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