UNDERSCORING THE IMPORTANCE OF IRAQI ELECTIONS

C O N F I D E N T I A L ABU DHABI 000132 SIPDIS E.O. 12958: DECL: 01/07/2009 TAGS: PGOV PREL IZ TC SUBJECT: UNDERSCORING THE IMPORTANCE OF IRAQI ELECTIONS DEMARCHE REF: STATE 4932 (U) Classified by Ambassador Michele J. Sison, reasons 1.4 (b) and (d). ¶1. (C) On January 8, Pol Chief delivered reftel points to MFA Assistant Under Secretary for International Cooperation Mohammed Abdul Jaleel, emphasizing that the January elections are part of a larger process aimed at choosing Iraq,s future leadership and shaping the country,s future. Abdul Jaleel said the UAE wants nothing more than to see Iraq,s unity, stability and security restored. While the UAE is hopeful that the elections will help in that regard, Abdul Jaleel opined that the U.S. is in a &difficult position8 because it has to contend with Iraqis who have not seen the improvements that &they were told would come8 after Saddam Hussein,s removal from power. ¶2. (C) Pol Chief used the opportunity to note the USG,s appreciation for the positive role the UAE is playing in allowing the International Office for Migration to organize the Iraqi Out-of-Country Vote. &We will continue to help the Iraqi people until they achieve stability and security,8 Abdul Jaleel replied. He cited the UAE,s other contributions to Iraq, including financial support, pledge of debt relief, humanitarian aid, and training for Iraqi police and armed forces. ¶3. (U) Baghdad minimize considered. SISON