November 18, 1976
Memorandum from Ambassador Figuerero to Castro Madero
This document was made possible with support from Carnegie Corporation of New York (CCNY)
MINISTRY OF EXTERNAL RELATIONS AND CULT
SECRET
MEMORANDUM 136
For information of Capt. Castro Madero – President
C.N Atomic Energy
Produced by Ambassador Figuerero
Buenos Aires, 18 November 1976
Subject: Information
The Embassy of the Republic of Brazil informs that there would be wide repercussion in the case of a confirmation that the President-elect of the United States would be willing to utilize all diplomatic means at his disposal to bring about the revocation of the nuclear contracts between Brazil and Federal Germany. The reaction of the Foreign Ministry is prudent but reflects serious concern. The Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany, on its part, insisted that the country would honor its commitments but information coming from German parliamentary specialists are much more dubious about its ability to counter the American pressure.
Brazil would strive through every means at is disposal to confirm its right to nuclear development, the doubts refer to the Brazilian attitude in the case of pressures to sign the NPT and to the ability of the Federal republic of Germany to negotiate with the United States.
The problems in the nuclear field also concern the participating German companies and the level of the technology involved.
It is important to stress the consequences that may ensue. If the impact of the forthcoming increase in the price of oil is added to the difficulties in the nuclear field, the hydroelectric programs, and in particular Itaipu, could bring about favorable arguments as an available alternative.
(Signed) Juan Manuel Figuerero
Ambassador President Coordinating Commission for Scientific and Technical Affairs
This memo, produced by the Argentine Ambassador in charge of the Scientific and Technical Affairs Division of the Argentine Foreign Ministry, alerts the Director of the Argentine Nuclear Commission Carlos Castro Madero that the new Carter administration will attempt to exert pressure on Brazil’s nuclear program and hinder its nuclear deal with West Germany. It notes that regardless of Carter’s nuclear policy, Brazil would “try by all means confirm its right to nuclear development.”
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