RENTAL ARREARS FOR THE REPUBLIC OF AZERBAIJAN

UNCLAS STATE 083919 SIPDIS E.O. 12958: N/A TAGS: OFDP PREL SUBJECT: RENTAL ARREARS FOR THE REPUBLIC OF AZERBAIJAN MISSION TO THE UNITED NATIONS REF: A. USUN7674 ¶B. USUN745 ¶1. This is an action message. Please see paras 3 and 4. ¶2. Department has learned from USUN that the Permanent Mission of the Republic of Azerbaijan to the United Nations owes $44,903.78 to Vornado Realty Trust in New York City. The debt is for rent and associated charges for office space leased at 866 UN Plaza. We understand that the Azerbaijan Mission is 60 days behind in its rental payments. ¶3. Embassy is requested to make a demarche to the Government in Baku to urge that funds are sent promptly to the Mission in New York to settle its outstanding arrears. ¶4. Talking points follow: -- The United States Government urges the Government of the Republic of Azerbaijan to settle its overdue arrears of $44,903.78 with Vornado Realty Trust for its UN Mission in New York. -- The Government of the Republic of Azerbaijan bears the full responsibility for providing sufficient funds to maintain all facets of its diplomatic presence at the United Nations in New York. -- We urge the Government of the Republic of Azerbaijan to give this matter serious attention and take the necessary steps to settle this debt and continue to routinely pay monthly rent at its UN Mission's Offices as it has agreed to in its lease. CLINTON