------111366 132017Z /64 P R 121900Z DEC 78 FM AMEMBASSY CARACAS TO SECSTATE WASHDC PRIORITY 4985 INFO USCINCSOUTH QUARRY HEIGHTS CZ S E C R E T SECTION 2 OF 6 CARACAS 11634 CINCSOUTH FOR POLAD 3. CONVEY AT THE HIGHEST LEVEL OUR CONTINUED CONERN THAT PETROLEUM PRICES BE MAINTAINED AT A REASONABLE LEVEL AND THAT ADEQUATE SUPPLIES BE MADE AVAILABLE. -- WE HAVE MADE REPEATED REPRESENTATIONS TO HIGH LEVEL GOV OFFICIALS, EMPHASIZING THE NEED FOR STABLE OIL PRICES. APPROACHES STRESSING THAT ADEQUATE OIL SUPPLIES BE MADE AVAILABLE HAVE BEEN MADE TO BOTH THE GOV AND TO NATIONAL OIL INDUSTRY OFFICIALS. DURING THE NOVEMBER 1978 IRANIAN OIL SHORTFALL, NATIONAL OIL COMPANY OFFICIALS ASSURED US THEY WOULD DO THEIR BEST TO HELP MEET US SUPPLY NEEDS. WE HAVE ENCOURAGED THE CONTINUED PARTICIPATION OF US COMPANIES IN VENEZUELAN OIL DEVELOPMENT SINCE THIS HELPS TO INSURE OIL SUPPLY TO THE US. FOUR US OIL COMPANIES CONTINUE TO PROVIDE EXTENSIVE TECHNICAL SERVICES TO THE LOCAL INDUSTRY. US CONSTRUCTION COMPANIES HAVE BEEN AWARDED THE CONTRACTS FOR ALL OF THE MAJOR OIL INDUSTRY PROJECTS SINCE NATIONALIZATION, AND US DRILLING FIMRS HAVE BEEN CONTRACTED FOR THE THREE OFFSHORE SECRET SECRET PAGE 02 CARACA 11634 02 OF 06 122140Z POSS DUPE DRILLING PROJECTS AWARDED SO FAR. A USG-SPONSORED TRADE EXHIBITION AND TECHNICAL SEMINAR DIRECTED AT THE OIL INDUSTRY WILL TAKE PLACE IN CARACAS IN JANUARY 1979. 4. FOLLOW AND REPORT ON THE PROGRESS (OR LACK OF IT) OF PRESIDENT PEREZ' PROPOSAL TO CHANNEL MONEY TO LDC'S FROM AN INCREASE IN OIL PRICES. --THIS PROPOSAL DID NOT PROSPER. 5. ENCOURAGE PROMPT AND EQUITABLE SETTLEMENT OF THE CLAIMS STILL PENDING AGAINST US FIRMS WHICH WERE AFFECTED BY THE OIL INDUSTRY NATIONALIZATION. Sheryl P. Walter Declassified/Released US Department of State EO Systematic Review 20 Mar 2014 Sheryl P. Walter Declassified/Released US Department of State EO Systematic Review 20 Mar 2014 --ONE OF THE THREE CLAIMS OUTSTANDING AGAINST THE US OIL COMPANIES SINCE NATIONALIZATION, THAT OF DEDUCTIONS FOR THE REPAIR OF PHYSICAL ASSETS, WAS SETTLED IN MARCH OF 1978. THE COMPANIES HOPE TO SETTLE THEIR MISCELLANEOUS TAX CLAIMS WITHIN THE NEXT FEW MONTHS. A FINAL DECISION ON THE COMPTROLLER'S CLAIM AND THE RETURN OF THE GUARANTEE FUND, AS WELL AS SETTLEMENT OF THE OCCIDENTAL PETROLEUM CLAIM, WILL PROBABLY BE DELAYED INTO THE NEW ADMINISTRATION, REQUIRING A CONTINUATION OF EMBASSY EFFORTS. III. NON-PROLIFERATION AND ARMS CONTROL 1. ENCOURAGE VENEZUELAN COMPLIANCE WITH ITS NPT SAFE-GUARDS OBLIGATIONS AS WELL AS ITS CONTINUED COOPERATION IN CURBING THE PROLIFERATION OF NUCLEAR WEAPONS CAPABILITIES BY URGING THE ADHERENCE OF REMAINING NON-SIGNATORIES TO THE TLATELOLCO AND NON-PROLIFERATION TREATIES. SECRET SECRET PAGE 03 CARACA 11634 02 OF 06 122140Z POSS DUPE --THE GOV HAS NOW SIGNED WITH THE IAEA, ON AN AD REFERENDUM BASIS, THE SAFEGUARDS AGREEMENT REQUIRED BY THE NPT, BUT THE AGREEMENT HAS NOT YET BEEN PRESENTED TO THE CONGRESS FOR RATIFICATION. PRESIDENT PEREZ, AT OUR REQUEST, WAS INSTRUMENTAL IN OBTANING ARGENTINE RATIFICATION OF THE TREATY OF TLATELOLCO. 2. COOPERATE WITH AND ENCOURAGE VENEZUELA IN ITS EFFORTS TO CURB CONVENTIONAL ARMS TRANSFERS, PARTICULARLY IN THE LATIN AMERICAN CONTEXT. --THE USG HAS HELD TWO MEETINGS ON CAT WITH THE VENEZUELANS, AND HAS SUPPORTED THE VENEZUELANS' OWN AYACUCHO RESTRAINT INITIATIVE. HOWEVER, AYACUCHO, A FAVORITE OF PRESIDENT PEREZ, IS NOW DORMANT BECAUSE OF WIDER SUPPORT FOR A BROADER MEXICAN INITIATIVE AND BECAUSE THE BEAGLE CHANNEL TENSION BETWEEN ARGENTINA AND CHILE MAKES IT UNREALISTIC TO CONSIDER DISARMAMENT INITIATIVES IN SOUTH AMERICA. IV. IMPROVEMENT OF BILATERAL ECONOMIC RELATIONS. IN ORDER TO RESPOND COGENTLY CONCERNING OBJECTIVES IVNOS. 