Portugal EUA WikiLeaks Cable Sócrates Autorizou Voos CIA de Repatriamento de presos de Guantánamo caso por caso

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Cable onde se disse que Sócrates autorizou os voos de repatriação de prisioneiros de Guantánamo
O primeiro ministro português deu luz verde à "repatriação de combatentes inimigos" desde a prisão de Guantánamo através da base aérea das Lajes, caso por caso. A decisão nunca se tornou pública

ID:	121418
Date:	2007-09-07 16:09:00
Origin:	07LISBON2307
Source:	Embassy Lisbon
Classification:	SECRET
Dunno:
Destination:	VZCZCXYZ0000 PP RUEHWEB DE RUEHLI #2307/01 2501609 ZNY SSSSS ZZH P 071609Z SEP 07 FM AMEMBASSY LISBON TO RHEHNSC/NSC WASHDC PRIORITY RUEHC/SECSTATE WASHDC PRIORITY 6222 RHEHAAA/WHITE HOUSE WASHDC PRIORITY
S E C R E T LISBON 002307 SIPDIS SIPDIS FOR THE PRESIDENT FROM AMBASSADOR ALFRED HOFFMAN E.O. 12958: DECL: 09/07/2017 TAGS: PREL, PO SUBJECT: SCENESETTER FOR THE PRESIDENT'S SEPTEMBER 17 MEETING WITH PRIME MINISTER SOCRATES Classified By: Ambassador Alfred Hoffman for reasons 1.4 (B) and (D). 1. (SBU) Mr. President: Your meeting with Prime Minister Socrates -- two months into Portugal's EU presidency -- provides an excellent early opportunity to try to shape the Portuguese government's priorities in a direction consistent with U.S. interests, both from a bilateral perspective and in the EU context. Portugal - A Steadfast Ally --------------------------- 2. (C) Portugal, a founding member of NATO, is a steadfast ally that has consistently stood by our side over the years under both center-right and center-left governments. The President and Prime Minister -- from opposing political parties -- each regularly stress that trans-Atlantic relations are a pillar of Portuguese foreign policy and that NATO is the primary guarantor of European security. At our request, Portugal ultimately withdrew its leading candidacy to host the 2008 NATO Summit in favor of Romania. In return, the USG agreed to support Portugal's bid to host the 2010 NATO Summit. 3. (SBU) Portugal has provided virtually free access to Portuguese air and seaports for military support operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, with over three thousand flights a year transiting Lajes Air Base in the Azores. It has also granted permission to use Lajes in support of repatriation of detainees from Guatanamo. Despite severe budgetary constraints, it is currently engaged internationally on numerous fronts with military personnel in Iraq, Afghanistan (where it has lost one soldier), East Timor, Kosovo, and Lebanon, and, until recently, in Bosnia and the Congo. Portugal has been an outstanding partner in the war on terror and collaborates actively with us as a member of the Proliferation Security Initiative, the Container Security Initiative, and the Global Initiative to Combat Nuclear Terrorism. EU presidency priorities ------------------------ 4. (C) While agreement on the shape of a new EU treaty was achieved during the German presidency, detailed negotiation and signature of the document have fallen to the Portuguese presidency, which hopes to secure endorsement of a final text by the heads of government meeting in December. This internal EU task has not derailed Portugal's external policy goals, but it has absorbed scarce resources and high-level attention within the Portuguese government. 5. (U) Socrates and other senior Portuguese officials have noted that the EU's biggest foreign policy concern is along its southern and southeastern borders, which are threatened by radical Islam and poverty. He has proposed strengthening the EU's ties to Washington, Moscow, and Mediterranean countries to help contain radical Islam in that region; this strategy includes lending strong support to Turkish accession to the EU, involving the EU more closely in the Middle East Peace Process, and strengthening the EU's economic and cultural ties to the region through the Barcelona Process. 6. (C) So far during their Presidency, the Portuguese have taken a primarily facilitative approach, seeking broad consensus on most issues. They have dedicated their individual efforts to the few issues they care most about: a strategic partnership with Africa and the Middle East processes noted above. Beyond those issues, the Portuguese governmental structure has engaged in efforts to strengthen EU ties with Brazil, India, China, Russia, and Ukraine through high-profile summits. 7. (C) The EU-Brazil summit in Lisbon the first week of Portugal's presidency was successful in establishing a long-term relationship with a significant partner and energizing the debate in Europe on biofuels. Portuguese interlocutors candidly told us that they did not expect much and that the summit was only the first step toward an EU-Brazil strategic partnership, but that they were delighted with the outcome. We believe this may raise Portuguese ambitions for the other summits. Suggested areas of focus ------------------------ 8. (C) Kosovo: The Portuguese believe the current Troika-led negotiations are a necessary last effort but are not optimistic about the outcome. They believe Kosovar independence is inevitable, but worry about both the Kosovars moving too quickly and the perceived need to have Russian agreement on any solution. The Portuguese are working to find a legal mechanism that permits individual member states to recognize an independent Kosovo absent a UNSCR, and that provides the basis for deployment of an EU rule of law mission. They need to hear from you that leaving Kosovo in limbo is not an option, that giving Russia veto power over foreign policy challenges in the heart of Europe sets a troubling precedent, and that the world needs resolution on this troubling issue this year. 9. (C) Russia: Prime Minister Socrates visited Moscow recently and was criticized in many quarters for his failure to address Russia's aggressive behavior against EU allies Poland and Estonia, human rights issues, or Moscow's penchant for rhetoric and gamesmanship on energy and security. Portugal currently does not depend on Russia for any energy needs, although that dynamic may be changing, given recent collaborative efforts between the national oil company and Gazprom, and Gazprom's collaboration with Algeria's Sonatrach, which provides a majority of Portugal's natural gas needs. Socrates's advisors suggested to us following the trip that we needed to tone down our own rhetoric in order to elicit more constructive engagement from Moscow. One senior advisor even suggested that our plan to place the missile defense system in Poland and the Czech Republic -- the two more problematic EU member states -- had not helped matters when we wanted the EU to come to our defense. 