226. Telegram From the Embassy in Cambodia to the Department of State1
1227. Department pass Defense; Defense pass CINCPAC DEPTAR CNO. This is joint Embassy MAAG message. We have had number conversations on FARK training problem with Nong Kimny who is aware need for MAAG training and discreetly working in that direction. He said Sihanouk is aware American training is best answer development Cambodian armed forces but “present political climate” not right and we must be patient. Nong Kimny seemed think eagerness for training mission would be self-deflating and time working in our favor.
Among reasons why MAAG training mission not feasible now he cited unwritten agreement between Chou En-lai and Cambodians and French at Geneva that no American trainers would be permitted in Cambodia. (We had heard of Eden assurances to Chou that UK would make effort keep United States out of Cambodia, but this is first time we have heard it claimed French and Cambodians gave similar and even more specific assurances Chou. Seems more likely [Page 500] Geneva obligations may have been reinterpreted by Chou during Sihanouk’s recent visit Peking and Sihanouk now more reluctant than before bring United States into training picture while Geneva agreement in force.) Nong Kimny felt presence ICC in Cambodia is temporary deterrent to United States training. Implication was after departure ICC Sihanouk would take new look at situation.
MAAG representative pointed out to Nong Kimny if United States is to be patient in this regard, it would be helpful if Cambodia on its part would take all possible steps create climate for patience, by greater cooperation in purely technical training fields to protect United States investment and by educating maximum number key officers in command and staff courses under United States influence outside Cambodia. It was pointed out this would indicate Cambodians sincere desire to prepare for eventual United States training. Nong Kimny agreed and said he would speak Sihanouk alone these lines. (It remains to be seen if this initiative with the Prince bears fruit.)
Above conversation must be viewed in light recent events in our undulating relations with Cambodians. Sihanouk seems temporarily contrite for overstepping bounds good judgment in criticizing United States during recent weeks. Nong Kimny’s statements may have been merely further effort placate United States and provide insurance against possible cut-off military aid mentioned in United States news accounts. Nevertheless we believe his statements sincere and we see possibility slight headway, with his help, in direction eventual MAAG training.
- Source: Department of State, Central Files, 751H.5–MSP/3–1056. Secret.↩