NND Project Number: NND 63316. By: NWD Date: 2011
5/10/54, 2:45 p.m.
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-3- 4287, May 10, 1 p.m., from Paris.Control 3907
As a specific request, Laniel asked that a US General officer, fully familiar with the terrain and conditions in Indochina be sent to Paris immediately to confer with General Ely, Pleven and himself. He said that at least in the first instance, it would be imperative to preserve the utmost secrecy concerning this mission and that the only people who would be informed of it, in addition to the three previously mentioned, would be Bidault and Maurice Schumann. He said that it was impossible to spare General Ely at this time for a trip to Washington, which was the reason for his request that a US officer come to Paris. He emphasized the importance of the US officer being fully up to date and informed regarding the terrain and possibilities in Indochina. In addition to the help which this officer could give, Laniel said that he would also require definite information from me as to what the US Government might be prepared to do in the way of military effort. He emphasized the great need for speed and hoped that he could have an answer in principle very shortly to his request for advice from a US General. If the answer were favorable, the US General should arrive before the end of the week in order to be fully effective.
DU:VB/11
Mr. Sturm's office (FE) notified 5/10/2:12 p.m.
Mr. Fisher's office (WE) notified 5/ 10/ 2:12 p.m.
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