EGYPT SUPPORTS COMPREHENSIVE UN REFORM BUT

UNCLAS CAIRO 005296

SIPDIS

E.O. 12958: N/A
TAGS: PREL EG UNSC
SUBJECT: EGYPT SUPPORTS COMPREHENSIVE UN REFORM BUT
CONCERNED ABOUT AFRICAN DYNAMICS

REF: STATE 126870


1. (U) Charge met with the Foreign Ministry's Chief of
Cabinet Ambassador Sameh Shukry on July 11 to deliver reftel
demarche regarding the G-4 framework resolution on UN reform.
The Charge stressed that the USG is open to UNSC enlargement
but believes the G-4 resolution, if adopted, would be
divisive. The Charge urged the GOE to support the USG's
comprehensive approach to UN reform by agreeing to address
UNSC expansion along with the other UN reform issues on the
agenda.


2. (C) Ambassador Shukry responded that the GOE supports
the U.S. position that UNSC expansion should be part of a
package of overall reforms, but noted its commitment to
abiding by the AU position, adopted in Sirte, authorizing a
draft declaration regarding the Security Council. Shukry
suggested that with the active AU position on this issue,
there would reasonably be debate on the merits of the G-4
proposal. He stressed that the GOE is inclined to deal with
this matter delicately to avoid division within Africa. He
further noted his concern that certain nations are inclined
to move forward on reform quickly. Nigeria and Ghana, he
clarified, "may be seeking to engage for ulterior motives"
and thus, the U.S. would be wise to make its demarche on UN
reform to "those who want to move too quickly." (Note:
Shukry was likely referring to Nigeria's quest for a UNSC
seat. End note). The Charge signaled his appreciation for
the Ambassador's comments on dynamics among African nations
and stressed again that the USG needs GOE support on this
matter.



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