GUATEMALA ON IRAQ TRANSITIONAL GOVERNMENT

UNCLAS GUATEMALA 001179

SIPDIS

SENSITIVE

E.O. 12958: N/A
TAGS: PREL PGOV IZ GT
SUBJECT: GUATEMALA ON IRAQ TRANSITIONAL GOVERNMENT

REF: STATE 79107


1. (SBU) Following up on reftel demarche, the Ambassador
spoke with Guatemalan Acting FM Marta Altolguirre to urge the
GOG to welcome the formation of the Iraq Transitional
Government and convey support for Iraq's reconstruction and
political transition.


2. (SBU) Altolaguirre said she was impressed by Iraq's
successful elections, peaceful transition and the inclusion
of Sunnis in the government. She said that, in the absence
of diplomatic relations with Iraq, the MFA considered it
would be awkward to issue unilaterally a statement of support
for the ITG. Guatemala would therefore look for an
appropriate (i.e., multilateral) venue to convey its support.
She said she would take up with FM Briz the issue of
establishing relations with Iraq.
HAMILTON