DUTCH REMAIN CONCERNED ABOUT LIBYA

S E C R E T THE HAGUE 002591

SIPDIS

E.O. 12958: DECL: 10/06/2013
TAGS: PARM MNUC KNNP LY NL
SUBJECT: DUTCH REMAIN CONCERNED ABOUT LIBYA

REF: SECSTATE 282619

Classified By: PolCouns Mary E. Daly reasons 1.5 (b) and (d)


1. (C) The GoNL remains concerned about any increase in EU
interactions with Libya. The lifting of UN sanctions has not
altered the lack of Dutch willingness to engage the with the
Libyan government. PolOff delivered reftel to Mirande
Mulder, MFA Libya desk officer. Mulder noted that the GoNL
shares U.S. concerns over Libya's WMD programs, and does not
favor increased political or economic ties with Libya.
Simply, the Dutch do not trust Ghadaffi and do not see any
tangible benefit in increased cooperation and trade. Mudler
stated the GoNL continues to voice concerns regarding
increased ties at EU meetings, "often the only country that
does."


2. (C) Mulder stated that the Italians and Spaniards are the
strongest forces within the EU pushing for increased
cooperation with Libya. For example, Mulder said that the
Italians want to allow the sale of EU weapons. The GoNL
opposes such a measure. However, noting with concern the
illegal migration to the EU/Italy via Libya, Mulder confirmed
that the GoNL would favor EU cooperation with Libya in this
area, provided that it is strictly for technical programs.
Nevertheless, the Dutch harbor serious concerns regarding
these programs as well. Mulder stated that unless Libyan
visa regulations are changed, the illegal flow will continue,
and "any attempt at cooperation will be useless."
SOBEL