Foreign Relations of the United States, 1955–1957, East Asian Security; Cambodia; Laos, Volume XXI

500. Telegram From the Department of State to the Embassy in Laos¹

Washington, November 7, 1957—7:22 p.m.

494. Vientiane 740 repeated Paris 158 London 151 Saigon 209 Bangkok 22 Phnom Penh Unnumbered passed CINCPAC POLAD.² Confused situation Laos makes decisions re next U.S. steps difficult. Problem seems come down to content elusive political and military accords and effect Assembly action thereon. (On latter point Canadians have report Souvanna stated to Assembly that in absence objections he would assume Assembly approval. Request your comments.)

Whether or not political and military accords turn out be acceptable, appears we should in order further delay coalition seek bolster Katay–Phoui who consider agreements not formally approved by appropriate governing bodies. This tack becomes essential if as we suspect political and military accords conflict with November 2 Communiqué and call for immediate PL entry into Cabinet. In this event we should utilize insistence on formal and orderly ratification procedures to attempt obtain changes to call for restoration RLG authority two provinces and integration PL troops as first steps any settlement. Otherwise Souvanna will proceed with his own interpretation communiqué and Assembly action to suit his reckless course.

Procurement texts agreements clearly necessary and we should not yield to Souvanna’s stalling.³ You therefore instructed deliver note along lines paragraph 6a reference telegram if Souvanna fails deliver shortly. You might add U.S. which deeply interested and involved welfare Laos unable formulate position on plans critical for future country without possessing basic documents. (FYI: We have no intention giving Souvanna requested two-month grace period for operation coalition scheme since this would of course be abandonment opposition to what U.S continues believe perilous course. As you have told him however our reply will be communicated only after thorough study details “settlement”.) We believe message from Secretary to Crown Prince should be held in reserve for prospective more serious situation.

So far as paragraph 6b concerned, November 13 letter and your recall for consultation should coalition take place remain basic elements our policy and plans re Laos. We prefer decide details their use however as situation develops.

Possibility tripartite action, either at our initiative or in response RLG request, being kept in mind.

Dulles

1. Source: Department of State, Central Files, 751J.00/11–657. Secret; Priority. Drafted by Byrne, cleared by Kocher, and approved by Jones. Repeated to Paris, London, Saigon, Phnom Penh, Bangkok, and CINCPAC for POLAD.
2. Supra.
3. Souvanna Phouma gave the Embassy a copy of the military agreement on November 12 and a copy of the political agreement on November 13. Texts are in telegrams 773 and 796 from Vientiane, November 12 and 13, neither printed. (Department of State, Central Files, 751J.00/11–1257 and 751J.00/11–1357, respectively)