851G.01/6–1449: Circular telegram
The Acting Secretary of State to Certain Diplomatic and Consular Officers Abroad 1
Fol is tentative text press statement to be issued re developments Indochina:
“The formation of the new state of Vietnam and the recent announcement by ex-Emperor Bao Dai that the future constitution will [Page 54] be decided by the Vietnamese people are gratifying developments which should serve to hasten the reestablishment of peace in that country and the attainment of Vietnam’s rightful place in the family of nations.
“The US Govt hopes that the agreements of Mar 8 between Pres Auriol and former Emperor Bao Dai who is making sincere efforts to unite all truly-nationalist elements within Vietnam, will form the basis for the progressive realization of the legitimate aspirations of the Vietnamese people. Continuing statesmanship such as that already displayed by both parties to the present accord will accelerate this development.”
Wld appreciate ur comments soonest as we inclined believe statement shld be issued, perhaps June 17, before announcement formation of Bao Dai’s govt. We desire also avoid giving Bao Dai experiment “kiss of death” by too generous treatment of ex-Emperor.
Sent Paris, rptd Saigon, Hanoi, all for action; rptd New Delhi, London, Bangkok, Manila, Rangoon, for info.
- Originally dated June 14, 7 p. m., and sent to 8 posts (Bangkok, London, Manila, New Delhi, Paris, Rangoon, Saigon, and Hanoi). Comments suggesting changes were received from Saigon, Hanoi, Paris, and London; further telegrams were sent by the Department accepting some of the suggestions. For the text of the press release issued on June 21, see Department of State Bulletin, July 18, 1949, p. 75.↩