LATVIAN VIEWS ON GAERC

C O N F I D E N T I A L RIGA 000738 SIPDIS SIPDIS E.O. 12958: DECL: 09/13/2011 TAGS: PREL EU LG SUBJECT: LATVIAN VIEWS ON GAERC REF: A) STATE 151189 B) STATE 150777 C) STATE 150032 Classified By: Ambassador Catherine Todd Bailey. Reason: 1.4 (d) ¶1. (C) Pol/econ chief delivered points in refs a and b to Veronika Erte, MFA A/S-level official responsible EU affairs September 13. Erte noted that the Latvian cabinet had approved Latvia's GAERC positions at a cabinet meeting on September 12, but nevertheless welcomed hearing USG views. There was wide agreement between US views and GOL positions. ¶2. (C) Western Balkans: Our positions largely accord. Erte said that Latvia understood that there was a specific discussion of Montenegro planned at the GAERC and that FM Pabriks would note the need for a stable government to be formed following elections to allow for Montengero to pursue its European perspective. Erte expressed concern over some of the radical, nationalist rhetoric in the BiH election campaigns and was pleased to learn of our efforts to press RS PM Dodik and others on this point. ¶3. (C) Darfur/DROC: Latvia is satisfied with the draft council conclusions on both points and did not expect to be actively engaged in debate on these issues. Erte expressed interest in the suggestion of an expert's level meeting to develop requirements for UNMIS, saying that was an important next step. ¶4. (C) MEPP: Latvia welcomes the formation of the unity Palestinian government and hopes that both sides will return to negotiating a long-term solution under the roadmap based on a two-state solution. All parties need to refrain from unilateral actions and cooperate with the quartet. While Latvia does not fund the Temporary International Mechanism for the PA, it supports it and believes consideration should be given to extending it. ¶5. (C) Lebanon: Latvia welcomes the decision by Israel to lift the blockade and supports full implementation of UNSCR ¶1701. Erte noted in particular, the need for Syria to stop any involvement with arms shipments to Hizballah, while also stressing the need for engagement with Syria. Pol/econ chief pushed back on the last point, noting that Syria must be clearly shown that its actions in Lebanon have been unacceptable and the international community is serious about seeing them stop. (Note: pol/econ chief is scheduled to deliver ref c demarche on Syria to MFA political director on September 14. End note.) ¶6. (C) Iran: Latvia continues to be a strong supporter of the P5 1 approach on Iran, which has "neglected its obligations" under UNSCR 1696. The threat from Iran must not be ignored and it must negotiate in good faith or the UNSC should consider further action. Erte agreed that mixed messages from some in the EU following the Gymnich were not helpful. ¶7. (C) Iraq: Latvia strongly supports participation by EU and Commission in the Iraq Compact. International engagement is essential to improving conditions there. Erte did not know who would represent the GOL at the September 18 briefing in NY. Antweiler