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