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