KUWAITI CANDIDATE FOR WHO DIRECTOR-GENERAL

UNCLAS KUWAIT 004314

SIPDIS

SENSITIVE
SIPDIS

FOR NEA/ARP AND IO/T

E.O. 12958: N/A
TAGS: PREL AORC UN WHO KU
SUBJECT: KUWAITI CANDIDATE FOR WHO DIRECTOR-GENERAL

REF: KUWAIT 2838


1. (SBU) On November 1 DCM attended a meeting called by
Kuwaiti Foreign Minister Dr. Muhammad Al-Sabah. Purpose of
the meeting was to present to heads of diplomatic missions
Kuwait's case for selection of Dr. Kazem Behbehani as the
next WHO Director. The Foreign Minister made a presentation
drawing on the following points in support of Dr. Behhebani's
candidacy:

--Behbehani's professional qualifications and many years of
experience within the WHO;

--the principle of regional rotation (Middle
East/Mediterranean region has never had leadership of the
WHO);

--the benefits of giving smaller countries the opportunity to
occupy UN leadership positions;

--the cultural understanding to be gained by having a Muslim
WHO Director-General;

--Kuwait's exceptional record of positive engagement with the
UN and international agencies;

--Kuwait's record of assistance to developing countries,
including, the Foreign Minister noted, a pledge of $300
million just approved by the cabinet to combat hunger in
Africa.


2. (SBU) Noting that some of the countries represented at the
meeting had put forward their own candidates, Dr. Muhammad
said Kuwait would regard having Dr. Behbehani make the
short-list of 5 as a victory. He appealed for the support to
achieve that goal. He also noted that the Arab League was
supporting Dr. Behbehani's candidacy; another Arab candidate
had withdrawn in favor of the Kuwaiti candidate.


3. (SBU) Comment: The GOK has attached special significance
to Dr. Behbehani's candidacy and has lobbied repeatedly at
all levels to promote Kuwait's case. USG backing for Dr.
Behbehani would generate great appreciation from Kuwait and
would signal our own appreciation for the unique support
Kuwait provides us in this region.
LeBaron