US embassy cable - 05MADRID2721

UNCLAS MADRID 002721 
 
SIPDIS 
 
DEPARTMENT PASS TO EUR/WE 
EB/TRA/OTP FOR STEPHEN MILLER 
 
E.O. 12958: N/A 
TAGS: EWWT, SP, EUN 
SUBJECT: SPAIN: RESPONSE TO AMERICAN BUREAU OF SHIPPING 
DEMARCHE 
 
REF: STATE 124689 
 
Econoff delivered reftel points on July 21 to Juan Luis Munoz 
de Laborde, Ministro Plenipotenciario with the International 
Economics division of the Spanish Ministry of Foreign 
Affairs.  In addition, Econoff presented Munoz with a copy of 
the American Bureau of Shipping's (ABS) proposed resolution, 
which had previously been given to the Spanish government by 
ABS's attorneys.  Munoz said that the competency for this 
issue was with the Ministry of Justice but that the MFA would 
pass the following points to the appropriate authorities in 
the Justice Ministry: 
 
-1. That the USG is interested in this case and would like to 
see an amicable resolution that meets the needs of all 
parties involved. 
 
-2. That the USG hopes that the GOS gives serious 
consideration to ABS's proposal and engages in meaningful 
discussions to find a mutually agreed upon resolution. 
 
-3. That the USG would like to be kept informed about the 
progress of the case. 
 
Post stands ready to further engage the Spanish government on 
this issue should further information be required. 
AGUIRRE