SUPPORT FOR USG PROPOSAL RE: HUMAN RIGHTS COUNCIL

UNCLAS MASERU 000394

SIPDIS

STATE FOR IO AND AF

E.O. 12958: N/A
TAGS: PHUM PREL LT UNGA UNHCR
SUBJECT: SUPPORT FOR USG PROPOSAL RE: HUMAN RIGHTS COUNCIL

REF: STATE 140192


1. (U) Charge met August 2 with Minister of Foreign Affairs
Monyane Moleleki to deliver talking points in ref regarding the
USG position on creation of a Human Rights Council. Charge
noted, in particular, the flexibility of the USG on issues of
the Council's size, mandate, and membership criteria.


2. (U) Moleleki responded that Lesotho embraces democratic
principles, which necessarily include respect for human rights.
The GOL completely supports the USG views regarding the Council.
If anything, the Minister commented, the U.S. is being a bit
too flexible regarding the group's size and membership criteria.
Thirty-five members might make the body unwieldy. Also, perhaps
only countries which genuinely support and respect human rights
would be appropriate for the Council. Moleleki added that
Lesotho had never held any of the misconceptions about the USG
position noted in ref .

ALBRECHT