851G.01/7–2449: Telegram
The Ambassador in France (Bruce) to the Secretary of State 1
3037. I had Pignon to lunch yesterday and he discussed developments Indo-China most frankly. He remains optimistic and believes given necessary time Bao Dai “solution” has good chance of success. He was particularly pleased with Bao Dai’s reception at Hue and Hanoi which will strengthen latter’s personal prestige and authority.
He outlined 3 essentials for success, first being continuity in French Govt’s Indo-China policy and exercise of wisdom and liberality in its implementation. Second is Bao Dai’s ability to discipline members his govt and persuade them to subordinate their personal and regional interests to national welfare. He considers, as individuals, they are “on par with those in Viet-Minh” but lack discipline and will have to learn to work as a team. Third and unknown factor depends on developments China, particularly Mao Tse-tung’s actions once his army reaches Tonkin border.
In this latter respect he echoed Revers’ opinion French able cope with anything short of all-out invasion of Indo-China. Stated 41,500 Vietnamese troops actively participating in military operations with French army constitute satisfactory nucleus for formation Vietnam army which will be responsible for policing of Annam and Cochin China, freeing bulk of expeditionary force for operations in Tonkin.
Felt Viets capable filling this role, pointing out Viet-Minh forces not effective except in hit and run guerrilla attacks which well-trained and equipped Viet army could deal with more effectively than-French.
He does not believe Vietnam Govt interested in participating any Pacific Union that may result from Baguio conversations and has warned Bao Dai against association his govt with Nationalist China.2 [Page 70] Both he and Bao Dai, on other hand, acutely aware of importance attitude neighboring countries SEA and latter searching for top flight men for Bangkok and New Delhi diplomatic assignments. In meanwhile goodwill missions being formed and will be sent out in near future.
Stated Bao Dai had decided on Hanoi as provisional seat of govt which eventually certain to move to Hue.
Pignon returns Saigon July 26 and Coste-Floret leaving about August 4 for two-week visit Indo-China.
Repeated Saigon 102.