Foreign Relations of the United States, 1958–1960, South and Southeast Asia, Volume XV

538. Telegram From the Department of State to the Embassy in Thailand¹

Washington, November 30, 1959—7:16 p.m.

1328. Your 1372, rptd info Saigon 194, CINCPAC for POLAD 136.² Department increasingly concerned over manner in which Vietnamese repatriation agreement is apparently being implemented and concurs in your view size registration figure is so high as to suggest possibility of Thai governmental pressure, DRV-inspired semi-terrorist tactics within Vietnamese community, or combination of both. Our concern is motivated by (1) importance of safeguarding principle of voluntary repatriation and (2) danger to free world interests arising from increased tension between RTG and GVN.

While fully recognizing the desirability from standpoint Thai security interests of getting rid of Vietnamese minority we believe manner in which repatriation is handled is important for reasons of both principle and policy. US has steadfastly upheld principle of voluntary repatriation in Korea and elsewhere, has publicly opposed forcible repatriation and would do so again. In addition to consistent adherence to voluntary principle we cannot fail to be deeply concerned over prospect that people may be sent unwillingly and through fear or ignorance into Communist slavery. Department anticipates possible public queries and even protests if US attitude is not demonstrably consistent with voluntary principle. Department therefore suggests Embassy query RTG as to exact procedures being followed and attempt establish as many facts as possible to enable us to deal effectively with expected inquiries. You may if necessary warn RTG we may be forced to protest if voluntary principle not adequately safeguarded.

Our apprehension that Rangoon Agreement would be used in various ways as DRV chosen instrument to muddy waters between RTG and GVN now appears well founded and prospect of further acrimonious recriminations between Bangkok and Saigon climaxing in possible cancellation of King’s visit to GVN is genuinely alarming in present context of affairs in SEA.³ Recommend you express to RTG our deep and growing concern over worsening relations between two resolutely anti-Communist friendly nations and point out that continued public airing of their differences directly serves Communist interests.

Herter

1. Source: Department of State, Central Files, 292.51G22/11–2459. Confidential. Drafted by Swezey, cleared by Anderson and Steeves, and approved by Parsons. Repeated to Saigon and CINCPAC for POLAD.
2. Supra.
3. The King and Queen of Thailand visited the Republic of Vietnam, December 18–21. According to despatch 212 from Saigon, January 12, 1960, the Royal visit did not seem to have any effect on the refugee problem. (Department of State, Central Files, 792.11/1–1260)