US embassy cable - 05QUITO2795

C O N F I D E N T I A L QUITO 002795 
 
SIPDIS 
 
E.O. 12958: DECL: TEN YEARS 
TAGS: PGOV, PREL, BO, EC, Regional 
SUBJECT: ENGAGING ECUADOR ON BOLIVIA 
 
REF: STATE 221306 
 
Classified By: PolChief Erik Hall for reason 1.4 (b&d) 
 
1.  (C) Summary:  The DCM expressed USG concerns about the 
potential effects of upcoming Bolivian elections with Vice 
Foreign Minister Diego Ribadeneira, who offered his personal 
views on the subject.  End Summary. 
 
2.  (U) After expressing USG concerns about the potential for 
destabilizing effects of upcoming elections, per RefTel, the 
DCM solicited GOE views on how the international community 
might best help Bolivia remain committed to democratic 
governance, economic growth, combating narco-trafficking and 
rule of law. 
 
3.  (C) Ribadeneira said he would seek the endorsement of FM 
Carrion and President Palacio before making a more formal GOE 
response, but offered his own thoughts on the subject in the 
interim: 
 
-- He applauded USG efforts to consult with other nations in 
the region on this important challenge of preserving and 
helping support Bolivia's democracy. 
 
-- The GOE supports a democratic solution for Bolivia, within 
the parameters of the Bolivian constitution. 
 
-- He suggested the USG collaborate with regional power 
Brazil on this issue.  Lula has already played a positive 
role in Bolivia, advising Evo Morales of the importance of 
respecting democratic boundaries.  Lula's emissary, Marco 
Aurelio Garcia, was recently in La Paz. 
 
-- He implied Ecuador would support any initiative led by 
Brazil. 
 
-- He suggested the USG also consult with the Spanish 
government on this issue. 
JEWELL