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

751.92/5–2446

The Secretary of State to the Ambassador in France (Caffery)

secret
us urgent

Washington, May 27, 1946—5 p.m.

2542. 1. Bangkok reported May 24 [Here follows text of telegram 546, printed on page 1002.]

2. Bangkok reported further May 26 [Here follows text of telegram 552, printed on page 1003.]

3. Express immediately FonOff increasing concern this Govt on border incidents which can lead only to bloodshed, increased difficulty in peaceful retrocession of disputed territories, and alienation American public opinion. Urge that instructions again be sent to prevent such further incidents and any movement French troops to Siamese soil.

4. On May 22 Bangkok reported.⁶⁷ “Saint Mieux, French Liaison Officer in Siam, has urged Clarac to come to Bangkok for conversation with Pradit. We and Brit believe this would be excellent means of giving French true picture of local situation but Clarac is taking position that France has made enough conciliatory gestures and next move is up to Siamese. General Brunskill, Brit GOC Siam, who is proceeding to Saigon on visit today, will urge Clarac to come Bangkok.” Suggest to FonOff usefulness Clarac visit Bangkok and emphasize that great Power can afford proceed more than half-way in dealing with small nation in interest international cooperation.

5. Sent Paris. Repeated London.

Byrnes

67. Telegram 537, not printed.