HUMAN RIGHTS NGO ON EQUATORIAL GUINEA

C O N F I D E N T I A L MADRID 002439

SIPDIS

EUR/WE
AF/C FOR ALLISON LEE

E.O. 12958: DECL: 06/24/2015
TAGS: PREL PHUM SP
SUBJECT: HUMAN RIGHTS NGO ON EQUATORIAL GUINEA


Classified By: Political Counselor Kathy Fitzpatrick; reason 1.4 (D).


1. (U) This is an action request. See para 3.


2. (C) Clara Lopez de Letona of the "Federation of
Associations for the Defense and Promotion of Human Rights,"
a coordinating body for Spanish human rights NGO, contacted
post on June 23 to request a meeting with the Political
Section to discuss human rights issues related to Equatorial
Guinea. We have met with Lopez de Letona in past years, also
to discuss Equatorial Guinea. She and her organization
appear credible and focused on human rights (vice political)
issues. Lopez de Letona's last communication with us was an
inquiry in early 2005 as to whether the U.S. would present a
UNCHR resolution on Equatorial Guinea at the CHR in Geneva.


3. (C) We are aware of the sensitivity of Equatorial Guinea
issue and therefore request Department guidance before
agreeing to meet with Lopez de Letona. If a meeting is
deemed appropriate, please provide current guidance regarding
USG views on the human rights situation in Equatorial Guinea
and on her inquiry regarding USG support for a UNCHR
resolution on Equatorial Guinea.

MANZANARES