751.93/2–2446: Telegram

The Assistant Chief of the Division of Southeast Asian Affairs (Landon) to the Secretary of State

secret

9. Landon to Vincent,19 Moffat, Culbertson: Clarac returned from Chungking and stated that French relations with China being placed on completely new basis in series of agreements, some of which completed. He gave no effective dates, implying that everything hinged on effectiveness of Chinese aid in reestablishment of French control in Indochina. Following points covered:

(1)
Agreement relinquishing extra-territorial rights, similar in wording to Sino-British agreement;
(2)
Agreement on general situation Chinese in Indochina which improves Chinese situation slightly but changes it in no respect. French offered Chinese situation comparable to that of French but Chinese refused on grounds taxation. Present agreement states that although Chinese will be taxed by communities as usual and not as individuals, that their individual taxes will not be more severe than taxes on other aliens on basis most favored nation;
(3)
Agreement still incomplete on status of Chinese reconcile Chinese law jus sanguinis with French law jus soli. French reject dual citizenship as impossible in Malaya [sic] and propose that adult Chinese elect either Chinese or local citizenship;
(4)
Agreement ceding areas port of Haiphong for use Chinese customs and transit dues riot to be placed on goods exported from or destined to China via Haiphong;
(5)
Agreement ceding Chinese part of railroad line in China. Simultaneously letters were exchanged granting Chinese and French railroad companies privilege of ownership of ⅖ other’s stock making possible mutual aid in maintenance of railroad and share of other’s profits. Chinese not yet agreed to this but hold option;
(6)
Sino-French agreement on withdrawal of Chinese troops and extent of Chinese aid to French still confidential. In general, believe it is as stated in my message 2 of February 16. Clarac stated frankly French need Chinese aid in reestablishing themselves in Tonkin and implied that French prepared to act quickly and matter would be settled in 6 weeks. He stated that Chinese chief concern now with Manchuria situation20 where Russians seem to be [apparent garble] Chinese, also that Chinese anxious quickly to fulfill obligations on Indochina to avoid Russian criticism and to set example for Russians to follow in Manchuria. In this, connect ion 93 Army moving troops on schedule into China. However, 60 and 53 Armies making no move as ships will be required for part or all.
(7)
. . . .
(8)
Leaving’25 February for Saigon consultation Reed,20a then proceed Bangkok en route Washington as instructed. Inform family.

[
Landon
]
  1. John Carter Vincent, Director, Office of Far Eastern Affairs.
  2. For representations against Soviet removal of Japanese industrial equipment from Manchuria as war booty, see volume x.
  3. Charles S. Reed, 2d Consul assigned to Saigon.