751G.02/1–1950: Telegram
The Ambassador in Thailand (Stanton) to the Secretary of State
43. I believe Department under misapprehension re basic reason for reluctance Thailand and probably other Southeast Asian countries extend recognition Bao Dai. Basic reason is detestation by these countries of colonialism and their repugnance voluntarily to recognize any regime which in their minds represents perpetuation of colonial rule. It is my belief if French forthwith granted Bao Dai real independence as Dutch have to Indos, there would be much less reluctance to extend recognition. In my opinion this feeling is so strong in their minds that it completely outweighs danger Ho Chi Minh establishing Communist Government Indo-China. I believe veiled threats from US withhold assistance these Asian countries would have little influence on their thinking or the position they have adopted on this matter.
Sent Department 43, pouched Rangoon, Manila, Jakarta, New Delhi, Saigon. Department please repeat London, and Paris.