VZCZCXYZ0010
OO RUEHWEB

DE RUEHC #4281 0422348
ZNR UUUUU ZZH
O 112345Z FEB 08
FM SECSTATE WASHDC
TO RUCNDT/USMISSION USUN NEW YORK IMMEDIATE 0572
INFO RUEHLB/AMEMBASSY BEIRUT IMMEDIATE 7807

UNCLAS STATE 014281 
 
SIPDIS 
 
SENSITIVE 
SIPDIS 
 
E.O. 12958: N/A 
TAGS: UNSC PTER PREL SY LE
SUBJECT: SPECIAL TRIBUNAL FOR LEBANON:  GUIDANCE FOR 
MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE 
 
REF: USUN 117 
 
(SBU) This cable is in response to Post's request in reftel 
for instructions on signing side understandings with France, 
Germany, the Netherlands and the UK concerning Special 
Tribunal for Lebanon Management Committee decisions. 
Although Department continues to have reservations regarding 
the sufficiency of the side letter to protect U.S. interests, 
post may agree to the following text: 
 
Begin Text. 
 
The representatives of the governments of France, Germany, 
the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, and the United States of 
America are pleased that Terms of Reference for the 
Management Committee for the Special Tribunal for Lebanon 
have been completed, and look to the Management Committee to 
play an important role in the efforts of the Tribunal to 
operate efficiently, effectively, and accountable.  They 
commit to achieve consensus among themselves on a common 
position for all decisions before the Management Committee 
and to cast their votes accordingly.  They highlight the 
importance of supporting the Secretary-General's efforts for 
the establishment of the Tribunal in a timely manner, as a 
means to put an end to impunity and deter further 
assassinations in Lebanon. 
 
End text. 
RICE