124.92/11–745: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Chargé in China (Robertson)
1824. Urtel 1938, Nov 7.11 You may inform FonOff informally that US intends to reestablish regular diplomatic relations and recognize present Government of Siam and that it has been ready to da so since Siam disavowed war and repudiated all agreements and treaties with Japan entered into by the Pibul administration. It is, however, anxious to secure liquidation Brit-Siamese state of war and recognition of Siam by UK. Brit believe resumption of diplomatic relations by US at this time might prejudice early conclusion Brit-Siamese negotiations and US has agreed to defer formal resumption relations for a few weeks. US hopes that Brit resumption of diplomatic relations can be concurrent with US action and would welcome establishment of Chinese relations at same time. It will be glad to keep FonOff informed of American plans.
You may of course also stress US position strongly favoring restoration complete Siamese sovereignty and independence and our attitude regarding Indochinese territories acquired by Siam in 1941.
Please keep Dept informed of Chinese plans and if possible trend of discussions referred to.
Sent to Chungking. Repeated to London and to AmPolAd,12 Bangkok.
- Not printed; it reported the Chinese Government’s interest in whether the United States intended to establish diplomatic relations with and recognize the present government of Siam and recommended that “consideration be given to promptly informing Chinese Govt more fully regarding our intentions regarding Siam”. (124.92/11–745)↩
- American Political Adviser (Yost).↩