MESSAGE FROM SECRETARY RICE TO PRESIDENT KHAMA

UNCLAS STATE 132215 E.O. 12958: N/A TAGS: OPDC PREL ZI BC SUBJECT: MESSAGE FROM SECRETARY RICE TO PRESIDENT KHAMA RECOGNIZING BOTSWANA'S LEADERSHIP ON ZIMBABWE ¶1. Please deliver the following message from Secretary Rice to President Ian Khama as soon as possible. The Department does not plan to release the text of the message, but has no objections if the Government of Botswana wishes to do so. There will be no signed original. ¶2. BEGIN TEXT: Dear Mr. President: Thank you for your leadership in working to resolve the political and humanitarian crisis in Zimbabwe. Even though the situation in Zimbabwe continues to deteriorate, Botswana's steadfast support for the rights of the Zimbabwean people and its recent contribution of 3 million pula for humanitarian relief demonstrate the depth of your commitment. The United States stands with Botswana and other partners in support of the Zimbabwean people during this critical time. I applaud your continued efforts in support of democracy and human rights in Zimbabwe. Sincerely, Condoleezza Rice END TEXT. RICE