10. (C) Middle East: The Portuguese believe they have little historical baggage in the region and thus can advance progress on key issues. They have stressed many times and at the highest levels that the Road Map is the way forward, but that it needs to be reinvigorated. Foreign Minister Amado has traveled extensively to the Middle East and was one of the first to call for a special session of EU Foreign Ministers at the onset of last summer's hostilities in Lebanon. In addition, Portugal has contributed an Army engineering company to UNIFIL. Portugal shares our deep concerns about Iran's nuclear weapons program and has been very supportive of efforts to increase pressure on Tehran. 11. (C) Afghanistan: Portuguese Special Forces and other troops serve without caveat and are engaged in heavy fighting in the volatile south. In addition, in response to an appeal from the United States, Portugal recently agreed to assume leadership of one Operational Mentoring and Liaison Team (OMLT). The Portuguese stress that they are with us in Afghanistan for the duration of NATO operations so congratulations for their current contributions are in order as well as encouragement to continue. Portugal has contributed $2 million in assistance; however, they are financially over-stretched and have not given more because of budgetary constraints. 12. (C) Iraq: Portugal had an infantry company in Iraq for two years and also contributed trainers for the police training mission. Portugal recently downsized its diplomatic presence in Baghdad because of cost (its operations were four times as expensive as any other embassy), but let us know far in advance and wanted to coordinate what they said publicly as they were sensitive to the political ramifications. 13. (C) Africa: Portugal has a special relationship with Africa, particularly with its former colonies. It intends to host an EU-Africa Summit, although it has tried to deflect diplomatic conflict over the potential attendance of Zimbabwe's President Robert Mugabe who is subject to an EU travel ban. The UK, the Netherlands, and others may not attend at the head of government level should Mugabe participate. Although the Portuguese have led the development of an action plan between the EU and African Union, the negative ramifications of Mugabe's presence in Lisbon could overshadow any accomplishments. 14. (SBU) Major Economies Meeting: Socrates was pleased that Portugal, in its capacity as EU President, was invited to represent the European Union at the September 27-28 Major Economies Meeting on Climate Change and Energy Security in Washington. He is strong proponent of environmental issues, having served as Environment Minister from 1999-2002. The current Environment State Secretary Humberto Rosa is scheduled to lead the delegation. Particular Bilateral Points ---------------------------- 15. (SBU) The Portuguese government has, at the highest levels, stressed its interest in collaborating with the United States to strengthen security and stability in Africa, an effort which has begun in earnest. We are conducting joint demining training in Guinea-Bissau and are looking at developing an HIV prevention program for African armed forces. We are also exploring opportunities to work together in the Special Operations arena in Africa. We hope to include the Portuguese in peacekeeping training in Mozambique and Angola under the African Contingency Operations training and Assistance (ACOTA) program and a joint State-Defense team from Washington recently visited Lisbon to discuss further opportunities. In addition, our Department of Commerce has been working with Portuguese counterparts on a program to computerize Angola's judicial records. 16. (S/NF) Socrates agreed to allow the repatriation of enemy combatants out of Guatanamo through Lajes Air Base on a case-by-case basis. This was a difficult decision, given the sustained criticism by Portuguese media and leftist elements of his own party over the government's handling of the CIA rendition flights controversy. Socrates's agreement has never been made public. The Attorney General's Office was forced to review a dossier of news clippings and unsubstantiated allegations regarding CIA rendition operations through Portugal provided by a member of the European Parliament. The AG's report should be released in the near future. Although we cannot predict its conclusions, government insiders and legal scholars have told us there was no useful or prosecutable information in the dossier. Prime Minister Socrates ----------------------- 17. (C) Socrates is a telegenic and charismatic leader, who worked hard to improve his English in advance of the EU presidency. He relies on advice from a small circle of advisors. He is a very moderate Socialist who has been successful at co-opting or marginalizing the leftists in his party, from whom he has taken some heat for his pro-U.S. policies. He also aggressively pursued his domestic agenda before assuming the EU presidency, achieving difficult labor and social security reforms and reducing Portugal's budget deficit to near EU-mandated levels. Hoffman

