Foreign Relations of the United States, 1964–1968, Volume III, Vietnam, June–December 1965

265. Telegram From the Embassy in Burma to the Department of State¹

Rangoon, December 29, 1965.

315. Eyes only for Secretary. Ref: Deptel 202;² Embtel 311.³ I called upon DRV Consul General at 3 p.m. today. Was received initially by Lam Bao who remained as interpreter during discussion. I took Leo Reddy, junior officer of Political Section who speaks French, in hopes he might be useful if further liaison develops.

Vu Huu Binh then received me with slight smile and ready handshake. I told him I was grateful for opportunity to see him personally as my government wished me to convey message directly to him for transmittal to his government. I then handed him the aide-memoire. He and his interpreter studied document together with interpreter translating parts thereof into Vietnamese.

After studying document Vu Huu Binh said he would transmit it to his government. At this point we were served with beer (I believe South Vietnamese). I thanked him and told him I planned to keep my visit to him and the subject thereof quite confidential. I had come in official U.S. Embassy car but not my own because it was conspicuous. He said that on his part he would also keep matter confidential.

I told him my instructions had reached me just as I was departing for the airport to go to Sandoway for a few days rest and to join my family who were already there. I wanted him to know that I was cancelling my vacation and would be available in Rangoon anytime of day or night if he should wish to see me. Also, a member of my staff could always be available if he wished to relay a message. I told him I cared nothing about protocol niceties and we could meet quite secretly if he so desired.

Vu Huu Binh said he could tell me nothing except that he would transmit message to his government. I thanked him again for receiving me and he thanked me for coming. He accompanied me to car and politely shook hands. Discussion lasted about eight minutes.

Although conversation was interpreted, it was obvious Vu Huu Binh understood my remarks. Moreover, by his acceptance of formal communication I believe we got our message across to DRV.

Byroade

1. Source: Department of State, Central Files, POL 27-14 VIET. Secret; Immediate; Nodis; Pinta. The source text does not indicate a time of transmission; the telegram was received at 7:15 a.m.
2. Document 257.
3. Telegram 311 from Rangoon, December 29, concerned preliminary arrangements for delivery of the aide-memoire under discussion here. (Department of State, Central Files, POL 27-14 VIET)