GUTIERREZ: BILATERAL RELATIONS REMAIN STRONG

UNCLAS QUITO 000089 SIPDIS E.O. 12958: N/A TAGS: PREL PGOV ECON ETRD EFIN EC SUBJECT: GUTIERREZ: BILATERAL RELATIONS REMAIN STRONG ¶1. Concerned that sensationalistic media play alleging the Embassy was reconsidering its support of President Lucio Gutierrez was damaging heretofore excellent bilateral relations, the Ambassador January 13 telephoned the Ecuadorian leader to clear the air. She opened by discussing Gutierrez's upcoming travel to New York and President George H.W. Bush's January 15 visit to Ecuador. At both events, Gutierrez would likely be grilled over perceptions he was acting dictatorially. His interlocutors undoubtedly would reference the Embassy spokesman's recent remarks that we were troubled by Congress's December move to remake Ecuador's high courts. The Ambassador cautioned Gutierrez not to succumb to a point-by-point rebuttal, but instead offer his future plans to fortify Ecuadorian democracy, promote freer trade, and address growing social needs. ¶2. Gutierrez thanked the Ambassador for the Embassy's continued support, her timely advice, and the frank and open communications the two enjoyed. He knew the media had taken liberties with Embassy statements, and above all wanted to avoid public battles. Ecuador valued its friendship with the United States, the president asserted; he hoped it would grow stronger during the remainder of his tenure. In New York, Gutierrez intended to justify his administration's court-cleaning, calling it constitutional and imperative to ensure judicial security. He would also promote an Ecuador "open for business." ¶3. COMMENT: Not one hour after the call ended, media contacted us to confirm the conversation, the Presidency having leaked the news. Gutierrez clearly continues to consider Embassy support vital for the survival of his administration, a belief we hope to employ to further U.S. interests. END COMMENT. KENNEY