Limited Official Use
(Classification)
DEPARTMENT OF STATE
INR BRIEFING NOTE
GIST: Cambodia/CFR: Sihanouk speech disputes both "US" and "Red Khmer" allegations, claims friendship with China.
TO:
The Director, INR
DATE:
12 June 1968
TIME:
0730
SOURCE(S)
CLASS./CONTROL(S)
FBIS 53
OUO
Prince Sihanouk, on the occasion of the dedication of a glassware factory built with CFR assistance, made the following comments on 11 June:
Cambodia has been able to build up its industry with help from China and other friendly countries and not with help from the US or the UN, which is "not too good". Cambodia cooperates with China in the anti-US-imperialist struggle, and follows the same foreign policy, that is, one of independence. Refuting what he terms pro-Chinese propagandists, he says that Cambodia cherishes its independence, is not inclining to XXXX the US, does not want to become the lackey of anyone. Cambodia chose poverty rather than become a lackey of the US. Cambodia is the accomplice of no one, not even China, contrary to the Khmer Reds accusations. The Khmer Reds should stop saying this; they are accomplices, not Cambodia. With the present Sino-Khmer understanding, no misunderstandings are possible. Sino-Khmer friendship is long-standing and constant.
INR Comment: While the Chinese may have appreciated the pledges of friendship, they cannot have been pleased by Sihanouk's XXXX admonishments to the Red Khmers.
INR OFFICE
BRIEFER
EXTENSION
REM
Keogh
2582
LOU
(Classification)
DocId:33061196 Page 14