Cablegate: Demarche On Cuba Embargo Resolution Delivered

VZCZCXRO9938
RR RUEHHM
DE RUEHHI #1839 2990827
ZNR UUUUU ZZH
R 260827Z OCT 07
FM AMEMBASSY HANOI
TO RUEHC/SECSTATE WASHDC 6582
INFO RUEHHM/AMCONSUL HO CHI MINH 3854

UNCLAS HANOI 001839

SIPDIS

SENSITIVE
SIPDIS

DEPT FOR IO/UNP - John Mariz

E.O. 12958: N/A
TAGS: UNGA ETRD PHUM UN CU VM
SUBJECT: DEMARCHE ON CUBA EMBARGO RESOLUTION DELIVERED

REF: STATE 148506

(SBU) On October 26, Poloff met with MFA International Organizations
Department Desk Officer Phan Ho The Nam to deliver reftel points
urging the GVN to vote against the UNGA resolution condemning the
U.S. economic embargo against Cuba. Nam responded by stating the
GVN's universal position that trade embargos and similar sanctions
are not appropriate in light of the harm they cause to general
populations. The well-being of any people is "the top priority."
He added that the GVN also cares about the U.S. concerns and will
give the U.S. position its utmost consideration. He noted, however,
that in past years, the resolution has passed with an overwhelming
majority and that it would be difficult to act against this majority
view. He suggested that the United States attempt to find another
way to engage with the Cuban government for the sake of the Cuban
people.

MICHALAK

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