1 AND 2, AND V, NOS. 1,2 AND 3, WE HAVE COMBINED OUR RESPONSES AS FOLLOWS FOR THESE OBJECTIVES: IV. 1.ENCOURAGE VENEZUELA TO IMPORT A WIDER RANGE OF PRODUCTS FROM THE US, AND SEEK TO DISCOURAGE TRADE BARRIERS, PARTICULARLY NONTARIFF BARRIERS. Sheryl P. Walter Declassified/Released US Department of State EO Systematic Review 20 Mar 2014 Sheryl P. Walter Declassified/Released US Department of State EO Systematic Review 20 Mar 2014 IV.2. REMIND THE GOV OF USG INTEREST IN THE EFFORTS OF US BUSINESS TO PARTICIPATE IN INDUSTRIAL, INFRASTRUCTURE AND OTHER PROJECTS ARISING FROM VENEZUELAN DEVELOPMENT. V. STIMULATION OF INCREASED VENEZUELAN COOPERATION ON SECRET SECRET PAGE 04 CARACA 11634 02 OF 06 122140Z POSS DUPE INTERNATIONAL ISSUES. V.1. CONTINUE CONSULTATIONS WITH VENEZUELA THAT FACILITATE A MORE COOPERATIVE RELATIONSHIP ON MULTILATERAL AND INTERNATIONAL ISSUES AND ENCOURAGE VENEZUELAN LEADERSHIP ON SUCH ISSUES. V.2. DEVELOP A CONTINUING DIALOGUE WITH PRESIDENT PEREZ AND OTHER KEY VENEZUELAN OFFICIALS ON MULTILATERAL ECONOMIC AND TRADE ISSUES. V.3. ENOURAGE VENEZUELA TO ADOPT A PRAGMATIC POSITION IN THE NORTH-SOUTH DIALOGUE. -- IN MARCH OF 1978 PRESIDENT CARTER, SECRETARY VANCE AND NSC ADVISOR BRZEZYNSKI CAME TO CARACAS FOR DISCUSSIONS OF, AMONG OTHER ITEMS, MULTILATERAL AND BILATERAL ECONOMIC ISSUES OF INTEREST TO BOTH GOVERNMENTS. IN MAY 1978 A HIGH LEVEL STR-STATE GROUP VISITED CARACAS FOR INTENSTIVE DISCUSSIONS WITH GOV OFFICIALS ON MTN. DAS SCHNEIDER CAME TO CARACAS IN AUGUST OF 1978 FOR MINISTERIAL LEVEL TALKS ON HUMAN RIGHTS. WE TOOK ADVANTAGE OF THE SITUATION TO BROADEN THE DISCUSSIONS TO INCLUDE MANY ECONOMIC ISSUES OF MUTUAL INTEREST. DURING VISITS BY REINALDO FIGUEREDO AND HECTOR HURTADO TO WASHINGTON ON OTHER BUSINESS, WE ARRANGED APPOINTMENTS WITH USG OFFICIALS FOR CONSULTATIONS. EMBASSY OFFICIALS HAVE HAD FREQUENT DISCUSSIONS WITH REPRESENTATIVES OF THE FOREIGN TRADE INSTITUTE AND PEREZ-GUERRERO'S OFFICE OF INTERNATIONAL ECONOMIC AFFAIRS. DURING ALL OF THESE CONSULTATIONS WE HAVE FOCUSED PRIMARILY ON BILATERAL TRADE ISSUES, MTN AND NORTH-SOUTH (ESPECIALLY THE COMMON FUND). SECRET SECRET PAGE 05 CARACA 11634 02 OF 06 122140Z POSS DUPE -- SPECIFICALLY REGARDING THE OBJECTIVE IV.1: THE EMBASSY AND THE US DEPT. OF COMMERCE HOSTED TRADE Sheryl P. Walter Declassified/Released US Department of State EO Systematic Review 20 Mar 2014 Sheryl P. Walter Declassified/Released US Department of State EO Systematic Review 20 Mar 2014 MISSIONS AND PRESENTED A SERIES OF EXHIBITIONS AND CATALOG SHOWS FEATURING US EQUIPMENT IN THE FIELDS OF ENERGY, CONSUMER GOODS, PRINTING AND GRAPHICS, PLASTICS AND CONCRETE CONSTRUCTION. WE HAVE ASSISTED AND ENCOURAGED THE EXIM BANK TO COLLABORATE WITH VENEZUELAN COMPANIES AND FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS, HELPING TO INSURE THAT US FIRMS CAN COMPETE ON A MORE EVEN CREDIT FOOTING. AS PART OF OUR PLAN TO ENCOURAGE IMPORT OF US GOODS, WE HELPED THE VENEZUELAN FOREIGN TRADE INSTITUTE ANALYZE THE COMPOSITION OF VENEZUELAN IMPORTS. WE GAVE CONSIDERABLE ASSISTANCE TO US COMPANIES TRYING TO SETTLE BUSINESS DISPUTES AND APPEARL PLANT CLOSINGS. -- SPECIFICALLY REGARDING OBJECTIVE IV.2.: OUR MAJOR PROJECT OFFICERS WERE IN FREQUENT CONTACT WITH THE KEY OFFICIALS IN GOV AGENCIES PREPARING FOR AND MANAGING VENEZUELAN DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS. OUR MAJOR PROJECT OFFICERS IDENTIFIED PROJECT OPPORTUNITIES AND ASSISTED AMERICAN BUSINESSMEN IN PURSUING THEM WITH APPROPRIATE GOV OFFICIALS. IN THIS CONNECTION, WE HAVE PREPARED AN INVESTMENT CLIMATE REPORT TO HELP BUSINESSMEN AVOID SOME OF THE PROBLEMS OF DOING BUSINESS WITH THE GOV AND THE PRIVATE SECTOR. NOTE: THE LACK OF THE COMMERCIAL ATTACHE SINCE JULY 15, 