790B.54/9–2353
No. 106
President Eisenhower to Prime Minister Nu1
Dear Mr. Prime Minister: I have received your letter of September twelfth, and thank you for your frank expression of Burmese views regarding the presence of foreign forces in Burma. I am indeed aware of the importance of a solution to this problem, and I have been most anxious that the efforts being made to help your country resolve it should prove fruitful.
In our discussions with President Chiang Kai-shek concerning the matter we have found that he shares our conviction regarding the importance of removing these foreign troops from Burmese soil. In view of your letter I am sending President Chiang a personal message,2 reiterating my interest in the problem and my sense of the urgency of a solution insofar as this is within the power of the Chinese Government.
The limitations to action which can be taken by that Government must also be realistically recognized, and I trust that your representative’s withdrawal from the Bangkok talks will not militate against such recognition and thus defer the reaching of a practical [Page 152] solution. Although President Chiang and his Government are now striving to bring about the evacuation of these troops it has become evident that their control over a portion of them is small indeed. While a limited group appears disposed to accept repatriation there is little more that can be done, either by President Chiang or through international action, to force the remainder to join an evacuation movement.
I am sure that in writing you I need not insist on the fact that allegations to the effect that the United States Government does not really wish these troops to leave Burma are totally without foundation, and are designed merely to sow dissent and suspicion between our two nations.
I should like to take this opportunity to express my sincere admiration for the manner in which you and your colleagues have dedicated yourselves to repairing the ravages of war and insurrection, and to congratulate you on your progress in realizing a strong and independent Burma. I particularly welcome your remarks on your attitude toward the menace of communism. You may be assured of the continued friendly interest of the United States as you move forward to the goals which you have set for your country.
Sincerely,3