PRESS SAY MOORE "MOST SERIOUS CANDIDATE" FOR U.S. AMBASSADOR

UNCLAS PODGORICA 000028 SIPDIS SENSITIVE SIPDIS E.O. 12958: N/A TAGS: APER PREL MW SUBJECT: PRESS SAY MOORE "MOST SERIOUS CANDIDATE" FOR U.S. AMBASSADOR TO MONTENEGRO ¶1. (U) The Podgorica daily "Vijesti" on February 7 cites "diplomatic" (nfi) sources which speculate that Roderick Moore (currently DCM in Embassy Belgrade) is the leading candidate to become the first American ambassador to Montenegro. The front page story, later picked up by radio, says the U.S. is close to a decision on Moore who is "well known" in this area. The report provides a summary of Moore's CV, focusing on his considerable Balkan experience. Vijesti particularly notes his command of all "south Slavic" languages, as well as Russian, Bulgarian, Czech, French, Spanish, and Haitian Creole. The paper also mentions that Moore must take part in a public hearing in the Senate before being confirmed. ¶2. (SBU) Vijesti is considered the most influential print news source in Montenegro. The tone of the article was positive. ¶3. (U) Post does not intend to comment on the stories, but if asked, we will clarify that the President has not announced his choice and that we await his decision. BARNES