892.014/11–446
Memorandum by the Chief of the Division of Southeast Asian Affairs (Moffat) to the Under Secretary of State (Acheson)
You will recall that we reserved comment on the Siamese suggestion that there be recited in the proposed French-Siamese Agreement a statement that Siam was returning the disputed territories in accordance, inter alia, with American recommendations.
Informally, I informed both the French and Siamese, and also the British, that we were opposed to any reference to the United States in the body of a French-Siamese Agreement; that although we would prefer no reference at all we might consider, if needed to secure conclusion [Page 1099] of the Agreement, some reference in the Preamble which would not identify us with any particular recommendations made just to one side. The British view is similar to ours.13
Agreement has now been reached between the French and Siamese, subject only to Paris approval, on a Preamble reading:
“Le Gouvernement de la République Française et le gouvernement Siamois, agissant conformement á l’ideal des Nations Unies and dans l’intérêt de la paix du monde; considérant les points de vue exprimés par les gouvernements anglais et americain; et désireux de rétablir les relations de paix et d’amitié traditionnelles entre les deux pays, ont nommé à cet effet pour leur Plénipotentiaires:” Etc.
The French believe that Paris approval of the foregoing Preamble and of the proposed text will be forthcoming Wednesday and that the Agreement can be signed Thursday.
If we insist on the deletion of the reference as proposed, Prince Wan must secure authority from Bangkok as its substance was included in his instructions. This might cause substantial delay in concluding the Agreement. It is recommended, if you concur, that we inform Georges-Picot and Prince Wan that while we would prefer its omission we will not object if the clause is retained in the Preamble as set forth above.14