155. Editorial Note
On April 29 the United States and France signed an agreement providing for a United States grant of $100 million in assistance to the French Expeditionary Corps (FEC) in Indochina. The $100 million figure represented a little less than 25 percent of the estimated cost of the FEC for 1955. Immediately prior to the signing, the French were informed orally that the United States would feel obliged to reexamine its program of financial support if serious policy differences regarding Vietnam continued between Paris and [Page 324] Washington. French Finance Minister Pflimlin, speaking for his government, stated he fully understood and appreciated the United States position. It was agreed with the French that no press statements or publicity should be given to the signing of this agreement. (Telegrams 3777 and 3813 to Paris, April 22 and 26, respectively, and telegrams 4667, 4729, and 4732 from Paris, April 27, 29, and 29, respectively; Department of State, Central Files, 751G.5–MSP/4–2255 to 751G.5–MSP/4–2955)