URGING ASEAN TO PRESS BURMA: PHILIPPINES RESPONSE

C O N F I D E N T I A L MANILA 002230 SIPDIS E.O. 12958: DECL: 10/22/2019 TAGS: PREL BM RP SUBJECT: URGING ASEAN TO PRESS BURMA: PHILIPPINES RESPONSE REF: A. STATE 108210 ¶B. MANILA 02133 Classified By: Ambassador Kristie A. Kenney, Reasons 1.4 (b) and (d) ¶1. (SBU) External Chief delivered Ref A talking points on urging ASEAN to press Burma to take constructive steps, particularly at the ASEAN Summit, to Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) East Asia Assistant Secretary Ronald Allarey and U.S. Affairs Office Director Deena Joy Amatong. Amatong replied that, within ASEAN, the Philippines considers itself one of the strongest supporters of democratic change in Burma. She said that while she was not aware that Burma was on the Summit's formal agenda, she was certain that her delegation would discuss the issue during the event. Finally, Amatong assured External Chief that she does not foresee a change in the Philippines' strong position in favor of improved democracy in Burma. ¶2. (C) As reported in Ref B, Philippine Foreign Secretary Romulo told the Ambassador on October 7, 2009 that he welcomed the outcome of the Burma policy review, stating that he believed it is appropriate for the U.S. to try a new approach. He said that the Philippines would remain solidly with the U.S. on Burma and was ready to help in any way possible. KENNEY