Portugal EUA WikiLeaks Cable Amado disse: "Foi uma decisão difícil por causa das críticas dos meios de comunicação social e da Esquerda"

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Cable em que Amado disse: "Foi uma decisão difícil por causa das críticas dos meios de comunicação social e dos esquerdistas"

O ministro dos Negócios Estrangeiros, Luís Amado, reconhece que a autorização do seu Governo ao sobrevoo de aviões com prisioneiros de Guantánamo repatriados foi uma decisão difícil, devido "às críticas insistentes dos media portugueses e elementos esquerdistas do partido do Governo".

ID:	115089
Date:	2007-07-11 18:30:00
Origin:	07LISBON1812
Source:	Embassy Lisbon
Classification:	SECRET
Dunno:
Destination:	VZCZCXRO9656 PP RUEHAG RUEHROV DE RUEHLI #1812/01 1921830 ZNY SSSSS ZZH P 111830Z JUL 07 FM AMEMBASSY LISBON TO RUEHC/SECSTATE WASHDC PRIORITY 6037 INFO RUCNMEM/EU MEMBER STATES PRIORITY
S E C R E T SECTION 01 OF 03 LISBON 001812 SIPDIS SIPDIS FOR THE SECRETARY FROM CHARGE D'AFFAIRES ADRIENNE O'NEAL E.O. 12958: DECL: 07/10/2017 TAGS: PREL, PO SUBJECT: SCENESETTER FOR YOUR VISIT TO PORTUGAL JULY 19-20 Classified By: Charge d'Affaires Adrienne O'Neal for reasons 1.4 (B) an d (D). 1. (SBU) Madam Secretary: Your visit -- at the beginning of Portugal's EU presidency -- is particularly timely and provides an excellent opportunity to try to shape from the outset the Portuguese government's priorities in a direction consistent with U.S. interests. Portugal - Steadfast Ally ------------------------------ 2. (SBU) Portugal, a founding member of NATO, is a steadfast ally who has consistently stood by our side over the years despite various changes in government. The President and Prime Minister -- from opposing political parties -- each regularly stress that trans-Atlantic relations are a pillar of Portuguese foreign policy and that NATO is the primary guarantor of European security. 3. (SBU) Portugal has provided virtually free access to Portuguese air and seaports for military support operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, with over three thousand flights a year transiting Lajes Air Base in the Azores. Despite severe budgetary constraints, it is engaged internationally on numerous fronts with military personnel in Iraq, Afghanistan (where it lost one soldier), East Timor, Kosovo, Bosnia, and Lebanon, and it is a member of the Proliferation Security Initiative, the Container Security Initiative, and the Global Initiative to Combat Nuclear Terrorism. EU presidency priorities ----------------------------- 4. (C) While agreement on a treaty for EU reform vice a Constitution was achieved during the German presidency, detailed negotiation and signature of the treaty will fall to the Portuguese presidency. This internal EU task will not derail Portugal,s external policy goals, but it will absorb scarce resources and high-level attention within the Portuguese government, ensuring that we will need to motivate Portugal on key issues. 5. (U) Foreign Minister Amado has noted that the EU,s biggest foreign policy concern is along its southern and southeastern borders, which are threatened by radical Islam and poverty. He has proposed strengthening the EU,s ties to Washington, Moscow, and Mediterranean countries to help contain radical Islam in that region; this strategy includes supporting Turkish accession to the EU, involving the EU more closely in the Middle East Peace Process, and strengthening the EU,s economic and cultural ties to the region through the Barcelona Process. 6. (C) The Portuguese are expected to take a facilitative approach, in stark contrast with the aggressive leadership of Germany,s presidency. They will seek broad consensus on most issues, dedicating their individual efforts to the few issues they care about: a strategic partnership with Africa and the Middle East processes noted above. Beyond those issues, the Portuguese governmental structure is occupied with a series of summits with Brazil, India, China, Russia, Ukraine, and Africa. 7. (C) The just completed EU-Brazil Summit was successful in establishing a long-term relationship with a significant partner and energizing the debate in Europe on biofuels. Portuguese interlocutors candidly told us that they did not expect much and that the summit was only the first step toward an EU-Brazil strategic partnership, but that they were delighted with the outcome. We believe this may raise Portuguese ambitions for the other summits. Suggested areas of focus ------------------------ 8. (C) Kosovo: The Portuguese support the Ahtisaari proposal but have no alternative to having the Russians on board. They have seized on the idea of delaying the introduction of a UN Resolution while further talks continue and have no plans on how to react if the Kosovars declare independence unilaterally. A/S Fried,s July 9 appeal to the Kosovars not to do so pleased the Portuguese, but they need to understand that leaving Kosovo in limbo is not an option and that the Kosovars' patience -- even with US pressure -- is finite. 9. (C) Russia: Prime Minister Socrates visited Moscow recently and was criticized in many quarters for his failure to address aggressive behavior against allies Poland and Estonia, human rights issues, or Moscow,s penchant for LISBON 00001812 002 OF 003 rhetoric and gamesmanship on energy and security. Indeed, Socrates, advisors suggested to us following the trip that we needed to tone down our own rhetoric in order to make various negotiations more fruitful. 