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Viewing cable 08STATE132961, FAREWELL MESSAGE FROM A/S WELCH TO TUNISIAN

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Reference ID Created Released Classification Origin
08STATE132961 2008-12-19 17:16 2011-08-24 16:30 UNCLASSIFIED Secretary of State 
VZCZCXYZ0008
OO RUEHWEB

DE RUEHC #2961 3541723
ZNR UUUUU ZZH
O 191716Z DEC 08
FM SECSTATE WASHDC
TO AMEMBASSY TUNIS IMMEDIATE 1559
 
UNCLAS STATE 132961 
 
SIPDIS 
 
E.O. 12958: N/A 
TAGS: PREL TS
SUBJECT: FAREWELL MESSAGE FROM A/S WELCH TO TUNISIAN 
PRESIDENT BEN ALI 
 
1.  Please deliver the following message from NEA Assistant 
Secretary David Welch to Tunisian President Zine El Abidine 
Ben Ali at an appropriate time.  The State Department does 
not plan to release the text of the message but has no 
objection if the Government of Tunisia wishes to do so. There 
will be no signed original. 
 
2.  Begin text: 
 
Dear Mr. President: 
 
After a long and rewarding career with the Foreign Service, I 
will retire from the U.S. government on December 19.  It has 
been a pleasure to work with you, sir. 
 
I was honored by your hospitality during Secretary Rice,s 
visit to Tunis this year.  Tunisia is one of the oldest 
friends of the United States, and has proven its graciousness 
and commitment to this mutual friendship between our two 
governments and peoples.  I have greatly appreciated your 
views and support on regional issues, including Tunisia,s 
participation in the Middle East Peace Process and support 
for a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. 
 
 
It is my sincere hope that you and the people of Tunisia 
experience health, happiness, and prosperity, now and in the 
years ahead. 
 
With respect, 
Sincerely, 
David Welch 
 
 
END TEXT. 
RICE