BURUNDI RESPONSE TO WMO QUADRENNIAL CONGRESS

UNCLAS BUJUMBURA 000293 SIPDIS SIPDIS DEPT FOR IO/T - GUINNEVERE ROBERTS E.O. 12958: N/A TAGS: SENV TPHY WM BY SUBJECT: BURUNDI RESPONSE TO WMO QUADRENNIAL CONGRESS DEMARCHE REF: STATE 47359 ¶1. (U) On April 19, POLOFF delivered reftel points concerning USG interests in the upcoming World Meteorological Organization (WMO) Congress to Ambassador Aldolphe Nahayo, the Director for International Organizations in Burundi's Ministry of External Relations and Cooperation (Foreign Affairs). Ambassador Nahayo confirmed that Burundi is sending two delegates from the Ministry for Land Management, the Environment and Tourism, including Minister Odette Kayitesi, to the WMO Congress which begins on May 7 in Geneva. He expressed his appreciation for the opportunity to review the USG key issues and priorities for the WMO Congress. Ambassador Nahayo verbally acknowledged and agreed with each of the major points and further assured POLOFF that additional discussions with ministry members would take place prior to the quadrennial session. ¶2. (U) Ambassador Nahayo stressed the important link between environmental changes and the economic development of Burundi. In particular, Ambassador Nahayo noted the need to improve disaster preparedness in Burundi. Burundi has recently suffered through extended periods of drought followed by an abundance of rain, causing widespread flooding, crop failure and food shortages. He added that Burundi will not hesitate to consult USG representatives in Geneva should additional discussion, clarification or negotiation be warranted. MOLLER