10. (C) Middle East: The Portuguese believe they have little historical baggage in the region and thus can advance progress on key issues. They have stressed many times and at the highest levels that the Road Map is the way forward, but that it needs to be reinvigorated. Foreign Minister Amado backed away from the recent Mediterranean FMs, letter to Quartet Representative Tony Blair -- which he signed -- stating that &the Road Map has failed,8 and a senior advisor was dismissive of the letter,s text, saying neither the EU nor the Portuguese position has changed. Amado has traveled extensively to the Middle East and was one of the first to call for a special session of EU Foreign Ministers at the onset of last summer,s hostilities in Lebanon. Portugal was prepared to commit forces to any potential peacekeeping force, even before the structure and sponsorship of such a force had been established. Portugal eventually sent a company of Army engineers to help with reconstruction. Amado told us that he sees Iran as the greatest threat since WWII, and his ministry has been supportive of tough measures in light of Iran's refusal to halt nuclear enrichment. 11. (C) Afghanistan: Portuguese Special Forces and other troops serve without caveat and are engaged in heavy fighting. The current company is scheduled to depart in February 2008 and replacements have not yet been designated or funded. The Portuguese stress that they are with us in Afghanistan for the duration of NATO operations, so congratulations for their current contributions are in order as well as encouragement to continue. Portugal has contributed $2 million in assistance; however, they are financially over-stretched and have not done more because of that. 12. (C) Iraq: Portugal contributed gendarme trainers for the NTM-I police training mission. Portugal recently downsized its diplomatic presence in Baghdad because of cost (its operations were four times as expensive as any other embassy), but let us know far in advance and wanted to coordinate what they said publicly as they were sensitive to the political ramifications. 13. (C) Africa: Portugal has a special relationship with Africa, particularly with its former colonies. It intends to host an EU-Africa Summit, although it has deferred diplomatic conflict over the Zimbabwe question, even though the UK, the Netherlands, and others may not attend at the head of government level should Mugabe attend. Although the Portuguese have led the development of an action plan between the EU and African Union, the negative ramifications of Mugabe's presence in Lisbon could overshadow any accomplishments. Particular Bilateral Points ------------------------------- 14. (SBU) Portugal,s interest in Africa for the EU presidency is a good opportunity to underscore the progress in US-Portugal cooperation to strengthen security and stability in Africa. When Foreign Minister Amado was still Defense Minister, he strongly encouraged trilateral cooperation between the US, Portugal, and individual African countries on security issues in Africa. Since that time, we have conducted joint demining training in Guinea-Bissau and begun developing an HIV prevention program among African armed forces. We hope to include the Portuguese in peacekeeping training in Mozambique and Angola under the African Contingency Operations training and Assistance (ACOTA) program and a joint State-Defense team from Washington hopes to visit Lisbon this fall to discuss further opportunities. 15. (S/NF) Amado agreed to allow the repatriation of prisoners through Lajes Air Base on a case-by-case basis under limited circumstances. This was a difficult decision, given the sustained criticism by Portuguese media and leftist elements of his own party of the government,s handling of the CIA rendition flights controversy. Amado,s agreement has never been made public. The Attorney General,s Office was forced to review a dossier of news clippings and unsubstantiated allegations regarding CIA rendition operations through Portugal provided by a member of the European Parliament. The AG,s report should be released in the very near future. Although we cannot predict its conclusions, government insiders and legal scholars have told us there was no useful or prosecutable information in the dossier. LISBON 00001812 003 OF 003 Prime Minister Socrates ----------------------- 16. (C) Socrates is a telegenic and charismatic leader, who worked hard to improve his English in advance of the EU presidency. He relies on advice from a small circle of advisors. He is a very moderate Socialist who has been successful at co-opting or marginalizing the leftists in his party. He also aggressively pursued his domestic agenda before assuming the EU presidency, achieving difficult labor and social security reforms and reducing Portugal,s budget deficit to near EU-mandated levels. Foreign Minister Amado ---------------------- 17. (C) You met with Amado last October in Washington and have spoken with him in person and on the telephone several times since. He has been a great friend of the US, both in his previous capacity as Minister of Defense and now as Foreign Minister. He is even-tempered, thoughtful, and low-key, and regularly seeks opportunities to coordinate policy with the US. He places great importance on presenting a united public front, whether within the EU, NATO or with the US. If there are differences, he prefers to discuss them discreetly behind closed doors. President Cavaco Silva ---------------------- 18. (C) Cavaco Silva is the most popular politician in Portugal, even though his center-right party badly trails Socrates, Socialist Party in polls. Although the Portuguese presidency does not wield the executive power of the US presidency, the position is not ceremonial. Cavaco Silva is commander in chief of the armed forces and must approve all military deployments and chairs the Council of State, which handles all constitutional issues. Cavaco Silva considers former President George H.W. Bush a personal friend, with whom he developed a close relationship during his years as Prime Minister from 1985-95. The elder President Bush attended Cavaco Silva,s presidential inauguration in March 2006. Cavaco Silva was displeased that he did not get an Oval Office meeting with President George W. Bush during his recent visit to Washington to open a Smithsonian exhibition of Portuguese art, and he declined the former President Bush,s offer to visit Kennebunkport. Hoffman

