DEMARCHE: DECLARATION IN OAS ON U.S. BORDER SECURITY

UNCLAS PORT OF SPAIN 001230 SIPDIS SIPDIS DEPT FOR WHA/CAR, WHA/OAS (NEIGHBOUR, ROJAS) E.O. 12958: N/A TAGS: OAS PHUM PREL PTER SMIG MX XM TD SUBJECT: DEMARCHE: DECLARATION IN OAS ON U.S. BORDER SECURITY REF: STATE 176810 ¶1. On October 23, we verbally presented the talking points contained Reftel to MFA Americas Division Director Margaret Rousseau who also handles the OAS portfolio. ¶2. In response to a question from Rousseau, we assured her that the US delegation has worked long and hard in an effort to craft a consensus declaration and avoid the issue coming to a vote. Referring to a potentially negative reaction from some quarters to a divisive declaration, particularly ahead of the US congressional elections, Rousseau wondered if the OAS permanent council might be able to postpone discussion of Mexico's proposed declaration until after the congressional elections. ¶3. After thanking us for presenting the US perspective on the issue, Rousseau said she would immediately convey our message to her superiors since it was her understanding that a regional coordinators meeting has been scheduled for October 24 in Washington, at which time any differences regarding the proposed declaration could still be resolved prior to the October 25 session of the permanent council. AUSTIN