851G.00/12–746: Telegram
The Ambassador in France (Caffery) to the Secretary of State
[Received December 7—1:51 p.m.]
6019. Views expressed in Department’s 6322, December 575 conveyed to Baudet today. With regard to attitude of Ho Chi Minh, French felt that, while they had never been entirely sure of him, he had left France with the intention of sincerely endeavoring to implement the modus vivendi. However, since his return to Indochina he has been under increased pressure from Communist inspired extremist elements and Ho’s attitude has tended to drift in their direction.
Instructions have been sent to French officials in Indo-China to grant every assistance and complete information to Moffat since it is felt that his visit may be of great assistance.
Baudet confirmed that FonOff feels that the ultimate solution of the Cochin China dilemma will be a scheme for the formal inclusion of Cochin China within Vietnam but with considerable local autonomy which would preserve and guarantee French interests in that region. No approach along this line has as yet been made to him or to any other Vietnam leaders since it is felt that the present atmosphere is not propitious.
Department please repeat to Saigon as our 5.