751G.00/2–1754: Telegram
The Chargé at Berlin (Parkman) to the Department of State
889. Repeated information Saigon 1, Paris 202. Secretary at lunch February 17 with Bidault emphasized overriding importance Navarre put forth maximum effort between now and rainy season. Secretary pointed out possibility agreement being reached here on Korean conference which would go on to matter Indochina. Underlined probability that Viet Minh would act under such circumstances as North Koreans did just before conclusion armistice, i.e., make maximum military effort to achieve if not total victory then at least most favorable possible military position before opening talks. Bidault agreed completely and said he would vigorously press this point of view in Paris.