OPPOSING IRAN PRESIDENCY AT UNDP: LAO RESPONSE

C O N F I D E N T I A L VIENTIANE 000012 FOR IO/EDA CHARLES CHANG AND NEA/IR VICTORIA TAYLOR E.O. 12958: DECL: 01/08/2019 TAGS: EAID IR LA PREF UN SUBJECT: OPPOSING IRAN PRESIDENCY AT UNDP: LAO RESPONSE REF: STATE 01500 Classified By: Ambassador Ravic R. Huso for reasons 1.4 (b) and (d) ¶1. (C) DCM delivered reftel points to MFA International Organizations Director General Saleumxay Kommasith (protect), who was very familiar with the issue. DG Saleumxai advised that Laos supported the South Korean candidacy throughout the Asia Group deliberations. When a consensus choice could not be achieved, Asia Group Chair Bangladesh asked the seven Asian countries on the Board to submit opinions in letters to the Chair; Laos wrote a letter supporting South Korea. Bangladesh then informed the Group that Iran would be the nominee. ¶2. (C) In response to a request for support in postponing the vote, DG Saleumxai said Laos would not break "harmony" with the Asia Group. He noted, however, that if other Asian countries and other groups agree to postpone, Laos will not oppose. ¶3. (C) Comment: Post judgement is that Laos is not pleased with Iran's nomination, but will certainly not lead any opposition. In a secret ballot, Laos could well reject Iran. Huso