1978, AND THE DEPT'S DECISION IN AUGUST 1978 TO TERMINATE THE COMMERCIAL TAKS FORCE HANDICAPPED THE MISSION'S EFFORTS TO IMPLEMENT THE OBJECTIVES OF IV, NOS. 1 AND 2. SECRET NNN SECRET PAGE 01 CARACA 11634 03 OF 06 131306Z POSS DUPE ACTION ARA-15 INFO OCT-01 ISO-00 MMO-01 SIG-03 CIAE-00 DODE-00 PM-05 H-01 INR-10 L-03 NSAE-00 NSC-05 PA-01 SP-02 SS-15 ICA-11 HA-05 EB-08 OMB-01 TRSE-00 COME-00 DOE-15 SOE-02 IO-14 AID-05 LAB-04 SIL-01 ACDA-12 OES-09 DLOS-09 STR-07 MCT-02 SNM-05 /172 W ------------------120543 132017Z /64 P R 121900Z DEC 78 FM AMEMBASSY CARACAS TO SECSTATE WASHDC PRIORITY 4986 INFO USCINCSOUTH QUARRY HEIGHTS CZ Sheryl P. Walter Declassified/Released US Department of State EO Systematic Review 20 Mar 2014 Sheryl P. Walter Declassified/Released US Department of State EO Systematic Review 20 Mar 2014 S E C R E T SECTION 3 OF 6 CARACAS 11634 CINCSOUTH FOR POLAD V.4. KEEP PRESIDENT PEREZ INFORMED OF DEVELOPMENTS IN SOUTHERN AFRICA AND ENLIST HIS SUPPORT FOR US-BACKED POLICY INITIATIVES IN THE AREA. --THE EMBASSY HAS PROVIDED PRESIDENT PEREZ WITH SUBSTANTIAL BACKGROUND INFORMATION ON SPECIFIC AFRICAN INITIATIVES. V.5. CONSULT FREQUENTLY AND FRANKLY WITH VENEZUELA ON LOS ISSUES SINCE VENEZUELAN IS AN IMPORTANT AND INFLUENTIAL PARTICIPANT IN THOSE NEGOTIATIONS. -- THE VISIT OF AMBASSADOR RICHARDSON IN JULY 1978 AND HIS CONVERSATIONS IN CARACAS MOVED US FURTHER TOWARD ACCOMPLISHING THIS GOAL. WHILE THE GOV WILL REMAIN COMMITTED TO THE BROAD OBJECTIVES OF THE G-77 IN THE LOS, IT HAS INDICATED SOME FLEXIBILITY ON SEVERAL ASPECTS OF THE DRAFT TREATY. V.6. ENCOURAGE VENEZUELAN COOPERATION IN PROMPTLY SECRET SECRET PAGE 02 CARACA 11634 03 OF 06 131306Z POSS DUPE NEGOTIATING AN ILLICIT PAYMENTS TREATY. -- WE HAVE MADE PERIODIC APPROACHES TO THE FOREIGN TRADE INSTITUTE TO OBTAIN VENEZUELAN COOPERATIONS ON AN ILLICIT PAYMENTS AGREEMENT, WITHOUT SUCCESS. THE GOV PREFERS TO DEAL WITH THIS IN THE CONTEXT OF A CODE OF CONDUCT FOR TNCS. V.7. COOPERATE AND ENCOURAGE VENEZUELA TO SUPPORT CONSTRUCTIVE ANTI-TERRORIST MEASURES IN UN; BILATERALLY, EXCHANGE INFORMATION ON TERRORISM AS APPROPRIATE. -- OUR TWO GOVERNMENTS HAVE CONSULTED CLOSELY ON ANTITERRORISM MEASURES AT THE UN. THE EMBASSY HAS ALSO PROVIDED INFORMATION TO THE HIGHEST LEVELS OF THE GOV CONCERNING ANTI-CASTRO TERRORISM. THE EMBASSY HAS URGED THE GOV TO GIVE PUBLIC SUPPORT TO THE BONN SUMMIT ANTI-HIJACKING DECLARATION. (THE GOV HAS SUPPORTED THE DECLARATION PRIVATELY BY DIPLOMATIC NOTE, BUT HAS NOT GIVEN IT PUBLIC SUPPORT.) V.8. ENCOURAGE VENEZUELA TO COOPERATE WITH US IN EFFORTS TO REVITALIZE THE OAS AND ITS VARIOUS MECHANISMS AND RELATED ORGANS. Sheryl P. Walter Declassified/Released US Department of State EO Systematic Review 20 Mar 2014 Sheryl P. Walter Declassified/Released US Department of State EO Systematic Review 20 Mar 2014 -- AS NOTED IN CARACAS A-28, THE FOCUS FOR THIS OBJECTIVE SHOULD BE USOAS. FURTHER, THE EMBASSY HAS NOT RECEIVED SPECIFIC INSTRUCTIONS ON THIS POINT. THE GOV HAS SOME MISGIVINGS ABOUT THE EFFICACY OF THE OAS. NONETHELESS, THE GOV DOES RECOGNIZE, FOR EXMPLE, THE IMPORTANCE OF THE OAS WITH RESPECT TO NICARAGUA, E.G., MEDIATION EFFORT, BORDER SUPERVISION, IAHRC. V.9. ENCOURAGE VENEZUELAN BILATERAL AND MULTILATERAL SECRET SECRET PAGE 03 CARACA 11634 03 OF 06 131306Z POSS DUPE EFFORTS TO SUPPRESS NARCOTICS TRANFFICKING. -- THE SIGNING OF THE MEORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING (MARCH 1978) PARTIALLY MET THIS GOAL. THE MIXED COMMISSION HAD MADE PROGRESS ON INFORMATION EXCHANGE. FURTHER, VENEZUELA HAS READILY COOPERATED IN PERMITTING THE US COAST GUARD TO BOARD AND SEARCH VENEZUELAN SHIPS ON THE HIGH SEAS. THE RECENT VISIT OF THE USCG COMMANDANT FURTHER REINFORCED GOV