LATVIA BRIEFED ON CHANGE IN IRAQ COALITION

S E C R E T RIGA 000542 SIPDIS E.O. 12958: DECL: 09/09/2018 TAGS: MOPS MARR PREL IZ LG SUBJECT: LATVIA BRIEFED ON CHANGE IN IRAQ COALITION REF: A) STATE 96122 B) POST/STATE OPS TELCON Classified By: Ambassador Charles W. Larson, Jr. Reason: 1.4 (D) ¶1. (S) Ambassador Larson briefed President Zatlers on ref A points September 9. The Ambassador stressed our great appreciation for Latvia's contribution in Iraq over the years but noted positive developments in security had allowed this change. The President was pleased to be informed of this upcoming change in coalition posture in Iraq. On the basis of ref B, the Ambassador informed the President that it was up to the Latvians when to announce the change, but suggested they may wish to consult with the Iraqis. ¶2. (S) In response to ref A query, we believe that a letter from POTUS to Zatlers, as well as a similar letter from the Iraqi government, are appropriate ways to acknowledge Latvian contributions to Iraqi freedom. LARSON