528. Telegram From the Department of State to the Embassy in Thailand1
366. Ambassador is authorized to extend invitation through RTG to King and Queen of Thailand for ten day visit to United States at invitation of President. Late June 1960 has been tentatively set as approximate time during which visit could take place if this meets Their Majesties’ convenience. Visit should begin on a Tuesday or Wednesday with first three days spent in Washington and remainder of time elsewhere in United States, depending on Their Majesties’ interests and desires. Should King and Queen wish to remain in United States for longer period than ten day state visit, expenses beyond that period would be responsibility of RTG. Official party should not exceed ten persons.
[Page 1089]Further details concerning visit will be forwarded as soon as acceptance received. If Their Majesties accept, it is proposed make agreed simultaneous public announcements Bangkok and Washington but essential no prior publicity pending receipt royal acceptance.2
- Source: Department of State, Central Files, 792.11/8–1859. Confidential; Priority. Drafted by Anthony C. Swezey; cleared by Assistant Secretary Parsons, Clement Conger of the Protocol Staff, and Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs Robert Murphy; and signed by Acting Secretary Dillon.↩
- Ambassador Johnson reported that he formally extended the invitation to the King and Queen at an audience on August 27, following which the official announcement of the visit was made. (Telegram 429 to Bangkok, August 26, and telegram 490 from Bangkok, August 27; ibid., 792.11/8–2659 and 792.11/8–2759)↩