Foreign Relations of the United States, 1949, The Far East: China, Volume VIII

893.00/12–1249: Telegram

The Consul General at Saigon (Abbott) to the Secretary of State

Saigon, December 12, 1949—noon.
[Received December 12—7:08 a. m.]

437. Following signed statement issued [by] Pignon⁹ over weekend:

“Am authorized by French and Vietnam Governments announce following position:

French and Vietnam Governments feel need announce their position in case Chinese military formations should be tempted to try penetration Indochina, particularly Vietnam. Instructions given troops French Union are to oppose entry Indochina any foreign troops which appear at frontier under arms. If such case occurs elements which cross frontier will be ejected or disarmed and interned. In no case will French and Vietnam Governments permit Vietnam or other French Union territory be used as refuge by elements which might influence security frontier region or good neighborly relations with border states.”

Evident Pignon not as confident on border situation as his press condemn Bao Dai departure indicated (Contel 436, December 12).¹⁰

Pouched Hanoi. Department pass Paris, Hong Kong.

Abbott

9. Leon M. Pignon, French High Commissioner in Indochina.
10. Not printed; Bao Dai, Chief of State of Vietnam since June 14, 1949, departed for France.