Identifier | Created | Classification | Origin |
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05BRATISLAVA140 | 2005-02-19 13:07:00 | SECRET | Embassy Bratislava |
This record is a partial extract of the original cable. The full text of the original cable is not available. |
S E C R E T BRATISLAVA 000140 |
1. (S) Charge was briefed evening of February 19 by Milan Jezovica, the Prime Minister's foreign policy adviser, of the principal themes PM Mikulas Dzurinda would likely use during his February 24 meeting with the President. Jezovica began by noting that the Prime Minister was very excited about the President's visit, recognizes there is not much time during the formal visit, and thus will very welcoming but business-like. The PM will focus on three themes: freedom, economic development, and future generations. Jezovica spoke from rough notes and used the opportunity to explore formulations, phrasings, and vocabulary (the Prime Miniser will speak in English). 2. (C) The more freedom we have, the better we live. The global process of enlarging the space of freedom and stability requires leadership and the cooperation/contributions of many. It is thus in the interest of Slovakia to have world leaders like the President. Success in Iraq, Afghanistan, Kosovo, and elsewhere proves the wisdom of a policy of engagement, and thus the need to continue that policy. Slovakia will play its part as a matter of principle and national interest. 3. (C) Referring to the President's meeting the same day with Russian President Putin, the PM will caution that we should have "no illusions" about Russia. The key to Russia is Ukraine -- the stronger democracy is in Ukraine, the better chance for it to take hold in Russia, as well as Ukraine's northern (Belarus) and southern (Moldova) neighbors. Dzurinda has met on several occasions with Yushenko and has invited Timosenko for an official visit even before her confirmation by the rada. We should be demanding of Yushenko that he promote reform, but fair in our expectations (and supportive). 4. (C) Dzurinda will point out to the President that many of the economic reforms that have proved so successful in Slovakia (flat tax, health care reform, etc.) had their intellectual origins in the U.S. He will stress the need for, and open door to, additional U.S. investment and note that it is a win-win for the U.S. and Slovak economies. 5. (C) The long term relations between our two countries depend upon future generations knowing and understanding each other better. Dzurinda will welcome the visa waiver roadmap, but press for additional steps. U.S. visa policy remains incongruous as Slovakia has entered the EU. Slovaks have enjoyed freedom of movement throughout Europe for the past fifteen years without dire security or economic consequences, which U.S. policy needs to recognize. 6. (S) COMMENT: As the above shows, many of the themes the President is likely to include in his own remarks will be preaching to the choir. Dzurinda's instincts are inherently Transatlantic, but his government is often reactive and reticent to press its views in NATO and EU councils. The President could usefully temper his praise for Dzurinda's and Slovakia's accomplishments with encouragement to take a more proactive role in supporting our common goals and interests. THAYER NNNN |