Foreign Relations of the United States, 1949, The Far East and Australasia, Volume VII, Part 1

851G.01/11–2649: Telegram

The Consul General at Saigon (Abbott) to the Secretary of State

confidential

Saigon, November 26, 1949—noon.

410. Following brief comments on Franco-Cambodian Treaty November 8 furnished on assumption text also released Paris and sent Department by Embassy.

In contrast to March 8 accords with Vietnam, agreement designated as treaty and previous treaties specifically abrogated insofar as conflict with present one. France guarantees “actual frontiers” Cambodia which would appear deny French support for Cambodian demands revision Vietnam frontier. No limitations on number Cambodian diplomatic missions abroad. Treaty specifically designated as “act” specifying status Cambodian-French union called for by article 61 French Constitution. Effective on signature but mutual ratification called for.

Aside from above points, treaty substantially same as March 8 accords but briefer and clearer. Pignon remarked to me that drafting much improved. “We learn by experience”. Same auxiliary accords for implementation required. Bonfils leaves today for Phnompenh to set up joint commission.

Little comment so far Saigon press with great majority not even publishing text.

Pouched Hanoi. Department pass Paris.¹

Abbott

1. This was done the same day.