Portugal EUA WikiLeaks Cable Embaixador Hoffman a Condoleezza Rice: "Portugal é um firme aliado"

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Cable do embaixador Hoffman a Condoleezza Rice: "Portugal é um firme aliado"
Alfred Hoffman, embaixador dos EUA em Lisboa, escreve a secretaria de Estado, Condoleezza Rice, faz um grande elogio de Portugal e recorda que o Governo luso abriu o espaço aéreo e marítimo para operações militares de apoio estadounidense no Iraque y Afeganistão

ID:	82694
Date:	2006-10-20 17:13:00
Origin:	06LISBON2366
Source:	Embassy Lisbon
Classification:	SECRET
Dunno:
Destination:	VZCZCXYZ0013 OO RUEHWEB DE RUEHLI #2366/01 2931713 ZNY SSSSS ZZH O 201713Z OCT 06 FM AMEMBASSY LISBON TO SECSTATE WASHDC IMMEDIATE 5281
S E C R E T LISBON 002366 SIPDIS SIPDIS FOR THE SECRETARY FROM AMBASSADOR ALFRED HOFFMAN, JR. E.O. 12958: DECL: 10/19/2026 TAGS: MOPS, PGOV, PREL, PO SUBJECT: SCENESETTER FOR FM AMADO'S OCT 24 MEETING WITH SECRETARY RICE SIPDIS Classified By: Acting Pol/Econ Counselor Cari Enav for reasons 1.4 (b) and (d) Summary ----------- 1. (S/NF) Foreign Minister Luis Amado's visit with you is part of Portugal's effort to raise its profile in the international arena, particularly in the run-up to its EU Presidency which it will assume in the latter half of 2007. Although Prime Minister Socrates focused primarily on domestic issues during his first year in office, the government has made international engagement a priority since Amado assumed his current position as Foreign Minister in July 2006. Minister Amado will want to discuss Portugal's agenda for its EU Presidency (emphasis on the Middle East and Africa), the US-EU Transatlantic Relationship and the role Portugal plays in it. He will expect you to raise our request to use Lajes AirBase in the Azores to repatriate Guantanamo detainees. The Minister --------------- 2. (C) The superb personal relationship I enjoyed with Amado when he was Defense Minister continues in his current capacity as Foreign Minister. I have found him to be even-tempered (unlike his unpredictable predecessor Diogo Freitas do Amaral), thoughtful and low-key. He is pro-US, committed to a strong NATO and Transatlantic relationship and seeks to coordinate policy with the US. He places great importance on presenting a united public front, whether it be within the EU, NATO or with the US. If there are differences, he prefers to discuss them discreetly behind closed doors. Minister Amado last visited the U.S. in his official capacity of Minister of Defense in November 2005 when he had a personal meeting with Defense Secretary Rumsfield. He is still smarting from being stood up by the NSC - Crouch during last year's visit. It would be to our benefit to stroke him a lot. Portugal - Steadfast Ally ------------------------------ 3. (SBU) Portugal, a founding member of NATO, is a steadfast ally who has consistently stood by our side over the years despite various changes in government. Portugal was an early supporter of US operations in Iraq, hosting the Azores Summit just before the war. It has provided virtually free access to Portuguese air and seaports for flights supporting military operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, with over three thousand flight a year transiting Lajes Air Base in the Azores. Despite severe budgetary constraints, it is engaged internationally on numerous fronts with military personnel in Iraq, Afghanistan (where it lost one soldier), East Timor, the Congo, Kosovo, Bosnia and soon Lebanon, and it is member of both the Proliferation Security Initiative and the Security Container Initiative. New Approach to International Engagement ------------------------------------------ 4. (SBU) Minister Amado and other government officials have underscored to me Portugal's desire to influence - not just follow - international policy. He has stated publicly on several occasions the need for Portugal to be engaged globally, not just for the sake of its alliances, but for the country's own safety and security. He first relayed this message late last year when he traveled to Afghanistan as Minister of Defense following the loss of a Portuguese soldier there and has since reaffirmed Portugal,s commitment to the war against terrorism on several occasions. He has taken a pro-active role in the Middle East, particularly during the most recent conflict in Lebanon where he was in the forefront of EU leaders calling for a variety of initiatives to deal with the crisis. He also hopes to host engage more broadly on African issues. The Transatlantic Relationship --------------------------------------- 5. (SBU) Amado is a strong advocate of the Transatlantic relationship. He is looking to fortify engagement between the US and NATO, the EU and Portugal and implement his own brand of "transformational diplomacy" by working with the US in hot spots around the world. He will want to discuss NATO, peacekeeping efforts, and the transformation of the alliance in preparation for the Riga Summit later this year. He will likely reaffirm Portugal's commitment to the fight against terrorism and express disappointment that the U.S. has decided to support Bucharest to host the 2008 Summit instead of Lisbon. On the other hand, he will welcome the recently announced intent to upgrade the NATO Command at Lisbon into a Full Command with responsibility in Africa. EU Presidency ------------------- 6. (C) Minister Amado has told me that Portugal's main foreign policy objectives during its EU Presidency will focus on the Middle East and Africa. Amado has already traveled extensively to the Middle East where he believes Portugal's relationship with the Maghreb states and its position as an honest broker can help move the peace process forward. Amado was one of the first to call for a special session of EU Foreign Ministers at the onset of the summer hostilities in Lebanon, and Portugal is sending a contingent of Army engineers to there later this year to help with reconstruction. Although I have underscored the US position on engagement with Syria on numerous occasions, Amado believes dialogue with Damascus is necessary to resolve the regional conflicts and to isolate Iran. Amado further told me that he sees Iran as the greatest threat since WWII, and his diplomatic advisor confirmed that Amado is pressing for sanctions in light of the failed efforts to halt nuclear enrichment. 7. (SBU) Portugal has a special relationship with Africa, particularly with its former colonies. It would like to host an EU-Africa Summit and is looking at creative solutions to work around the Zimbabwe question. Amado,s diplomatic advisor commented that perhaps locating the summit in Africa rather than in Europe might resolve the thorny issue. Strategic policy issues would include Darfur, energy issues, the fight against poverty and illegal immigration. 8. (SBU) This might be a good opportunity to underscore the need to show progress in US-Portugal cooperation to bring security and stability in Africa. At the Rumsfeld-Amado meeting a year ago, the two sides agreed to focus on working together on security issues in Africa. A variety of US proposals have been explored such as joint training of peacekeepers in Mozambique and Angola, joint training of deminers in Guinea-Bissau, and cooperation in HIV Prevention among African Armed Forces. Unfortunately, we have achieved no forward movement, and we would welcome any specific proposals from the Portuguese side. CIA Flight Inquiry Complicates Gitmo Repatriation Request --------------------------------------------- --------------- 9. (S/NF) Amado has told me that he would like to assist us in our efforts to repatriate Guantanamo detainees through Lajes AirBase. However, given intense CIA Rendition scrutiny and his own party's left wing opposition to his pro-US slant, Amado underscored the need to be on firm legal ground before consenting to do so. Subsequent conversations with MFA staff indicate that Amado is awaiting the US to address his concerns before responding to our request. 10. (S/NF) I would like to underscore the delicate balancing act Amado is confronting in minimizing damage to his government - however unwarranted - due to previous CIA Rendition investigations while trying to convince it to grant our request for access to Lajes AirBase. Unrelenting media and political attacks which have been ongoing for months resulted in an atypical outburst before Portugal's Parliament earlier this week. Amado publicly offered to resign if anyone could prove the government was complicit in an illegal act related to CIA flights on Portuguese territory. It would be of great assistance if you could personally express appreciation for Amado's steadfastness in supporting the US position on this issue and his continued contribution of troops to global operations. Comment ------------ 11. (C) I believe you will find the Minister intelligent, deliberate, and engaging. He will likely raise the possibility of Prime Minister Jose Socrates meeting with President Bush in Washington before Portugal assumes the EU Presidency. I urge you to support this request, and as early as possible, particularly in view of the fact that it was made almost two years ago and that Portugal is now working on the joint EU agenda with Germany and Slovenia. Amado will also be exploring opportunities to invite high level USG officials, including yourself, to Portugal during its EU Presidency and might try to revitalize a BMENA Conference which did not receive an enthusiastic State Department response. Hoffman

