ID:188592
Date:2009-01-23 15:48:00
Origin:09MADRID78
Source:Embassy Madrid
Classification:CONFIDENTIAL

Dunno:09STATE4297 09STATE5430
Destination:VZCZCXRO3769
PP RUEHAG RUEHROV RUEHSR
DE RUEHMD #0078 0231548
ZNY CCCCC ZZH
P 231548Z JAN 09
FM AMEMBASSY MADRID
TO RUEHC/SECSTATE WASHDC PRIORITY 0104

INFO RUCNMEM/EU MEMBER STATES COLLECTIVE
RUEHLA/AMCONSUL BARCELONA 3756
RUEHBS/USEU BRUSSELS

C O N F I D E N T I A L MADRID 000078 

SIPDIS 

E.O. 12958: DECL: 01/23/2019 
TAGS: PGOV, PREL, EU, SP 
SUBJECT: SPAIN'S PREVIEW OF THE JANUARY GAERC 


REF: A. STATE 4297 
B. STATE 5430 

Classified By: ADCM William H. Duncan for reasons 1.4 (b) and (d). 

1. (C) Poloff delivered reftel demarche to Spanish MFA Deputy 
Political Director Ricardo Lopez Aranda January 23.  Lopez 
confirmed that the agenda changed in light of the Gaza 
conflict, with Russia/Ukraine and Guantanamo being the only 

other two topics which will receive substantive attention. 
Zimbabwe, although it remains on the agenda, will not be 
discussed but rather conclusions adopted on the EU common 
position. 

2. (C) Gaza: Lopez said that the Gaza conflict discussion 
will focus on further development of the EU border assistance 
mission in Rafah, humanitarian aid and prevention of illicit 
weapons trafficking into Gaza.  Lopez stated that Spain is 

concerned for the "security of Israel, but for the rights of 
Palestinians as well."  He highlighted that the GOS has 
committed a contribution of 5 million euros to the United 
Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the 
Near East (UNRWA) in addition to the 1.5 million euros given 
early in the conflict for purchase of medical and sanitary 
supplies for the Gaza hospital. 

3. (C) Russia/Ukraine: With respect to the Russia/Ukrainian 

gas crisis, Lopez stated that the discussion within the EU 
must be two-fold.  First, he said that the EU must develop 
its political position with respect to an energy security 
strategy.  The discussion must also include, however, 
strategies for relations with Russia and Ukraine 
individually.  Lopez said that it is imperative that the EU 
act with "one voice," and encourage all parties to act 
responsibly. 


4. (C) Guantanamo: Lopez said that the FMs will engage in a 
preliminary, informal discussion regarding President Obama's 
plan to close Guantanamo and how the EU can assist.  Comment: 
Although Lopez did not comment as to Spain's willingness to 
accept detainees, Spanish FM Moratinos has indicated that 
Spain is willing to cooperate in the closure, stating, "If we 
can do something, we will do it." 
CHACON