Cablegate: Uk Response: Oecd Enlargement Demarche And

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PP RUEHWEB

DE RUEHLO #1784 1311050
ZNR UUUUU ZZH
P 111050Z MAY 07
FM AMEMBASSY LONDON
TO RUEHC/SECSTATE WASHDC PRIORITY 3380
INFO RUEHSS/OECD POSTS COLLECTIVE PRIORITY

UNCLAS LONDON 001784

SIPDIS

SIPDIS

PARIS FOR OECD

E.O. 12958: N/A
TAGS: ECON OECD UK
SUBJECT: UK RESPONSE: OECD ENLARGEMENT DEMARCHE AND
FINANCING REFORM

REF: STATE 129003

The UK is leaning towards supporting the ministerial text
drafted at the May 10 OECD Council meeting regarding
enlargement and enhanced engagement. UK Foreign and
Commonwealth Office OECD Desk Officer Natalie Golding told us
May 11 that the text recognizes the need for accession
countries to commit to democratic values and an open economy,
but does not mention Russia specifically. The UK supports
consideration of candidate countries on their individual
merits and is not looking for language that implies an
entitlement to OECD membership for any members, including
members of the European Union. The UK is also leaning
towards supporting Australia's suggestion to include
Indonesia in an enhanced engagement program. Regarding
financing reform, the UK has been a leader within the G7 and
EU in promoting the proposal in reftel. They believe new
members should cover their costs and it would not be fair to
ask new members to pay more than current members, so current
members should cover their costs as well.

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