Portugal EUA WikiLeaks Cable Luis Amado disse no Parlamento que se demitirá se existirem provas da acusação de cumplicidade do Governo com os voos ilegais de la CIA

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Cable em que Luis Amado compromete a demissão se se provarem as acusações dos voos da CIA

O ministro dos Negócios Estrangeiros de Portugal, Luis Amado, disse no Parlamento que se demitirá se existirem provas da acusação de cumplicidade do Governo com os voos ilegais de la CIA.

ID:	82691
Date:	2006-10-20 16:52:00
Origin:	06LISBON2365
Source:	Embassy Lisbon
Classification:	SECRET//NOFORN
Dunno:	05LISBON1609 06LISBON1921
Destination:	VZCZCXYZ0020 PP RUEHWEB DE RUEHLI #2365/01 2931652 ZNY SSSSS ZZH P 201652Z OCT 06 FM AMEMBASSY LISBON TO RUEHC/SECSTATE WASHDC PRIORITY 5279 INFO RUEKJCS/SECDEF WASHDC PRIORITY
S E C R E T LISBON 002365 SIPDIS SIPDIS NOFORN E.O. 12958: DECL: 10/19/2026 TAGS: PREL, PGOV, MOPS, PO SUBJECT: PORTUGUESE FM OFFERS TO RESIGN IF CIA FLIGHT ALLEGATIONS PROVE TRUE REF: A. 2005 LISBON 1609 B. LISBON 1921 C. OCTOBER 12 DVC (WITH DOS DOD AND EMBASSY LISBON) Classified By: POL CHIEF TROY FITRELL, REASONS 1.4 (B,D) 1. (S/NF) Summary: Portugal's Foreign Minister offered to resign if opposition forces can demonstrate any complicity on the part of the government regarding alleged illegal CIA rendition flights through Portuguese territory. While a government investigation has refuted these allegations, the saga continues due to continued opposition party and European Parliament pressure. This pressure complicates the US request to repatriate Guantanamo detainees via Portugal. End summary. 2. (U) Ongoing pressure from Portugal's Left Bloc and from the European Parliament led to a testy exchange in Portugal's Parliament on October 18, in which Foreign Minister Luis Amado offered to resign if the opposition could prove Government of Portugal (GOP) complicity with the USG regarding alleged illegal CIA flights violating Portuguese sovereignty. 3. (U) Amado's most recent testimony reflected that of his predecessor, Diogo Freitas do Amaral in December 2005 (Ref A) and his own earlier testimony on September 5 this year, noting the GOP had completed an investigation that discovered no information to support allegations that CIA flights violated Portugal's territory or airspace to transport terrorism suspects. Amado told the Parliamentary Committee that "None of the explanations or data collected... constitutes a credible indication that the law may have been broken on Portuguese soil." He went on to tell reporters that a joint investigation by four government departments, also involving the country's intelligence agencies, immigration service and flight control authorities, conducted a review of plane movements but found no firm evidence." Amado admitted that the alleged CIA flights might have come through Portugal, but added that Portugal "has nothing to be ashamed of." According to the Minister, there is no evidence that the CIA committed illegal acts in Portuguese territory and even stated that he has had nothing but "total transparency and cooperation" from American authorities. 4. (U) Freitas do Amaral had offered the government investigation as a way to address the allegations. The results, however, have not silenced the GOP's critics, especially in the Left Bloc or the European Parliament. Portugal's Parliament has established an ad hoc committee to continue hearings on the subject and a delegation from the European Parliament is scheduled to visit Portugal in December to interview Amado, who has declined to visit Brussels to meet with Euro Deputies. Effect on Repatriation Request ------------------------------ 5. (S/NF) Amado's testimony reflects the continued political and media pressure on the GOP regarding this subject and makes the GOP's efforts to assist in repatriation of Guantanamo detainees all the more difficult. It is critical that Washington readers recognize the GOP's need to ensure that it is on solid legal ground regarding our request on detainees. 6. (S/NF) Portuguese law, as interpreted by the GOP (which could change), requires written assurance by the final destination country that detainees will not be tortured or receive the death penalty as well as a US guarantee that they will be treated according to internationally-recognized conventions in the destination country. Without these assurances, the GOP will have difficulty n supporting repatriation flights through Portuguese territory or airspace. We eagerly await Washington addressees response to the Portuguese points as discussed Ref C. The GOP will undoubtedly expect this issue to be discussed at the October 24 meeting between Amado and Secretary Rice in Washington. The Media --------- 7. (U) The local press eagerly reprints hearsay on this tantalizing subject as left wing politicians unveil "new facts" every few days to fan the political fires. Post believes the media will continue to sensationalize the issue as long as it has legs. Comment ------- 8. (S/NF) The normally unflappable Amado lost his cool during the testimony; an event that is completely out of character and shows the effects of unrelenting media and political attacks. Despite this outburst, we believe Amado will continue to reiterate what the investigation has revealed - the government has no evidence of illegal CIA flights on/through Portuguese territory. However, Post underscores the delicate balancing act Amado is confronting in minimizing damage to his government - however unwarranted - due to the CIA Rendition investigation while trying to convince it to grant our request to repatriate Guantanamo detainees through Lajes. Right now, it would be to our advantage to stroke him a lot. Hoffman

