751G.00/7–1353: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Embassy at Saigon1
84. From Bonsal. While in Paris saw Navarre, Letourneau, Reynaud, Jacquet,2 Cheysson, DeMargerie, Tezenas du Montcel, Offroy. Most of what they told me already reported by Embassy.
Navarre continuing effort obtain equivalent about fifteen new battalions from French Union promptly. Recognizes technical and other difficulties involved but continues hopeful. Reynaud and DeMargerie pessimistic as to giving further troops. Reynaud referred recent Ridgway report regarding weakness Western Europe defense as further argument against meeting Navarre’s request.
Reynaud and Jacquet most emphatic regarding parliamentary and public opinion pressure in direction early and substantial alleviation Indochina drain.
Letourneau expressed great concern rapid deterioration French parliamentary and public support for continuation effort in Indochina. Said only “solid” element current cabinet is Bidault. Deplored tendency replace men with knowledge Indochina and of specific consequences French actions there with men unfamiliar with situation. Expressed contempt for Reynaud’s understanding of Indochina. Added Faure and Mitterand3 both favor soft solution—which in Letourneau’s view would eventually result destruction Vietnamese who have favored present Franco-Vietnamese effort. Letourneau said increase French Union troops this time might have adverse political results in Associated States.
Interesting to note while Reynaud favored July 3 statement Bidault reported have thought it went too far. Reynaud believes French cannot continue much longer bear present burden Indochina. Bidault probably understands how vitally French interests elsewhere in world would be affected by disastrous or dishonorable end to seven years sacrifices in Indochina. Is it farfetched to speculate Reynaud in opening way for extremely broad renegotiation relations between France and Associated States, may expect latter will make such extreme demands as to throw into doubt far as French public opinion concerned Vietnamese concept of French Union as representing recognized mutuality of interests. Those in France who wish abandon Indochina effort would be greatly strengthened such development. (Navarre has [Page 674] strong views regarding minimum rights France should retain if French expected continue fight this war. Envisages economic preferences and military bases.) When time comes we may wish discreetly use our influence see positions taken by Vietnamese do not contribute to further weakening French will continue fight and when peace restored, continue help develop and protect Vietnam. May we have your views. Since no opportunity doing so myself asked Tezenas du Montcel see Reynaud and Jacquet briefed on background and status of plans for Tam visit.
- Drafted by Bonsal of PSA. Repeated to Paris as telegram 138.↩
- Marc Jacquet, Secretary of State for the Associated States. The Ministry for the Associated States was abolished on July 3. Jacquet reported directly to Premier Laniel.↩
- Francois Mitterand, member of the National Assembly; President of the Democratic and Socialist Union of Resistance.↩