MEDIA REACTION - IRA DECLARATION ON END TO

UNCLAS SANTIAGO 001632 SIPDIS STATE FOR R/MR, I/PP, WHA/BSC, WHA/PDA, INR/IAA, PM, INL STATE FOR INR/R/MR, NEA/PDA AMEMBASSY FOR PAO, IO E.O. 12958: N/A TAGS: KMDR KPAO OPRC PTER CI UK SUBJECT: MEDIA REACTION - IRA DECLARATION ON END TO ARMED STRUGGLE ¶1. On August 1, business and financial "Diario Financiero" (circ. 20,000) carried a commentary by international analyst Libardo Buitrago entitled, "IRA: A Timely Announcement." Quote: "The Irish Republican Army (IRA)...handled the timing very well, because in the current high season for terrorism a political decision of this kind opens doors that they were unable to open with weapons. Efforts must now be made to earn and build trust, a fundamental pillar for the future of a united Ireland. The repercussions of the IRA's decision will go beyond the direct impact it will have on millions of people. For the British government...it means that it can now use its security forces to fully fight Islamic terrorism." ¶2. On August 1, business and financial "Diario Financiero" (circ. 20,000) ran an editorial entitled, "End to 30 Years of Violence." Quote: "The IRA's decision is a concrete expression of reason and common sense that is even more appreciated given the fear and terror sowed by Al Qaeda in the United States and several European capital cities.... As in any conflict, while the goals of all those involved might be understandable, the only weapon that can be used to reach those goals is a peaceful, political struggle within the framework of democracy." KELLY