751G.00/10–549: Telegram
The Consul General at Saigon (Abbott) to the Secretary of State
320. Recent communications from New Delhi and London indicate considerable confusion re purpose Bao Dai letters and good will mission to neighboring states. My understanding has been that:
- (a)
- Bao Dai letters merely announcement his assumption power and not formal request for recognition or establishment diplomatic relations.
- (b)
- Good will mission would then visit neighboring countries, establish personal contacts with government officials, explain new status Vietnam and discuss question recognition and diplomatic relations.
- (c)
- Hoped formal relations would then be established with at least Vatican, Thailand, India and perhaps Burma, Ceylon, Philippines, Australia since French have indicated no objection broadening diplomatic provisions March 8 agreements.
- (d)
- Question recognition by US, UK, other Western Powers then taken up.
Felt that present confusion partially fault French missions abroad particularly New Delhi, Bangkok which have apparently done little pave way for Bao Dai. Proposed acceptance by GOI of informal Vietnam representative (Delhi A–957, September 14, telegram 1178, October 31) would merely raise Bao Dai to equal status Ho Chi Minh who has representative Thailand, Burma, India (and US in person Vangly, head Vietnam-American Friendship Association (mytel 296, September 222)).
[Page 90]Some indication Quai D’Orsay deliberately holding back perhaps in anticipation transfer to its jurisdiction over Indochina. Necessity ratification March 8 agreements possibly another factor.
In absence Pignon, Bao Dai, Du Gardier, hesitate to discuss above with Nguyen Phan Long who is ignorant diplomatic practice and often indiscreet.
Pouched Hanoi, Department pass Paris.3