851G.01/12–3049: Telegram
The Consul General at Saigon (Abbott) to the Secretary of State
474. Pass Paris.1 Pouched Hanoi. In hectic rush ending 2:30 a. m. December 29 agreement reached on about 30 conventions signed today covering transfer powers in following fields: justice, military, economics, finance, public works, cultural affairs, public health, information, personnel.
Justice convention provides for mixed tribunals for criminal and civil cases involving citizens of French Union and privileged foreigners (Chinese). Presidents mixed courts and state attorneys to be appointed mutual agreement French Vietnam.
Sûreté entirely transferred Vietnam in principle but French Sûreté will continue control immigration and interstate travel until completion [Page 116] of forthcoming interstate conference, and validate Viet Government passports and travel authorizations until Vietnam achieves international recognition. Counter-espionage and anti-terrorist activities of French Sûreté on behalf French Union troops to continue until restoration of order. Only permanent Sûreté organization will be liaison mission with Vietnam Sûreté to coordinate security French Union. Viets may have similar mission in Paris.
Permanent military convention covers bases for and activities of French Union troops. Described by Nguyen Phan Long as more liberal than US–Philippine agreement. Separate agreement covers situation until peace and order restored.
Above based on summary and analysis furnished Consulate General by French and press interview Nguyen Phan Long. No information re date publication actual texts.
- This was done the same day.↩