Roger Noriega, the Bush administration's assistant secretary of state for inter-American affairs, argues that nothing could be further from the truth.

In 1912, her employment schedule began to involve her more in inter-American affairs.

The O.A.S., with headquarters in Washington, is the principal diplomatic forum for inter-American affairs.

In May, Michael G. Kozak, the deputy assistant secretary of state for inter-American affairs, had been sent to Panama to meet with Noriega.

Mr. Abrams's job as Assistant Secretary of State for inter-American affairs from 1985 to 1989 made him responsible for Central America.

Mr. Oliver was ambassador to Colombia from 1964 to 1966 and assistant secretary of state for inter-American affairs from 1967 to 1969.

He later became United States ambassador to Venezuela and now serves as assistant secretary of state for inter-American affairs by presidential appointment.

Mr. Rockefeller, as founding chairman, presided over the society's rise to prominence in inter-American affairs.

Dr. Fishlow has served as deputy assistant secretary of state for inter-American affairs from 1970 to 1976.

One official, Frank McNeil, then deputy assistant secretary of state for inter-American affairs, urged the department to err on the side of greater disclosure.