576. Telegram From the Embassy in Thailand to the Department of State1
1121. With reference to Department circular telegram 8792 I submit following views on ECAFE:
From very unpromising and hesitant start ECAFE has made much progress in becoming useful political and economic factor in Asian affairs in spite Soviet presence. It is one organization where Asians meet not only on lofty political level but at practical working levels and is thus not only “getting them acquainted” but has been able to sponsor such major project as Mekong River survey between such diverse countries as Laos, South Vietnam, Cambodia and Thailand. This could have been done only in such organization as ECAFE.
It has also been forum for development of realistic regional highway system which is basic need of area and fundamental to establishment greater regional political and economic consciousness. (Incidentally, [Page 1174] I believe substantial U.S. assistance to early realization such a highway project would make major contribution our objectives this area.)
Soviet participation has transitioned from destructive efforts and propaganda in ECAFE to stance of sympathetic cooperation with Asian needs. I believe it important U.S. increase level of its exhibited interest and participation in ECAFE. Particularly important is most qualified and highest possible level U.S. participation in specialist meetings. These provide opportunity for U.S. influence and speak to broadest possible Asian audience at practical working level.
- Source: Department of State, Central Files, 611.92/12-2660. Secret.↩
- See footnote 2, supra.↩