INTEREST IN INTERDICTION EFFORTS AND INTELLIGENCE INTERCHANGE. V.10. PROMOTE VENEZUELAN DEVELOPMENT OBJECTIVES BY SUPPORTING IFI LOANS AND PROVIDING OTHER BILATERAL SUPPORT, SUCH AS REIMBURSABLE TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE, WHERE APPROPRIATE. -- WITH LARGE REVENUES AT ITS DISPOSAL, VENEZUELA IS NOW A NET CONTRIBUTOR TO IFIS AND DOES NOT RECEIVE ANY BILATERAL US AID. A SENIOR DEVELOPMENT ATTACHE HAS BEEN ADDED TO THE STAFF TO RESPOND TO VENEZUELAN REQUESTS FOR DEVELOPMENT ADVICE AND TECHNICAL SERVICES. (THE REIMBURSABLE DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM). V.11. PROMOTE US SECURITY INTERESTS AND MAINTAIN MILITARY RELATIONSHIPS SUPPORTIVE OF THE BROAD RANGE OF US GOALS AND OBJECTIVES, INCLUDING HUMAN RIGHTS AND CONVENTIONAL ARMS RESTRAINT POLICIES. -- WITH NO FMS CREDIT SALES SINCE 1976 AND WITH THE CESSATION OF IMET FUNDS IN SEPTEMBER 1978, OUR MILITARY ASSITANCE PROGRAM CONSISTS PRINCIPALLY OF FMS CASH PURCHASES, INCLUDING TRAINING. THE PROGRAM MAINTAINS USEFUL LREATIONSHIPS WITH THE VENEZEULA SHARES RESPONSIBILITY FOR AND HAS A ROLE TO PLAY IN HEMISPHERIC DEFENSE. IN THIS REGARD THE VENEZUELAN NAVY PARTICIPATED IN UNITAS, AND ALL SERVICES PARTICIPATED IN HALCON-VISTA. IT SHOULD BE NOTED, HOWEVER, THAT THE RELATIVE LOW LEVEL OF ASSISTANCE THE USG NOW SECRET SECRET Sheryl P. Walter Declassified/Released US Department of State EO Systematic Review 20 Mar 2014 Sheryl P. Walter Declassified/Released US Department of State EO Systematic Review 20 Mar 2014 PAGE 04 CARACA 11634 03 OF 06 131306Z POSS DUPE PROVIDES TO THE VENEZUELAN MILITARY HAS REDUCED THE EFFECTIVENESS OF THE PROGRAM AND RAISED SOME QUESTIONS WITHIN THE VENEZUELAN MILITARY ABOUT ITS DIRECTION AND FOCUS. V.12. ENCOURAGE VNEZUELAN SUPPORT FOR THE RIO TREATY, INCLUDING PROTECTION OF LINES OF COMMUNICATIONS, ACCESS TO LOGISTICAL FACILITIES AND DENIAL OF SAME TO POTENTIAL ADVERSARIES, AND OTHER REGIONAL PEACEKEEPING AND PROTECTIVE SECURITY OBJECTIVES. -- ALTHOUGH VENEZUELA HAS NEVER PLAYED A REGIONAL MILITARY PEACEKEEPING ROLE, TENSIONS OVER NICARAGUA, THE BEAGLE CHANNEL, CHILE-PERU, ETC. HAVE, DURING THE REPORTING PERIOD, TENDED TO FOCUS GOV ATTENTION ON THE RIO TREATY AS A POSSIBLE OPTION. V.13. ENCOURAGE ACTIVE PARTICIPATION IN PREPARING FOR THE 1979 UN CONFERENCE ON SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY FOR DEVELOPMENT AND DEVELOPING REALISTIC PROPOSALS FOR USING SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY IN MEETING DEVELOPMENT OBJECTIVES. -- WE HAVE BEEN UNABLE TO MEET THE OBJECTIVE OF ENCOURAGING CONSTRUCTIVE GOV PARTICIPATION IN PREPARATIONS FOR THE 1979 UN CONFERENCE ON SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENT PRIMARILY BECAUSE OF THE ABSENCE OF SPECIFIC GUIDANCE ON THIS ISSUE FROM THE DEPARTMENT. VI. ENCOURAGEMENT OF VENEZUELA'S INTEREST IN PLAYING AN ACTIVE REGIONAL ROLE. SECRET NNN SECRET PAGE 01 CARACA 11634 04 OF 06 131317Z POSS DUPE ACTION ARA-15 INFO OCT-01 ISO-00 MMO-01 SIG-03 CIAE-00 DODE-00 PM-05 H-01 INR-10 L-03 NSAE-00 NSC-05 PA-01 SP-02 SS-15 ICA-11 HA-05 EB-08 OMB-01 TRSE-00 COME-00 DOE-15 SOE-02 IO-14 AID-05 LAB-04 SIL-01 ACDA-12 OES-09 DLOS-09 STR-07 MCT-02 SNM-05 /172 W ------------------120589 132018Z /64 P R 121900Z DEC 78 Sheryl P. Walter Declassified/Released US Department of State EO Systematic Review 20 Mar 2014 Sheryl P. Walter Declassified/Released US Department of State EO Systematic Review 20 Mar 2014 FM AMEMBASSY CARACAS TO SECSTATE WASHDC PRIORITY 4987 INFO USCINCSOUTH QUARRY HEIGHTS CZ S E C R E T SECTION 4 OF 6 CARACAS 11634 CINCSOUTH FOR POLAD 1. INDICATE US SUPPORT FOR ANDEAN INTEGRATION. -- DURING HIS VISIT TO CARACAS IN MARCH OF 1978, PRESIDENT CARTER INDICATED SUPPORT FOR