503. Telegram From the Department of State to the Embassy in Thailand1
994. Thai Ambassador called on Assistant Secretary Robertson in Secretary’s absence to deliver letter from Sarit to Secretary.2 Letter, under Defense Ministry letterhead and signed with Field Marshal title only, stated events last month in no way affect two countries’ relationship. It expressed Sarit’s desire enhance US-Thai friendship and his confidence this end will be pursued by future Thai government. Letter added that with substantial reduction threat to Thai security, which necessitated change, nation would resume normal course; thanked [Page 1055] Secretary for showing “true comprehension which once more denotes real American friendship” for Thai people; and offered maintain close contact through you or Khoman. Copy letter being pouched.
Ambassador repeated most points contained in letter; he also said change had majority support because Thai people dissatisfied, referred Sarit’s efforts improve living conditions, assured Robertson interim government would be formed soon (Sarit allegedly says by end November), and claimed he advised Sarit include Thai who enjoy US confidence such as Pote and Prince Wan. He mentioned work of economic committee and his authorization stay here short time to sign US loans and follow up potential private investors in Thailand. He also referred series of fires allegedly in non-Chinese areas Bangkok, and his suspicion they intended create confusion and reflect on new regime’s ability maintain order and improve public welfare. In response Robertson’s questions Ambassador said Sarit’s health “good” except gaining too much weight.
Perhaps Ambassador’s most interesting comment was statement Sarit would appreciate very much “if US could make some gesture of support for government to be formed”. We realize danger of making significant gesture if Sarit’s days numbered and if gesture should be used to delay return of government stability and legal processes. Our tentative thinking therefore is make noncommital but friendly reply Secretary to Sarit letter at time interim government formed, if indeed government established appears to be constructive one.
Secretary’s letter which could be construed as mild gesture US approval could perhaps also refer to successful completion loan package even though loans may be signed and publicized before Sarit receives letter. (Thanat appears most anxious sign loan package before his return to Bangkok in two or three weeks.)
Request your comments and any alternative suggestions for “gesture”.
- Source: Department of State, Central Files, 792.00/11–1358. Confidential; Limit Distribution. Drafted by Bushner, cleared by Jenkins and Kocher, and approved by Robertson.↩
- A summary of Sarit’s letter is in Tosec 27 to Paris, December 17. (Ibid., 611.92/12–1758) The text of the letter is ibid., 792.00/11–858.↩