LITHUANIA SUPPORTS REPORTING IRAN TO THE UN

C O N F I D E N T I A L VILNIUS 000036 SIPDIS STATE FOR EUR/NB AND NEA/ARPI E.O. 12958: DECL: 01/12/2016 TAGS: PARM PREL KNNP AORC LH SUBJECT: LITHUANIA SUPPORTS REPORTING IRAN TO THE UN SECURITY COUNCIL REF: STATE 6236 Classified By: Pol/Econ Officer Christian Yarnell for Reasons 1.4 (b) and (d) (C) We delivered reftel points regarding Iran to Vaclovas Salkauskas, head of the MFA's Middle East Division, January ¶13. Salkauskas said that Lithuania stands fully behind the EU-3 and USG position to refer Iran to the UN Security Council in response to Iran's recent steps toward uranium enrichment. Salkauskas noted that, during consultations in December, MFA representatives stressed to the Iranian Ambassador (resident in Warsaw) the importance of Iran's full cooperation with the EU-3. Salkauskas also commented that the GOL remains suspicious of Russian and Chinese economic interests in Iran and is concerned that these interests could affect the Security Council's ability to take strong measures against Iran. Lithuania strongly believes that the international community must maintain a common position and send a strong signal to Iran. KELLY