Foreign Relations of the United States, 1961–1963, Volume XXIV, Laos Crisis

44. Telegram From Secretary of State Rusk to the Department of State⁰

Bangkok, March 30, 1961, 9 p.m.

Secto 29. Immediately on adjournment of conference, here is my estimate of this session of SEATO.¹

Given low ebb of SEATO unity as backdrop on entering this conference, I feel we have achieved results beyond expectations.

In pre-conference discussions with Phils, Thais, Paks and Australia, a feeling of suspicion existed concerning SEATO and its usefulness with particular apprehension with respect to the formula presented in the British note to the Soviets. So far as French and British were concerned, fear of unacceptable SEATO commitments very apparent, with French attitude approaching apathy and irresponsibility. Series of bilateral and trilateral conferences and constructive discussion in the sessions have, from all indications, succeeded in resuscitating SEATO. Seriousness of the problem at hand has provided basis for realistic exchange of views which have been forthrightly expressed, but, happily, void of vituperation or blame.

This conference has been strikingly void of stereotyped presentations and ministers have addressed themselves with considerable conviction to the tasks at hand.

I believe the passage of the resolution² is the focal point of the conference. In retrospect it may well be referred to as “Bangkok Resolution.” Significance of this resolution is that it has been vehicle for reconsideration and reiteration of the purposes of SEATO. At this critical juncture, it provided a necessary opportunity for members of this organization to reassess obligations and commit themselves to its solemn purposes. It has had the effect of breathing new life into this Alliance.

Samplings of opinion throughout the delegation, in addition to the final statements today, are convincing evidence that it has removed much of the uncertainty from the minds of doubting members such as the Phils and Thais. They have expressed great satisfaction with the results of the conference and there is every indication that they now do not feel abandoned. What is more important, they seem to have a new sense of confidence in SEATO as a result of these consultations. It has been an important step in erasing from their minds the fear that their fate in this part of Asia was being settled by agreement between powers far beyond their reach.

A senior Phil Delegate told US Delegate member that he has attended every SEATO conference since the beginning and that this has been the most profitable of them all.

Although the conference has accomplished much at a very critical period in re-establishing unity in SEATO and has given a renewed sense of individual and collective responsibility, it, of course, is only a beginning in the longer and much more difficult processes of keeping SEATO alive, unified and alert to its continued responsibilities.

Rusk

0. Source: Department of State, Central Files, 379.00/3–2961. Secret; Priority. Repeated priority to London, Paris, Canberra, Wellington, Manila, Karachi, and CINCPAC for POLAD.
1. Additional documentation on the SEATO conference is printed in volume XXIII.
2. See footnote 4, Document 42.