NND Project Number: NND 63316. By: NWD Date: 2011
TOP SECRET
| Control: | 16948 |
| Rec'd: | APRIL 30, 1955 |
| 6:19 PM |
| FROM: | PARIS |
| TO: | Secretary of State |
| NO: | 4746, APRIL 30, 8 PM, (SECTION 2 OF 2) |
NIACT
SENT DEPARTMENT 4746; REPEATED INFORMATION SAIGON 690.
11. We referred to Diem's refusal to obey Bao Dai's summons. Bao Dai stated that it did not surprise him. He had expected i̇t and, in a sense, welcome it as it might serve to clear the air and prove to people that Diem is not acting as servant of the state as he claimed but rather as a self-seeking war lord who wished to eradicate all opposition and hold total power within his own hands and that of his family. Bao Dai would stake his influence with people and Vietnamese nationalists against Diem's.
12. We asked what Bao Dai intended to do if Diem continues to disobey his orders. Bao Dai stated he would take legal steps to have him declared a rebel and would then proceed to unite the country against him until he was removed from position he was usurping. We asked Bao Dai if he intended to do this in person and if so, would it mean a prompt return to Saigon. He answered that it meant that he might return to Saigon in the near future to lead the fight but that would be dependent on the allegiance of the National Army. Moreover he would take no such step without consulting Vietnamese leaders, whom he had summoned to France next week in advance.
13. We asked what effect Diem's refusal to obey his orders would have on arrival in France of other Vietnamese personalities. Bao Dai said he hoped that they would all come as it was now more essential than ever that they be consulted in order that country could now achieve the unity Diem had failed to achieve. We asked for a list of those invited and it was supplied (being cabled separately it is noted that contrary to Bao Dai's first statement April 28 Sects have now been invited and all former Prime Ministers except Tam are included. Quat and Do as well. Bishop Le Huu Tuu has been invited but it is not certain he can come. The list includes buddhists, catholics, army reps,
trade unionists
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