GOL TO CONSIDER CONGRATULATING IRAQ; DISCUSSING

UNCLAS VILNIUS 000932 SIPDIS STATE FOR EUR/NB AND EUR/PPD E.O. 12958: N/A TAGS: PGOV PREL IZ LH SUBJECT: GOL TO CONSIDER CONGRATULATING IRAQ; DISCUSSING DIPLOMATIC TIES REF: SECSTATE 158420 We delivered reftel points on the Iraqi constitution to Vaclovas Salkauskas, the new Head of the MFA's Africa and Middle East Division, on September 7, and urged him to recommend that the GOL issue a congratulatory statement to the Iraqi people. Salkauskas said that he is still gathering the information he needs to be able to present such a recommendation to GOL leadership. He said the Secretary's statement and the fact sheet on the constitution will be of great use in his efforts. Salkauskas offered that the successful completion of the October referendum may be an opportune time for the GOL to make a new statement of support for the Iraqi people. He also told us that the GOL is currently in discussion with the Iraqi government to establish diplomatic relations. MULL