278. Telegram From the Department of State to the Embassy in Laos0
668. Eyes Only Ambassadors and Admiral Felt. Ref: Deptel 669.1
Following is text President’s personal message to Phoumi: (not to be released except as indicated Reftel)
“Excellency: The efforts made over the past months to reach a peaceful settlement in Laos have had my closest personal attention. Our work at Geneva has brought such a settlement within reach. It is now of crucial importance that a government of national union be formed at the earliest possible date if what has thus far been achieved is not to be lost and with it our hopes of peace and progress in your country.
I want you to know that in their discussions with you Ambassadors Harriman and Brown reflected my views and I strongly urge you to follow the advice they have given you. I feel that you personally have a great responsibility for the future of Laos and that you could contribute much now and in the future to the maintenance of Lao independence and sovereignty. I hope you will make it possible for us to work with you toward these objectives. I assure you that as long as you do so, you will have my unfailing support and friendship. Sincerely.”
- Source: Department of State, Central Files, 751J.00/1–2762. Secret; Niact. Drafted by Cleveland; cleared by Queneau, Rice, Cross, and Kaysen; approved in substance by the President and Ball; and approved and signed by Harriman. Also sent niact to Bangkok and CINCPAC. Repeated priority to the Delegation at the Punte del Este Conference for the Secretary.↩
- Document 279.↩