851G.01/6–1449: Telegram
The Consul General at Saigon (Abbott) to the Secretary of State
193. Exchange letters marking entrance into effect March 8 agreements took place this morning City Hall after speeches by Pignon and Bao Dai. Then following hoisting Vietnam flag, 21-gun salute, formal address broadcast to nation by Bao Dai in Vietnamese, presentation colors to Vietnam regiment and review of troops. Guard of honor exclusively [Page 48] Vietnamese including elements Caodaists, Hoa Hao, Ben Nguyen and New Catholic local defense corps. Spectators limited, in rand [sic] enthusiasm but such as there was apparently spontaneous contrast certain ceremonies in past. Extraordinary security precautions have prevented populace getting close enough emperor even recognize him. Bao Dai’s speech, prior exchange letters, hailed new era France–Vietnam relations based on friendly understanding. France has recognized aspirations for independence and granted territorial unity. “We count on France to realize our sovereignty within country and to proclaim it throughout world. Our country, which hopes rapidly to achieve its international status, understands its mission is to cooperate with all countries who wish to defend conception of life based on peace, democratic principles and respect for individual liberties.”
Emperor then stated that adherence to French Union was recognition that present world situation prevents purely national policy. Vietnam can count on diplomatic support French Union and vice versa. Within Union, close and friendly relations desired with Cambodia and Laos and confident outstanding problems can be settled. Also spoke of mission in SEA as member “concert free nations anxious to preserve peace and guaranty [guarantee] happiness of people.”
Bao Dai closed with thanks to Auriol, Queuille, Coste Floret, [apparent omission] on French Parliament Bao Dai’s broadcast message to people opens with acknowledgment of heroic part played by Cochin China history Vietnam, then refers to destructive Nouryr war due to failure to satisfy national aspirations. In order to stop this sad conflict between two fundamentally peace loving peoples, he accepted mission “to find peaceful solution and to satisfy deep aspirations people.”
Provisionally keeping old title in order have legal international status but promises future constitution to be drafted by people. In meantime due grave international situation and impossibility hold elections “I accept from today to take over direction of state.”
Then takes up March 8 agreements “which will be eventually submitted for ratification to Vietnam Parliament”. Unity of country restored and colonial status definitely abolished. “The independence of the country is restored and from today Vietnam directs its own affairs both external and internal.” Internationally, country has all powers independent state; right foreign relations, right send Ambassadors, receive Diplomatic missions, appoint Consuls abroad, right to sign international treaties and join UNO.
First task new government implementation these rights by sending Consuls abroad and accrediting Ambassadors to countries named March 8 agreement. We also await “with fervor” representatives [Page 49] friendly governments and future membership UNO. Repeats statement previous speech reference individual liberties, etc.
Then discusses internal policy based on discipline and justice. Involves social program: elimination illiteracy, labor legislation, higher standard living, land for peasants assistance, foreign specialists.
Speech closed with appeal to entire population for peace and order so that all can unite efforts for rebuilding country of which all can be proud—to begin a new page in history of new Vietnam.
Believe important features speech are emphasis on foreign relations, no mention autonomy or special status Cochin China, absence reference French Union, no direct appeal resistance elements, no mention of armistice.
If Department plans issue statement, helpful if text transmitted Hanoi and Consulate General for advance issue certain French and Vietnamese officials.
Sent Department; repeated Paris, pouched Hanoi.