Portugal WikiLeaks Cable EUA Pedem Autorização Uzo base das Lajes para Transportar Presos Guantánamo

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Cable onde EUA pedem autorização para usar a base das Lajes para repatriar prisioneiros de Guantánamo
O embaixador dos EUA em Lisboa, Alfred Hoffman, pede ao ministro dos Negócios Estrangeiros de Portugal, Luis Amado, luz verde para o uso da base das Lajes (Açores), para escala ds vuelos de repatriamento de prisioneiros de Guantánamo

ID:	77718
Date:	2006-09-08 16:57:00
Origin:	06LISBON1921
Source:	Embassy Lisbon
Classification:	SECRET
Dunno:	05LISBON1609 06LISBON1593 06LISBON1845 06STATE147780
Destination:	VZCZCXYZ0008 OO RUEHWEB DE RUEHLI #1921/01 2511657 ZNY SSSSS ZZH O 081657Z SEP 06 FM AMEMBASSY LISBON TO RUEHC/SECSTATE WASHDC IMMEDIATE 5129 INFO RUEKJCS/JOINT STAFF WASHDC IMMEDIATE RHEHNSC/NSC WASHDC IMMEDIATE RUEKJCS/SECDEF WASHDC IMMEDIATE
S E C R E T LISBON 001921 SIPDIS SIPDIS E.O. 12958: DECL: 09/07/2026 TAGS: MOPS, PREL, PTER, PO, US, VE SUBJECT: AMBASSADOR - FOREIGN MINISTER TOUR D'HORIZON REF: A. STATE 147780 B. 2005 LISBON 1609 C. LISBON 1845 D. LISBON 1593 Classified By: Classified by Pol/Econ Officer Cari Enav for reasons 1.4 (a) (b) and (d) Summary ----------- 1. (S/NF) Ambassador Hoffman's meeting with Foreign Minister Amado on September 8 covered the waterfront of issues. The Minister said that he would push hard with the Prime Minister to allow Lajes to be used as a transit point in repatriating Guantanamo detainees (ref a). During recent closed testimony before the Portuguese Parliament, he did not diverge from his predecessor's position that the Portuguese government was not aware of any CIA flights on/through Portugal (ref b). He highlighted the EU's increased involvement in the Middle East, calling for greater engagement with Syria to isolate Iran. Amado said he would encourage other members of the Community of Portuguese-speaking Nations (CPLP) to vote for Guatemala for the UNSC. Amado reiterated his request to meet with Secretary Rice as soon as possible to discuss the Guantanamo SIPDIS detainee repatriation request in addition to Portugal's upcoming EU Presidency agenda. Transit at Lajes for Detainee Flights ------------------------------------------- 2. (S/NF) Ambassador Hoffman gave the Foreign Minister a copy of President Bush's Sept. 6 speech on the Global War on Terrorism, noting the President's desire to be transparent and to address the suspended state of many Guantanamo detainees. He asked the Minister if the USG could use Lajes as a transit point for flights returning detainees to their home countries, per ref a. Minister Amado said that he needed to check with the Prime Minister who would be difficult to convince, but that he would push hard for Portuguese cooperation so long as there was total transparency. Details would need to be worked out; there would need to be a clear political approach. He underscored that there could be tremendous negative fallout if this was not done right. The timing was not ideal on the heels of his Sept. 5 testimony on CIA flights. He promised to provide an interim answer next week. He said that he needed to meet with Secretary Rice to discuss this and a host of related issues. 3. (S/NF) Amado said that the return of Guantanamo detainees would be an excellent opportunity for the USG to "turn the page" and to begin working on a new human rights image. Europe understood the USG reaction to the horrific events of 9/11, but it was time to return to normalcy since effective security measures had been put in place. He noted that Europe and the US shared a value system and that this initiative provided an excellent base upon which to rebuild the framework of cooperation. Testimony on CIA Flights ------------------------------- 4. (C) Minister Amado said that his Sept. 5 closed-door testimony on CIA flights before Portugal's Parliament did not diverge from his predecessor's position that the Portuguese government was not aware of any CIA flights on/ through Portuguese soil. Amado commented, "I said what (Freitas do Amaral) said." He also reiterated the government's willingness to revamp the legal framework for the clearance process. He added that Freitas do Amaral had sent a letter to the European Parliament's Temporary Committee investigating CIA flights in response to its inquiries. Amado commented that the media had misquoted him when it said that he had acknowledged CIA flights. All he said was that he had the same list of flights as Eurocontrol had. 5. (C) In addition to European Parliament agitation on this issue, Amado expressed a need to control his own Socialist Party. He said there was not a broad consensus within the party to pursue a strong transatlantic foreign policy and that there was concern that the "left wing" within the party could break away in response to the government's handling of human rights and security issues. 