NETHERLANDS/UZBEKISTAN: DUTCH CONSIDERING OPTIONS

C O N F I D E N T I A L THE HAGUE 001987 SIPDIS E.O. 12958: DECL: 07/15/2015 TAGS: PGOV PHUM PREF PREL NL KG UZ SUBJECT: NETHERLANDS/UZBEKISTAN: DUTCH CONSIDERING OPTIONS FOR RESETTLING REFUGEES REF: SECSTATE 131485 Classified By: Acting Political Counselor Nathaniel Dean for reasons 1. 4 (b and d) ¶1. (C) Poloff discussed reftel points with Tanja Roling (MFA, Uzbekistan/Kyrgystan regional desk officer) on an urgent basis July 15. She appreciated the advance information and promptly shared it within the MFA. The Dutch are already processing earlier requests from the UNHCR to resettle some refugees, she said. In principle, she felt the USG's proposals "were positive" and especially welcomed the USG willingness to take the lead on resettlement. She understood the timing and logistical problems associated with interviewing refugees before they could go the United States. ¶2. (C) The Dutch are willing to play their part, she said, while pointing out that the "current Dutch political situation would make it difficult to accept more refugees." She undertook to stay in touch with Poloff next week as the situation developed in Geneva and on the ground. BLAKEMAN