UNGA: MFA MIFFED OVER USG APPROACH TO OUTCOME

UNCLAS QUITO 002115 SIPDIS SENSITIVE E.O. 12958: N/A TAGS: PREL EC UNGA SUBJECT: UNGA: MFA MIFFED OVER USG APPROACH TO OUTCOME DOCUMENT REF: STATE 163244 ¶1. (SBU) PolOff delivered RefTel points on September 12 to MFA Director for Multilateral Affairs, Miguel Mendez, communicating USG openness to international opinions on the UN High Level Event Outcome Document, while encouraging GOE officials to be flexible during negotiations. Mendez said that the GOE is committed to working with the international community to develop a viable Outcome Document, but argued that the USG should demonstrate a greater willingness to hear and consider views of Latin American and other developing nations. Mendez also expressed frustration over what the GOE considers the USG tendency to make last-minute changes that force "top-down decision-making." PolOff emphasized that the USG is negotiation in good faith, and is committed to finding strong, appropriate language to ensure successful UN reform. The GOE hopes to make the UN a more equitable, transparent organization. ¶2. (SBU) Comment: We are skeptical that the GOE will be an ally in the Outcome Document negotiations. End Comment. JEWELL