NEW ZEALAND WILL GIVE CAREFUL CONSIDERATION TO U.S.

UNCLAS WELLINGTON 000734

SIPDIS

SIPDIS

STATE FOR EAP/ANP - DRICCI

E.O. 12958: N/A
TAGS: UNGA NZ
SUBJECT: NEW ZEALAND WILL GIVE CAREFUL CONSIDERATION TO U.S.
CANDIDATE FOR INTERNATIONAL LAW COMMISSION

REF: State 137429


1. Embassy delivered reftel diplomatic note and talking points
regarding Michael Matheson's re-election to the International Law
Commission to New Zealand's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade
(MFAT) on 23 August. Embassy is in receipt of a response note from
MFAT. The text of the note follows:


2. Begin text:

"The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade presents its compliments
to the Embassy of the United States of America and has the honour to
refer to the Embassy's Note No. 53-06 of 23 August 2006 informing
the Ministry that the United States has nominated Michael Matheson
for re-election to the International Law Commission at the elections
to be held during the 61st United Nations General Assembly.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade wishes to assure the
Embassy of the United States of America that New Zealand will give
careful consideration to this candidature.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade takes this opportunity to
renew to the Embassy of the United States of America the assurances
of its highest consideration."

McCormick