THE LATIN AMERICAN INTEGRATION MOVEMENT GENERALLY AND THE ANDEAN PACT, LAFTA AND SELA SPECIFICALLY. THIS SUPPORT WAS EXPRESSED IN THE FINAL PRESS COMMUNIQUE ISSUED AT THE END OF THE VISIT. EXIM BANK HAS MADE FUNDS AVAILABLE TO CORPORACION ANDINA DE FOMENTO (CAF) FOR PROJECTS IN THE ANDEAN AREA. AID HAS HELPED FINANCE TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS WITHIN THE ANDEAN AREA THROUGH CAF. THE AMBASSADOR AND OTHER EMBASSY OFFICIALS HAVE REITERATED US SUPPORT FOR THE LATIN AMERICAN INTEGRATION MOVEMENT, INCLUDING THE ANDEAN PACT. 2. ENCOURAGE VENEZUELAN COOPERATION IN REGIONAL CARIBBEAN DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMS AND STRESS INCREASED CONTACT BETWEEN VENEZUELA AND THE ENGLISH-SPEAKING CARIBBEAN. --DURING PRESIDENT CARTER'S MARCH 1978 VISIT TO VENEZUELA, HE AND PRESIDENT PEREZ AGREED TO PROMOTE A SECRET SECRET PAGE 02 CARACA 11634 04 OF 06 131317Z POSS DUPE COOPERATIVE CARIBBEAN DEVELOPMENT EFFORT. THEY EXCHANGED LETTERS DURING 1978 ON APPROACHES TO CARIBBEAN DEVELOPMENT WHICH STRESSED A COOPERATIVE APPROACH AND, IN EFFECT, BROUGHT THE GOV INTO THE POLICYMAKING EFFORT. REPRESENTATIONS BY THIS EMBASSY WERE INSTRUMENTAL IN OBTAINING VENEZUELAN COMMITMENT TO THE CARIBBEAN DEVELOPMENT FUND. 3. CONSULT WITH PRESIDENT PEREZ ON THE BELIZE INDPENDENCE PROBLEM. -- BELIZE HAS BEEN DISCUSSED SEVERAL TIMES WITH PRESIDENT PEREZ AT THE AMBASSADORIAL LEVEL. IN RECENT MONTHS, THE ISSUE HAS BECOME CLOUDED AND PROPSPECTS FOR MOVEMENT SEEM TO HAVE WANED. VII. MAINTENANCE OF GOOD, COOPERATIVE, BILATERAL WORKING RELATIONS. 1. CONSULT FREQUENTLY WITH PRESIDENT PEREZ AND THE GOV ON A WIDE VARIETY OF ISSUES TO STRESS INTERNATIONALLY Sheryl P. Walter Declassified/Released US Department of State EO Systematic Review 20 Mar 2014 Sheryl P. Walter Declassified/Released US Department of State EO Systematic Review 20 Mar 2014 THAT THIS IS A GOVERNMENT WHICH SHARES OUR COMMITMENT TO HUMAN/RIGHTS AND DEMOCRACY. -- PRESIDENT CARTER'S VISIT TO CARACAS SERVED THE PURPOSE OF THIS OBJECTIVE ADMIRABLY BY UNDERSCORING THE FACT THAT WE CONSULT CLOSELY AND AT THE HIGHEST LEVEL. IN THIS REGARD, THE GOV HAS EMPHASIZED THAT IT IDENTIFIES FOUR-SQUARE WITH THE US HUMAN RIGHTS POLICY. ONCE THE US ENGATED IN THE MEDIATION EFFORT IN NICARAGUA, THE GOV HAS BEEN VER COOPERATIVE AND SUPPORTIVE OF THAT EFFORT. 2. MAINTAIN A COOPERATIVE, FRIENDLY RELATIONSHIP WITH THE VENEZUELAN ARMED FORCES AS A MEANS OF INFLUENCING AN SECRET SECRET PAGE 03 CARACA 11634 04 OF 06 131317Z POSS DUPE IMPORTANT INSTITUTUIONAL ACTOR IN VENEZUELAN SOCIETY. -- FOLLOWING THE END OF IMET FUNDING IN SEPTEMBER 1978, THE VENEZUELAN MILITARY HAVE BEGUN TO REVIEW THE COSTS AND BENIFITS OF OUR MILITARY ASSISTANCE PROGRAM. IT IS PREMATURE TO SPECULATE ABOUT THE RESULTS OF THIS REVIEW. WHAT IS CLEAR IS THAT THE REDUCTIONS IN PROGRAM ASSISTANCE OVER THE YEARS HAVE REACHED THE POINT WHERE THE VENEZUELAN MILITARY WISHES TO EXAIMINE CLOSELY THE RATIONALE FOR THE PROGRAM. THE FMS CASH PURCHASE PROGRAM, INCLUDING TRAINING, VISITS OF MOBILE TRAINING TEAMS, UNITAS, PERSONNEL EXCHANGE PROGRAM, AND OTHER RELATED BILATERAL MILITARY CONTACTS DO PROVIDE EXAMPLES OF US INTEREST IN THE VENEZUELAN MILITARY. WHETHER, HOWEVER, THESE, IN THEMSELVES, ARE SUFFICIENT FOR THE MAINTENANCE OF A FORMAL PROGRAM OVER THE NEXT TWO YEARS WILL DEPEND ON THE REVIEW BY THE VENEZUELAN MILITARY AND THE ATTITUDES OF THE NEW HERRERA ADMINISTRATION. 3. STRENGTHEN TWO-WAY COMMUNICATION AND INSTITUTIONAL TIES THROUGH INFORMATION, EDUCATIONAL AND CULTURAL EXCHANGE PROGRAMS IN SUPPORT OF US BILATERAL AND GLOBAL OBJECTIVES AND BROADER MUTUAL UNDERSTANDING. -- ICA HAS CONTINUED TO MAINTAIN GOOD, COOPERATIVE, BILATERAL RELATIONSHIPS WITH KEY INDIVIDUALS AND INSTITUTIONS THROUGH THE FULBRIGHT PROGRAM, IV GRANTS, FACILITATIVE ASSISTANCE TO PRIVATE EXCHANGE PROGRAMS, TECHNOLOGY SEMINARS, AND BROAD PLACEMENT IN ALL MEDIA. 