180. Editorial Note
On May 22, Prime Minister Souvanna Phouma released through the Lao Presse the text of a letter to the International Control and Supervision Commission for Laos informing the Commission that the Royal Government of Laos considered that, with the conclusion of the supplemental elections, the implementation of the 1954 Geneva Agreements on Laos had been accomplished. The letter specifically stated that the elections of May “have put the seal on total integration of all Lao citizens into the National community.” The Royal Lao Government requested that the Commission inform it of its plans for an [Page 452] early departure from Laos. The text of this letter was transmitted in telegram 1999 from Vientiane, May 22. (Department of State, Central Files, 751G.00/5–2358)
On May 31, Souvanna sent the Commission a letter clarifying the one of May 22. A translated text was transmitted in telegram 2071 from Vientiane, May 31. It reads as follows:
“In my letter of May 22 I had honor to advise you RLG considered as fully accomplished the implementation of agreement on cessation of hostilities in Laos as well as fulfillment of all obligations undertaken by this government at Geneva conference.
“In order avoid any ambiguity on this subject, I wish to specify that RLG intends to continue to observe the engagement contained in its declaration made at Geneva regarding the military agreement and expressed in these terms:
“RLG is resolved never to pursue a policy of aggression and will never permit territory of Laos to be used in furtherance of such a policy.
“RLG will not join in any agreement with other states if this agreement includes obligation for RLG to (1) enter into military alliance not in conformity with principles of UN Charter and with principles of agreement on cessation of hostilities and as long as its security is not threatened, (2) establish bases on Lao territory for military forces of foreign powers (except for bases provided for in Article 8 of Geneva agreement).
“RLG is resolved to settle its international disputes by peaceful means so that international peace and security as well as justice shall not be endangered.
“During period which will elapse between date of cessation of hostilities in Vietnam and final settlement of political problems in that country, RLG will not request foreign aid, whether in war material, in personnel or in instructors, except for purpose of its effective territorial defense and within limits fixed by agreement on cessation of hostilities.” (Ibid.)