POLISH SUPPORT FOR DEMOCRACY MOVEMENT IN BURMA

UNCLAS WARSAW 002131 SIPDIS SENSITIVE SIPDIS PLEASE PASS TO EAP/MLS FOR AARON COPE E.O. 12958: N/A TAGS: BM PGOV PHUM RREL PL SUBJECT: POLISH SUPPORT FOR DEMOCRACY MOVEMENT IN BURMA REF: SECSTATE 142626 ¶1. (SBU) On October 18, PolOff delivered reftel demarche to Krzysztof Ciebien, Minister Counselor for MFA,s Asia department. Ciebien stated that in addition to Poland,s statement expressing concerns over the developments in Burma, the Government of Poland has raised the issue with various representatives from the region. He noted, for example, that the MFA raised the issue with the Burmese Ambassador posted in Berlin, who is accredited to Poland, when he was recently in Warsaw, and with the new Chinese Ambassador during his courtesy calls. ¶2. (SBU) In the past month, Poland has provided 100,000 USD to assist Burmese refugees in Thailand via the Red Cross. Poland does not have any other bilateral aid programs in Burma. Ciebien reiterated Poland,s role in promoting democracy through the EU and noted that he just returned from Brussels, where EU members approved the revised sanctions on the regime, in areas such as timber and gems. ¶3. (SBU) Cieben was eager to hear more about U.S. initiatives and plans in Burma, specifically on strategies of engagement with various groups and plans for democratic transition. He also requested any additional information on the progress/success of U.S. assistance, such as the Global Human Rights Defenders Fund. Post will work with EAP/MLS to respond to this request. ASHE