Foreign Relations of the United States, 1946, The Far East, Volume VIII

851G.00/4–3046: Circular telegram

The Acting Secretary of State to Certain Diplomatic and Consular Officers³⁶

confidential

Washington, April 30, 1946—11 a.m.

French in Hanoi fear Chinese attack on French civilians, soldiers, any incident likely become serious citywide fight. Some French believe Chinese planning overrun French, overthrow Vietnam Government, establish Chinese fostered Dong Minh Hoi Party in power then ask Chinese assistance thus allowing Chinese troops remain Indochina. Consul Saigon suggests³⁷ general order from Chiang Kai-shek might avert incident.

Acheson

36. At Bangkok, Batavia, London, Moscow, Paris, and Singapore.
37. Telegram 121, April 27, 1946, 10 a.m., not printed.