4. NOEGOTIATE A SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY AGREEMENT AND FOSTER GREATER INTERCHANGE BETWEEN US SUPPLIERS OF ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY AND VENZUELAN END-USERS. -- SIGNATURE OF THE PROPOSED SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY AGREEMENT WAS PLANNED FOR THE VISIT OF PRESIDENT CARTER Sheryl P. Walter Declassified/Released US Department of State EO Systematic Review 20 Mar 2014 Sheryl P. Walter Declassified/Released US Department of State EO Systematic Review 20 Mar 2014 BUT DID NOT OCCUR. THERE HAS BEEN NO FURTHER PROGRESS. SECRET SECRET PAGE 04 CARACA 11634 04 OF 06 131317Z POSS DUPE SOME PROGRESS HAS BEEN MADE, HOWEVER, IN AREAS INVOLVING GOVERNMENT TO GOVERNMENT TECHNOLOGY EXCHANGES. TECHNOLOGY TRANSFERS IN THE PRIVATE SECTOR HAVE CONTINUED AT A GOOD PACE. PART III. KEY POLICY ISSUES A CENTRAL ISSUE FOR US CONTINUES TO BE OIL PRICES AND A STABLE SUPPLY OF OIL. VENEZUELA IS FIRMLY AND OPENLY COMMITTED TO OPEC SOLIDARITY AND TO HIGHER OIL PRICES. THE GOV HAS SHOWN SOME MODERATION IN ITS POSITION. AS WELL AS A WILLINGNESS TO LISTEN TO US ARGUMENTS AND HAS SOUGHT TO COOPERATE WITH THE USG IN OTHER OIL AND ENERGY ISSUES. WITH PRODUCTIVE CAPACITY GRADUALLY DECLINING AND DOMESTIC CONSUMPTION INCREASING, VENEZUELA WILL HAVE LESS OIL AVAILBLE FOR EXPORT, AT LEAST FOR THE NEXT TWO YEARS. THE GOV CONTINUES TO SEE THE US AS A NATURAL MARKET FOR ITS OIL AND HAS SOUGHT TO COORDINATE ITS SUPPLIES WITH US DEMAND, BUT AT THE SAME TIME THERE ARE PRESSURES TO REDUCE DEPENDENCE ON THIS SINGLE MARKET. VENEZUELAN INVESTMENT POLICY IS ANOTHER ISSUE. WE WILL CONTINUE TO HAVE INVESTMENT DISPUTES WITH THE GOV UNLESS AND UNTIL IT MODIFIES ITS FOREIGN INVESTMENT LAWS AND REGULATIONS. THE GOV HAS TENDED TO FAVOR OTHER COUNTIRES IN AWARDING CONTRACTS FOR MAJOR PROJECTS. US FIRMS WILL CONTINUE TO FACE DIFFICULTIES IN SECURING CONTRACTS UNLESS THERE ARE FUNDAMENTAL CHANGES IN USG AND US PRIVATE SECRET NNN SECRET PAGE 01 CARACA 11634 05 OF 06 131452Z POSS DUPE ACTION ARA-15 INFO OCT-01 ISO-00 MMO-01 SIG-03 CIAE-00 DODE-00 PM-05 H-01 INR-10 L-03 NSAE-00 NSC-05 PA-01 SP-02 SS-15 ICA-11 HA-05 EB-08 OMB-01 TRSE-00 COME-00 DOE-15 SOE-02 IO-14 AID-05 LAB-04 SIL-01 ACDA-12 OES-09 DLOS-09 STR-07 MCT-02 SNM-05 /172 W Sheryl P. Walter Declassified/Released US Department of State EO Systematic Review 20 Mar 2014 Sheryl P. Walter Declassified/Released US Department of State EO Systematic Review 20 Mar 2014 ------------------121654 132021Z /64 P R 121900Z DEC 78 FM AMEMBASSY CARACAS TO SECSTATE WASHDC PRIORITY 4988 INFO USCINCSOUTH QUARRY HEIGHTS CZ S E C R E T SECTION 5 OF 6 CARACAS 11634 CINCSOUTH FOR POLAD BUSINESS POLICIES AND PRACTICES. IN THE CASE OF TRADE, IF, AS WE EXPECT, THE NEW GOV CONTRACTS THE ECONOMY AND BRINGS IMPORTS UNDER CONTROL, THE MEASURES TAKEN WOULD REDUCE OUR EXPORTS AND WE COULD BE ASKED TO CURTAIL OUR TRADE PROMOTION ACTIVITIES. ON THIRD WORLD ISSUES WE WILL BE SEEKING VENEZUELAN SUPPORT. IN SOME CASES, ESPECIALLY ON HEMISPHERIC ISSUES, VENEZUELAN SUPPORT FOR A USG INITIATIVE (OR EVEN LACK OF OPPOSITION) MAKES IT EASIER FOR US TO ACHIEVE OUR GOAL. WE WILL CONTINUE TO HAVE POLICY DIFFERENCE ON NORTHSOUTH ISSUES, ESPECIALLY THE COMMON FUND. POLITICALLY, THE KEY ISSUES THE UNITED STATES WILL FACE WITH VENEZUELA OVER THE NEXT TWO YEARS WILL BE MULTILATERAL IN NATURE. OUR ROLE IN THE EVOLVING NICARAGUAN SITUATION WILL BE PERCEIVED BY THE NEW HERRERA ADMINISTRATION AS THE LITMUS TEST OF OUR HUMAN RIGHTS POLICY IN THE HEMISPHERE. OTHER MULTILATERAL ISSUES