NO IMMEDIATE ANSWER FROM GOR MFA ON BELARUS AND

C O N F I D E N T I A L KIGALI 001111 SIPDIS SENSITIVE SIPDIS DEPARTMENT FOR AF/C AND USUN E.O. 12958: DECL: 11/17/2016 TAGS: PHUM PREL UNGA IS BO RW SUBJECT: NO IMMEDIATE ANSWER FROM GOR MFA ON BELARUS AND ISRAEL DEMARCHES REF: A. 187018 ¶B. 188244 Classified By: Poloff GLearned. Reason 1.4 (d) ¶1. (C) Ministry of Foreign Affaris Americas Desk Officer Augustin Rutikara did not have an immediate response to talking points (reftels). When pressed on how the USG can ensure its positions are thoroughly communicated to the Rwandan UN delegation, Rutikara said direct lobbying by USUN officials in New York would be an effective way to educate the GOR delegation on all aspects of the USG positiQ. He stated that while the major issues are decided in Kigali, for many lower profile votes, Ministry officials look to the Rwandan delegation in New York for input and will defer to them. Rutikara said that Rwanda would generally vote with the Africa Group, however, there are issues-- such as human rights-- that the Rwandans, due to their unique history, are willing to show independence. ARIETTI