CFE: JCG DRAFT CONTRIBUTION TO OSCE MINISTERIAL

UNCLAS STATE 109963 SENSITIVE SIPDIS E.O. 12958: N/A TAGS: KCFE PARM PREL OSCE SUBJECT: CFE: JCG DRAFT CONTRIBUTION TO OSCE MINISTERIAL DECLARATION REF: A. PHELAN-ELLIS EMAIL 10/23/09 (NOTAL) ¶B. JCG.DEL/2/09 ¶1. (SBU) Washington appreciates Mission's attempt to delay distribution to the Joint Consultative Group (JCG) by Denmark (current Chair of the JCG) of a proposed draft JCG contribution on CFE for the OSCE Ministerial declaration. Denmark, together with Spain and France, drafted "common denominator" language with the intent of seeking consensus; however, in avoiding any mention of the Russian "suspension," the proposed language is inadequate and does not address the current realities of the CFE Treaty impasse. Washington understands that Denmark intends to seek preliminary comments at the October 27 JCG meeting. ¶2. (SBU) As appropriate, Mission should share with Allies our strong concern that initiating discussion within the JCG is premature and steps out in front of capitals and upcoming HLTF discussion (November 5). For the JCG itself, Mission should refrain from a discussion of language specifics, but lay down a clear marker that any language would need to accurately portray the current situation with CFE. Mission should also suggest, based on prior practice, that it seems prudent to first turn to the draft letter from the JCG Chair to the Ministerial Council and defer work on language for the Ministerial declaration. CLINTON