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Refer to: 1 -12691/5

22 April 1955 Dear Walter:

I refer to the current situation in South Vietnam and the probable necessity for review of the basic policy in that area.

An analysis of the problems has been made by my staff in the attached staff study. I think it is an excellent study and I highly recommend you and your staff read it.

While I realize these problems have no easy solution, to me the basic issues are quite clear. I believe there are three major areas of weakness in South Vietnam as follows:

a. The need for a solution of the problem of how we can achieve our ends in South Vietnam and yet live with the French.

b. The need for a solution of how we can achieve internal order with particular reference to the sects, the lack of internal communications, and the lack of strength in the central government. (During my recent trip I conferred with Diem at which time he stated that if his government could become strong he felt the people would rally to it, and that at present Ho Chi Minh offered the only strong rallying point to the people of South Vietnam.)

c. The need for a solution of how we can achieve a suitable government of South Vietnam, with particular reference to its relationship to Bao Dai, the broadening of its base, and the participation of capable people within the government.

(I feel that in the past we have made a mistake in building the government upon one man.)

In view of the probable nature of the problems to be discussed with General Collins during his visit, I consider that this information may be of value to you.

Mr. Walter S. Robertson

Assistant Secretary for

Far Eastern Affairs

Department of state

Incl. - 1 (in dup) Rh