NND Project Number: NND 63316. By: NWD Date: 2011
TOP SECRET SENSITIVE
| Control: | 10534 |
| Rec'd: | APRIL 20, 1955 |
| 1:57 A.M. |
| FROM: | SAIGON |
| TO: | Secretary of State |
| NO: | 4663, APRIL 19, 11 P.M. (SECTION ONE OF TWO) |
PRIORITY
SENT DEPARTMENT 4663, REPEATED INFORMATION PRIORITY PARIS 1209
FOR SECRETARY FROM COLLINS. PARIS FOR AMBASSADOR.
LIMIT DISTRIBUTION.
1. I called on Diem 1800 April 19 and asked whether he had considered further modified Thoai proposal. Diem handed me following note (in english):
Begin verbatim test.
1) I agree with idea of coalition if it is truly to obtain representation for the great majority of the people:
2) This is in accord with my belief in government which represents the people -- and toward which I have been trying khard to bring Vietnam against so many difficulties;
3) I do not feel that the names given to me as suggestions for members of my cabinet -- men from small opposition parties who actually represent only a handful of people -- are in accord with the principle of having the great majority of the people represented in the government -- which I understand is our mutual desire. Certainly this is the political principle of the United States in its own government:
4) I agree that no one man should manipulate the election of a national assembly so that he dominates it falsely. This is the very reason why I have proposed that we hold a general election -- in a manner which will be most familiar to my people -- to elect a national assembly;
RECORD COPY