WHICH WILL AFFECT OUR BILATERAL RELATIONS WILL PROBABLY BE: SECRET SECRET PAGE 02 CARACA 11634 05 OF 06 131452Z POSS DUPE LOS NEGOTIATIONS, CARIBBEAN COOPERATION, AND ARMS RESTRAINT INITIATIVES. PART IV. ASSESSMENT OF THE CONTINUED VALIDITY OF CURRENT GOALS AND OBJECTIVES THE EMBASSY BELIEVES THAT WE CAN CONSOLIDATE SEVERAL OF OUR OBJECTIVES UNDER THE SEVEN APPROVED GOAL RUBRICS TO REFLECT CHANGES SINCE EARLY 1978. IN PARTICULAR, WE RECOMMEND DELETION OF A NUMBER OF GENERAL OBJECTIVES WHICH, WHILE VALID, DO NOT REPRESENT MAJOR CONCERNS. ACCORDINGLY, WE SUBMIT THE FOLLOWING REVISED LIST OF GOALS: I. BASIC HUMAN RIGHTS AND ECMOCRACY 1. SEEK WAYS TO COOPERATE WITH VENEZUELA TO FURTHER HUMAN RIGHTS AND DEMOCRACY IN THE HEMISPHERE, E.G., NICAAGUA, Sheryl P. Walter Declassified/Released US Department of State EO Systematic Review 20 Mar 2014 Sheryl P. Walter Declassified/Released US Department of State EO Systematic Review 20 Mar 2014 2. CONTINUE BILATERAL DISCUSSIONS OF WAYS AND MEANS TO SUPPORT THE IAHRC, PRINCIPALLY THROUGH USOAS. 3. MAINTAIN A POLICY OF STRICT NON-INVOLVEMENT IN VENEZUELAN INTERNAL POLTICS. 1. INCREASED COOPERATION IN ENERGY RELATED MATTERS. 1. CONTINUE GOVERNMENT TO GOVERNMENT DIALOGUE ON ENERGY MATTERS, INCLUDING BOTH PERIODIC HIGH LEVEL POLICY CONSULTATIONS AND THE DEFINITION AND IMPLEMENTATION OF TECHNICAL COOPERATION IN SELECTED AREAS. 2. CONVEY, AT THE HIGHEST LEVEL, OUR CONTINUED CONCERN THAT OIL PRICES BE MAINTAINED AT A REASONABLE LEVEL AND SECRET SECRET PAGE 03 CARACA 11634 05 OF 06 131452Z POSS DUPE THAT ADEQUATE SUPPLIES CONTINUE TO BE MADE AVAILABLE, NOTING IN PARTICULAR THE ADVERSE EFFECT OF HIGH OIL PRICES ON ECONOMIC CONDITIONS AND DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMS OF NON-OIL LDC'S. 3. ENCOURAGE PROMPT AND EQUITABLE SETTLEMENT OF THE CLAIMS STILL PENDING AGAINST US FIRMS AFFECTED BY THE NATIONALIZATION OF THE OIL INDUSTRY. 4. NEGOTIATE A NEW BILATERAL AGREEMENT FOR PEACEFUL NUCLEAR COOPERATION. NOTE: THE PEREZ LDC MONEY-SHARING PROPOSAL SHOULD BE DELETED. III. NON-PROLIFERATION AND ARMS CONTROL 1. ENCOURAGE VENEZUELAN RATIFICATION OF THE NPT SAFEGUARDS AGREEMENT WITH THE IAEA. 2. COOPERATE WITH AND ENCOURAGE VENEZUELA IN ITS EFFORTS TO CURB CONVENTIONAL ARMS TRANSFERS WITHIN THE CONTEXT OF THE MEXICAN AND/OR AYACUCHO INITIATIVES. IV. IMPROVEMENT OF BILATERAL ECNOMIC RELATIONS. 1. ENCOURAGE VENEZUELA TO IMPORT A WIDER RANGE OF PRODUCTS FROM THE US AND DISCOURAGE TRADE BARRIERS, PARTICULARLY NON-TARIFF BARRIERS. 2. PROMOTE VENEZUELAN DEVELOPMENT OBJECTIVES THROUGH PARTICIPATON BY US FIRMS IN MAJOR PROJECTS. REIMBURSABLE TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE SHOULD BE ENCOURAGED, WHERE APPROPRIATE. Sheryl P. Walter Declassified/Released US Department of State EO Systematic Review 20 Mar 2014 Sheryl P. Walter Declassified/Released US Department of State EO Systematic Review 20 Mar 2014 INDICATE US SUPPORT FOR ANDEAN INTEGRATION. 3. PURSUE THE NEGOTIATIONS OF A BILATERAL TAX TREATY. SECRET SECRET PAGE 04 CARACA 11634 05 OF 06 131452Z POSS DUPE 4. WORK WITHIN THE USG TO MAKE VENEZUELA ELIGIBLE FOR GSP. V. STIMULATION OF INCREASED VENEZUELAN COOPERATION ON INTERNATIONAL ISSUES 1. CONTINUE CONSULTATIONS WITH VENEZUELA THAT FACILITATE A MORE COOPERATIVE RELATIONSHIP ON MULTILATERAL AND INTERNTIONAL ISSUES AND ENCOURAGE VENEZUELAN LEADERSHIP WHERE APPROPRIATE. DEVELOP A CONTINUING DIALOGUE WITH THE PRESIDENT OF VENEZUELA AND OTHER KEY VENEZUELANOFFICIALS. 2. ENCOURAGE VENEZUELA TO TAKE A MORE PRAGMATIC ATTITUDE IN THE NORTH-SOUTH DIALOGUE. 3. ENCOURAGE VENEZUELA TO COOPERATI IN NEGOTIATION OF AN ILLICIT PAYMENTS TREATY. 