Thailand and the Viet Minh League (07)

Thailand and the Viet Minh League (07)

In January 1949, as a result of the notice officially given by the French military authorities in Indo-China that they were due to begin a suppression campaign against nationalists in the Thailand-Indo-China border areas, Thai security authorities warned all provincial officers in the border zone to guard against any disturbances resulting from the French operations nearby. The Thai Government also issued an order that those refugees not engaged in political activities  be allowed to stay, while those engaged in organizing anti-French resistance within Thai territory be removed to Indo-China.

Yet, despite Thai co-operation with the French along the frontier they still allowed Viet Minh political organizations to exist in Thailand. These organizations included the Vietnam Government representative, the Vietnam News Service and the Vietnam Relief Association and probably the Vietnam Arms Purchasing Commissions. The Vietnamese held meetings overtly when they could get permission, but in secret when it was withheld, and sent money and arms across the border.

Throughout 1949 money was still being sent, although the increased vigilance of the Thai police and the military made the traffic in arms more difficult. At that time it would seem that the Thais were still  “sitting on the fence” waiting to see which way the wind might blow before acting decisively. This cautious policy, lasted until February 1950, when the Thai Government recognized the French-sponsored Governments in Indo-China.