TFGG01: BURKINA FASO SUPPORTS U.S. POSITION ON

C O N F I D E N T I A L OUAGADOUGOU 000791 SIPDIS E.O. 12958: DECL: 08/26/2018 TAGS: PREL MARR RS GG UV SUBJECT: TFGG01: BURKINA FASO SUPPORTS U.S. POSITION ON RUSSIA-GEORGIA CONFLICT REF: SECSTATE 89769 Classified by ADCM Joann Lockard for reasons 1.4 (b) and (d). ¶1. 1. (C) On August 26, PolOff delivered reftel demarche to Saidou Zongo, Acting Director of International Organizations at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA). Zongo noted that he was aware of the recent remarks made by President Bush concerning Russia's actions and agreed fully with the U.S. position that Russia's actions are inexcusable in today's world. Zongo commented that if the actions taken by Russia against Georgia's sovereignty were not strongly discouraged by the international community, their behavior could spread. "Today it is Georgia, but tomorrow it could be us," Zongo remarked. ¶2. (C) Zongo could not confirm that the GOBF would publicly or diplomatically pressure Russia to adhere to international community pleas for a cease-fire, but noted that, in cases of conflict, Burkina Faso always favors peace. (Note: Burkina Faso does not have diplomatic presence in Russia. End note.) Zongo appreciated the points provided on the U.S. position and promised to pass the information to his superiors. JACKSON