4. CONTINUE TO WORK CLOSELY WITH THE GOV ON LOS ISSUES, PARTICULARLY THOSE OVER WHICH WE DISAGREE. IN PARTICULAR, THE DEPARTMENT SHOULD CONTINUE TO KEEP THE EMBASSY INFORMED ON LOS DEVELOPMENTS WITH SPECIAL EMPHASIS ON THE DEEP SEABEDS ISSUE SO THAT THE EMBASSY CAN MAKE MORE EFFECTIVE REPRESENTATIONS. 5. COOPERATE AND ENCOURAGE VENEZUELA TO SUPPORT CONSTRUCTIVE ANTI-TERRORIST MEASURES IN THE UN; BILATERALLY, CONTINUE TO EXCHANGE INFORMATION ON TERRORISM WITH THE NEW ADMINISTRATION AS APPROPRIATE. 6. ENCOURAGE ACTIVE AND CONSTRUCTIVE GOV PARTICIPATION IN THE 1979 UN CONFERENCE ON SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY FOR SECRET SECRET PAGE 05 CARACA 11634 05 OF 06 131452Z POSS DUPE DEVELOPMENT AND THE DEVELOPMENT OF REALISTIC PROPOSALS FOR USING SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY IN MEETING DEVELOPMENT OBJECTIVES. 7. ENCOURAGE VENEZUELAN BILATERAL AND MULTILATERAL EFFORTS TO SUPPRESS NARCOTICS TRAFFICKING. Sheryl P. Walter Declassified/Released US Department of State EO Systematic Review 20 Mar 2014 Sheryl P. Walter Declassified/Released US Department of State EO Systematic Review 20 Mar 2014 8. WE ARE NOT SURE THAT THE NEW HERRERA ADMINSTRATION WILL WISH TO TAKE ANY STEPS BEYOND THOSE TAKEN BY THE PEREZ ADMINISTRATION TO ASSIST IN OBTAINING GUYANA'S ADHERENCE SECRET NNN SECRET PAGE 01 CARACA 11634 06 OF 06 132105Z ACTION ARA-15 INFO OCT-01 ISO-00 MMO-01 SIG-03 CIAE-00 DODE-00 PM-05 H-01 INR-10 L-03 NSAE-00 NSC-05 PA-01 SP-02 SS-15 ICA-11 HA-05 EB-08 OMB-01 TRSE-00 COME-00 DOE-15 SOE-02 IO-14 AID-05 LAB-04 SIL-01 ACDA-12 OES-09 DLOS-09 STR-07 MCT-02 SNM-05 /172 W ------------------125580 132123Z /73 P R 121900Z DEC 78 FM AMEMBASSY CARACAS TO SECSTATE WASHDC PRIORITY 0000 INFO USCINCSOUTH QUARRY HEIGHTS CZ S E C R E T SECTION 6 OF 6 CARACAS 11634 CINCSOUTH FOR POLAD TO THE TREATY OF TLATELOLCO, BUT THE EMBASSY SHOULD AS APPROPRIATE, REVIEW STATUS OF THIS ISSUE WITH GOV. NOTE: WE SUGGEST THAT THE SOUTH AFRICAN, OAS, US SECURITY INTERESTS AND RIO TREATY ITEMS BE DROPPED BECAUSE THEY ARE TOO VAGUE AND GENERAL. VI. ENCOURAGEMENT OF VENEZUELA'S INTEREST IN PLAYING AN ACTIVIE REGIONAL ROLE 1. CONTINUE TO INDICATE, AS APPROPRIATE, US SUPPORT FOR ANDEAN INTEGRATION. 2. ENCOURAGE VENEZUELAN COOPERATION IN REGIONAL CARIBBEAN DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMS AND STRESS INCREASED CONTACT BETWEEN VENEZUELAN AND THOSE COUNTRIES WITH WHICH IT HAS INFLUENCE (I.E., DR. JAMICA). NOTE: WE BELIEVE THAT THE US SHOULD ENCOURGE INCREASED CONTACT BETWEEN VENEZUELA AND SELECTED COUNTRIES WITH WHICH IT HAS INFLUENCE, RATHER THAN ONLY ENGLISH-SPEAKING SECRET Sheryl P. Walter Declassified/Released US Department of State EO Systematic Review 20 Mar 2014 Sheryl P. Walter Declassified/Released US Department of State EO Systematic Review 20 Mar 2014 SECRET PAGE 02 CARACA 11634 06 OF 06 132105Z COUNTRIES PER SE. VII. MAINTENANCE OF GOOD, COOPERATIVE, BILATERAL WORKING RELATIONS. 1. CONSULT FREQUENTLY WITH PRESIDENT HERRERA AND THE GOV ON A WIDE VARIETY OF ISSUES TO STRESS WITH THE NEW ADMINISTRATION OUR SHARED COMMITMENT TO HUMAN RIGHTS AND DEMOCRACY. 2. STRENGTHEN FURTHER TWO-WAY INSTITUTIONAL TIES THROUGH THE ICA PROGRAM, WITH PARTICULAR EMPHASIS ON EXHCNAGES AND CULTURAL PRESENTATIONS. 3. COMPLETE NEGOTIATION OF A SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY AGREEMENT AND FOSTER GREATER INTERCHANGE BETWEEN US SUPPLIERS OF ADVANCE TECHNOLOGY AND VENEZUELAN END-USERS. 4. DEVELOP A CLOSE WORKING RELATIONSHIP WITH KEY OFFICIALS OF THE NEW ADMINISTRATION. NOTE: VENEZUELAN ARMED FORCES ITEM SHOULD BE DROPPED. LUERS SECRET NNN Sheryl P. Walter Declassified/Released US Department of State EO Systematic Review 20 Mar 2014 Sheryl P. Walter Declassified/Released US Department of State EO Systematic Review 20 Mar 2014