ABSTRACT
In the two decades after 1971, Bolivian foreign policy continued to expand in scope and purpose even though its policy options often were constrained. On more than one occasion, domestic turmoil undermined foreign policy initiatives, highlighting again the interrelationship of foreign and domestic policy. Similarly, regionalism continued to influence if not determine foreign policy, particularly in regards to Bolivia’s neighbors. Bolivia made some progress in the areas of subregional, regional, and international cooperation; unfortunately, the structure and state of the Bolivian economy limited success in this regard. In the early 1970s, Bolivia, Chile, and Peru engaged in negotiations, known as the Charaña Talks, aimed at granting Bolivia sovereign access to the Pacific. These talks were noteworthy because all three parties to the dispute recognized its tripartite nature, and Bolivia received formal recognition from both Chile and Peru of its right to coastal territory, including a sovereign port on the Pacific. Bilateral talks between Bolivia and Chile in 1986 were no more productive. Bolivia also joined landlocked, transit, and nontransit states in multiple international forums largely focused on improved transit rights. Throughout the period, the United States was increasingly involved in the domestic and foreign policies of Bolivia, highlighting Bolivian dependence on other governments and bodies.
