Office of the Historian

751G.02/5–1050: Telegram

The Acting Secretary of State to the Legation at Saigon

confidential
Washington, May 10, 1950—5 p. m.

279. Dept somewhat concerned possibility Bao Dai leaving IC this month for visit Fr. At moment establishment new Cabinet, impending departure first aid shipment, conclusion bilateral aid agreement and other developments, Dept considers Bao Dai’s place is in Vietnam and absence may have deleterious effect IC and abroad. It wld seem important for propaganda purposes that Chief of State give impression devoting full effort to pressing interests Vietnam.

What are avowed purposes trip? Dept hopes they include intention bring back Imperial family to Vietnam as indication Bao Dai’s faith future his country and intention establish permanent residence there.

Foregoing may be tactfully discussed with Pignon if suitable opportunity offers and at ur discretion.1

Webb

  1. In telegram 368, May 19, Gullion stated the following:

    “Consider Bao Dai should remain IC at least till receipt of first US aid shipment and that in interim he should undertake program of military and village welfare inspection. Assume trip could be linked to interstate conference to be held at Cannes. As site for conference latter city has some propaganda disadvantages but do not consider we need voice opinion. Pignon arriving this afternoon and will discuss this first opportunity with him and Bao Dai.” (751G.02/5–1950)

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