Office of the Historian

482. Telegram From the Embassy in Laos to the Department of State1

Vientiane, October 23, 1957—6 p.m.

645. Department pass CINCPAC for POLAD.

1.
I paid brief courtesy call on Souvanna 23d during which he sought avoid discussion Pathet Lao problem. I nevertheless expressed surprise at developments past few days and said in view RLG expectation United States would support Laos during period implementation of any settlement, I expected we would have opportunity comment before communiqué issued. I reiterated United States viewpoint well known to him and had not changed as Phoui could confirm on basis Washington talks. Actually I had just received 2 lengthy messages (Deptels 403 and 4142) and believed RLG would wish have gist of them as soon as possible. In view tomorrow’s holiday3 I assumed [Page 999] this meant 25th to which Souvanna replied it was possible he and Phoui could call me in after day’s ceremonies.
2.
With respect two telegrams from Dept with which I of course agree, I fear they will not affect situation much as communiqué appears to have been accepted by every political leader of consequence except Phoui who was away. Furthermore with polit and milit agreements evidently far advanced opportunity to modify them may be quite limited. Therefore real question to which we may have to face up is in what way “reappraisal” foreseen in November 13, 56 letter is to be evidenced. We believe any time gained by our current delaying tactics should be devoted to consideration of our next steps if deal nevertheless goes through.
3.
Crown Prince has returned Vientiane and through Phoui I have requested audience soonest.
Parsons
  1. Source: Department of State, Central Files, 751J.00/10–2357. Secret; Priority. Repeated to Paris, London, Saigon, Bangkok, and Phnom Penh,↩
  2. Documents 478 and 480.↩
  3. United Nations Day.↩