BOLIVIAN FM'S CONGRATULATORY LETTER TO SEC. CLINTON

UNCLAS LA PAZ 000155 SIPDIS E.O. 12958: N/A TAGS: PGOV PREL BL SUBJECT: BOLIVIAN FM'S CONGRATULATORY LETTER TO SEC. CLINTON ¶1. On January 27, 2009, the Bolivian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Worship transmitted a letter (Note GM No. 037/09) from Foreign Minister David Choquehuanca to Secretary of State Clinton. The official Embassy translation follows: - - - - - - BEGIN TEXT - - - - - - Republic of Bolivia Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Worship La Paz, January 27, 2009 GM-038/09-1250 Madame Secretary of State: I am pleased to write you to express my most sincere congratulations on your appointment as Secretary of State in a new and historic stage in the democratic life of the United States. I hope that during your tenure a fruitful process can be initiated, one that will lead to improved and extended relations between your country and Bolivia, within the framework of a broad agenda that most probably will be developed by the United States in Latin America. In this context, I believe that we have to prioritize fundamental issues such as trade, the fight against poverty and narcotics trafficking, the defense of human rights, immigration, and the sustainable development of our peoples, which are both crucial and shared responsibilities. I am convinced that the significant contribution of your experience, sensitivity, and ability will allow realization of the beliefs expressed by President Barack Obama regarding foreign relations, in order to reach a relationship based on mutual respect, an indispensable element to establish a new, more just and more equitable international order. As I reiterate my congratulations and wish you success in your service, I avail myself of this opportunity to express to you the assurances of my highest consideration. David Choquehuanca C. Minister of Foreign Affairs and Worship To the Honorable, Hillary Rodham Clinton, Secretary of State, Washington, D.C., United States of America - - - - - END TEXT - - - - - LAMBERT