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