Office of the Historian

893.01/8–2349: Telegram

The Ambassador in Thailand (Stanton) to the Secretary of State

Bangkok, August 23, 1949—1 p. m.
[Received August 24—7:11 a. m.]

739. Following are answers to questions raised Depcirtel August 19, 5 a. m.

1.
(a)
In minds Thai Government and people US and UK are chief opponents communism and therefore nonrecognition would be expected. Thailand almost certainly would follow US–UK lead. Nonrecognition would be welcomed by present government and majority Thailand since this would solve serious problems which would follow recognition by Thailand of Chinese Communist Government. With 3 million Chinese in Thailand occupying dominant position in economy country and with well-organized Chinese Communist group already actively engaged in attempt soften up Thailand through propaganda, it is easy foretell that arrival Chinese Communist diplomatic, consular representatives this country would force virtually all Chinese in Thailand support Communists and would almost certainly precipitate early Communist coup with Thai nationals being used as facade for Communist-dominated people’s democratic government. [Page 63] Nonrecognition by US and principal Western Powers would give Thailand some chance warding off Communist domination. On other hand, recognition by US and Western Powers, which Thailand would feel she must likewise accord in order avoid isolation, would intensify this country’s difficulties and problems to degree where Communists would emerge triumphant and add Thailand to other subjugated countries.
(b)
Whether recognition by principal Western Powers immediate or after reasonable length time would not materially alter problem for Thailand.
(c)
If US were sole power not accord recognition, Thailand would be faced with serious and difficult decision. In such contingency, believe if we gave them comprehensive military and economic support they would stand with us; if not, they would recognize, fearing isolation.
2.
Generally speaking, it is Phibun’s17 policy follow lead US–UK in these matters and adhere decisions UN. He has repeatedly told me this and I believe it represents both his thinking and desire and also desire majority Thailand. However, as previously reported, Thailand fatalistic and inclined take line least resistance unless fully assured foreign support, particularly US. Therefore US decision on question recognition Chinese Communist Government of momentous import to Thailand.
Stanton
  1. Field Marshal Luang Pibul Songgram, Prime Minister of Thailand.↩