033.1100 NI/11–2753: Telegram
No. 126
The Ambassador in Burma (Sebald) to the Department of State1
518. At function for Vice President Nixon2 last night Foreign Minister told me it essential his hand be strengthened with more than mere promises when question of cease-fire extension considered by Cabinet as Chinese performance to date clearly indicated evacuation is “phony” and Chinese Government has failed demonstrate good faith. He felt Vice President Nixon could be of help in this regard having previously had discussions KMT problem with Burmese President, Prime Minister, Defense Minister and himself in consequence of which Vice President fully conversant with Burmese [Page 175] point of view as well as political consequences which might follow should problem not be speedily solved. Although I had little opportunity discuss KMT problem with Vice President he was well-informed considerations involved including views of Chinese and Thai Governments3 as well as US Government policy.
Vice President had already given “on the record” talk with American correspondents November 25 (mytel 5144). In private conversation with GUB leaders he expressed conviction problem can and must be solved negotiations continued and evacuation made more effective.
On way to airport today I informed Vice President of Foreign Minister’s conversation mentioned above. At airport Vice President invited Prime Minister and Foreign Minister into plane for brief final discussion. Vice President told them he understood their concern and skepticism re further assistance which US Government can appropriately render in finding solution KMT problem but that he did not share their pessimism. He felt solution satisfactory to GUB is possible and that further measures by US Government are feasible although of course unable say what measures could or would be taken as this solely within province President as advised by Secretary State. To this end Vice President assured them he would at first opportunity sent telegram giving his recommendations to Secretary State for discussion with the President in consequence of which he hoped positive results would follow. Above all else he hoped negotiations would not be discontinued and that cease-fire could be extended for reasonable period. Neither Prime Minister nor Foreign Minister gave any commitments but appeared gratified Vice President’s assurance.
- Repeated to Bangkok and Taipei; repeated to New Delhi by the Department.↩
- Vice President Richard M. Nixon visited Burma, Nov. 24–27, as a part of a trip through Asia and the Middle East; regarding his trip, see Part 1, p. 352.↩
- Nixon also visited the Republic of China and Thailand in the course of his trip.↩
- Not printed.↩