Office of the Historian

396.1 BE/2–654: Telegram

The Secretary of State to the President

top secret
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Berlin, February 6, 1954—1 p.m.

Dulte 42. For President copy eyes only for Acting Secretary from Secretary. Greatly appreciate your message.1 We approach critical aspect in relation to Indochina. Yesterday I proposed restricted conference Monday2 on Far Eastern agenda item. This had been agreed to last week when we left full conference discussion of first agenda item. Had hoped events might make this restricted session unnecessary or at least that specific discussion Indochina could be avoided. But French insistent and British strongly press for some “constructive” move our part in Asian area. Under circumstances felt it was best for me to make the proposal for restricted meeting as indicating less weakness than if others made it. Also if further discussion inevitable, felt [Page 1021] desirable initiate it prior to worse news from Indochina. Last night I urged Bidault to pass over any suggestion of Indochina negotiation, saying that even to initiate discussion, put us on slippery ground, and might lead to further deterioration morale in Indochina and France. However, he feels that bottom will fall out of French home situation unless he does something here to indicate a desire to end Indochina war.

I shall do everything possible minimize risks, but dare not push Bidault beyond point which he thinks will break his position in France, as he our main reliance both for EDC and Indochina, although on latter Laniel also seems to be firm for continuing French effort.

Dulles

  1. Telegram Tedul 24 to Berlin, Feb. 5, contained the following message from President Eisenhower to Secretary Dulles regarding the progress of deliberations at the Berlin Conference:

    “My impression agrees with yours that Western position has been strengthened. Possibly this is partly due to uncompromising approach of Molotov, but it is equally the result of your skillful tactics and of Bidault’s heartening display of courage and stamina. He apparently gained great confidence from your example, and I hope that his attitude will be reflected in a like increase in the confidence of the French Parliament and population.

    “With greetings to your party and warm regard to you, Eisenhower.” (396.1 BE/2–554)

    The Berlin proceedings are documented fully in volume vii.

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  2. Feb. 8.↩