Office of the Historian

71. Telegram From the Director of the Office of Philippine and Southeast Asian Affairs (Young) to the Department of State1

Paris, March 23, 1955—8 p.m.

4074. Regarding sect problem in Viet Nam, I had several conversations today with French officials, including private meetings with General Ely and La Forest, Minister for Associated States. French (1) urge joint Franco-United States approach to Bao Dai to play for time and mediate modus vivendi; (2) desire quick formation national union government broadly representative various groups, perhaps as pushed by Bao Dai; and (3) want to avoid at any cost Diem-sect affair turning into armed conflict. French officials say they are convinced Diem cannot alone settle sect problem and needs assist from Bao Dai and other elements in Viet Nam. General Ely told me he fully shares these views.

He concurred in summary Collins telegram to Department 4042, repeated information Paris 1073.2 I told him General Collins last Thursday3 had underlined his belief Diem cannot afford give in to sect terms or threats since authority of government in Viet Nam at stake, and that Bao Dai must exert positive influence not just passive attitude. Ely planning arrive Saigon Sunday.4 Embassy officers and I emphasize any joint intervention Viet Nam should be done by Generals Collins and Ely.

I have impression French may tend underrate capabilities Diem and other anti-sect elements, overplay role Bao Dai, and treat Diem and sect leaders as two parties on same plane in dispute. These factors need careful consideration if we and French are to move effectively in this affair. To counteract these views I stressed necessity uphold Diem’s authority. Roux showed us telegram from Daridan reporting joint discussion with Collins which gave joint evaluation Diem no longer can count on support from National Army, to the same extent.

[
Young
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  1. Source: Department of State, Central Files, 751G.00/3–2355. Secret; Priority. Repeated to Saigon priority for Collins from Young. Earlier in the week, Young had been in Saigon for discussions with Collins and the Embassy staff. On his return trip to Washington, he stopped in Paris for talks with the Embassy staff on problems of mutual concern. (Telegram 4009 from Saigon, March 20; ibid., 751G.00/3–2055)↩
  2. Document 69.↩
  3. March 17.↩
  4. March 27.↩