Page:Pentagon-Papers-Part-V-B-3c.djvu/112

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Declassified per Executive Order 13526, Section 3.3
NND Project Number: NND 63316. By: NWD Date: 2011

Page 3 of telegram to SAIGON, PARIS, PHNOM PEN, VIETNTIANE,

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over areas being evacuated by Viet Minh. The representatives in Vietnam of France and United States should be given broadcast possible delegation of powers to determine coordinated positions these matters.

With specific regard to Binh Xuyen recognized that whatever their unsatisfactory aDd undesirable qualities may be, their position of power should not be underestimated particularly as they control police, are closely tied in with Bao Dai, and in past have been responsible for extensive terroristic activity in Saigon.

Therefore, our course of action should be to seek to isolate the Binh Xuyen particularly from Bao Dai and to minimize their power and influence through strengthening national army as counter. This can only be achieved progressively. At present time it seems necessary to associate them with the government, which might in long run be best method to be in position control them. UNQUOTE.

As noted third paragraph above, Saigon comments requested regarding specific means by which we could carry out courses action included above text.

French Delegation requests text above included within quotes be given Daridan with explanation this sent by US channels their request for his comments.

SMITH

ACTING

767


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