6. (C) Ambassador Hoffman assured Amado that the US was very careful to abide by all its agreements with Portugal - in word and in spirit - and that the Ambassador had shared all the information he had on the subject with Amado. Underscoring USG position on Middle East --------------------------------------------- ------- 7. (C) Ambassador Hoffman thanked Amado for his pro-active role within the EU during the recent conflict in Lebanon and for Portugal's contribution to UNIFIL. He urged Portugal to encourage continued EU coordination on Middle East policy, underscored the four principles guiding US policy on Syria, and reiterated the importance of diplomatically isolating Iran. He asked that Portugal encourage other EU members to do the same and that Portugal inform Post in advance of any official meetings with controversial figures. EU's New Role ------------------- 8. (C) Amado commented that at the beginning of August, the EU had "nothing to say" on developments in the Middle East, and that many member-states were afraid that the conflict in Lebanon would spiral out of control. A month later, the Council of Ministers had met three times and agreed to pursue a greater political and military role - beyond the traditional role of providing development and humanitarian assistance. Amado underscored that there was a strong desire within the EU to coordinate initiatives with the US so as not to open a new rift in the transatlantic relationship. He said the EU needed "to coordinate internally, with the US and with Russia" on finding solutions to the Middle East's many problems. Amado says - Engage Syria, Isolate Iran --------------------------------------------- ------ 9. (C) Amado said that Iran posed the greatest threat since WWII - alluding to the country's growing influence in the Middle East, the spread of Islamic fundamentalism, and its nuclear program - and underscored the need for all sides to work together on solving the problem. (Note: He did not offer any concrete examples.) He agreed with the USG's four basic principles on Syria. However, he added, the EU thought it was important to engage Syria, and that by doing so, the West would be in a better position to isolate Iran. On the other hand, if the West isolated Syria, it would push the country further into Iran's sphere of influence. He noted that officials from Finland, Greece, Germany and Spain had recently met with Syrian officials, and he encouraged the US to have greater political contact with Syria. He said that he had agreed to meet with Syrian Foreign Minister Bilal after learning that several Socialist Party members had already agreed to do so (ref c) . 10. (C) Amado said that the EU wanted to isolate Iran by enhancing the role of the Arab League in drawing a distinction between Arab and Islamic identity. Limiting the spread of Islamic fundamentalismhe declared, could limit Iran's influence in the Muslim world. He did not buy into any of the claims by Syrian Information Minister Bilal that the US was to blame for all the Middle East's woes, underscoring to Bilal the strong US-Portuguese alliance and the strong role the US played in the global arena. He urged Syria to focus on the issues, not play the blame game. Urging the CPLP to support Guatemala --------------------------------------------- --- 11. (C) The Ambassador encouraged Portugal to reach out to the Lusophone community to urge support for Guatemala's election to the UNSC. Amado said he planned to do so when he meets with members of the Community of Portuguese Speaking Nations (CPLP) in New York later this month. Amado would not confirm an official visit by Hugo Chavez to Portugal later this year (ref d). While admitting that they could not hold him off forever, Amado commented that no arrangements had been made to receive Chavez. He added that he had recently met with Brazilian President Lula, who he thought could offer useful insight into dealing with Venezuela. Portugal planned to have greater dialogue with Lula should he win reelection. He emphasized the need for strong US engagement with Brazil to manage the Venezuela situation. Comment ----------- 12. (S/NF) As usual, this was a very friendly and broad-ranging discussion. Amado is very pro-American and extremely accessible. He was strongly supportive of our request to use Lajes as a refueling/transit point for Gitmo detainees being returned to their home countries and was prepared to press the Prime Minister for an expeditious and positive response, so long as we continue to be fully transparent with the GOP about the flights. Hoffman

Wikileaks El País Madeleine McCann Cable polícia inglesa tinha provas que incriminavam os pais de Madeleine McCann

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Num telegrama obtido pelo Wikileaks, o embaixador do Reino Unido diz ao congénere dos EUA que foi a polícia inglesa que descobriu provas que incriminavam os pais de Madeleine McCann, a menina desaparecida.

Existe apenas um telegrama dos obtidos pelo Wikileaks que fala sobre o caso Madeleine McCann e, tal como revela o El País, resulta de uma conversa entre os embaixadores do Reino Unido e dos EUA em Lisboa em finais de 2007.

O primeiro conta ao segundo que foram os polícias britânicos que se deslocaram ao Algarve que descobriram as provas que incriminavam Kate e Gerry McCann pelo desaparecimento da pequena Maddie a 3 de Maio desses mesmo ano na Praia da Luz.

Uma revelação que é totalmente contraditória com aquilo que foi noticiado na altura, nomeadamente pela Imprensa britânica, que chegou muitas vezes a por em causa o trabalho de investigação da Polícia Judiciária. Recorde-se que os pais de Maddie foram constituídos arguidos pela justiça portuguesa, decisão que provocou grande celeuma entre os dois países. Afinal, segundo o telegrama, é o próprio embaixador britânico que confidencia que foram as autoridades inglesas que encontraram as provas que faziam dos denunciantes os principais suspeitos.

Richard Ellis, que acabava de chegar a Lisboa, visita o seu colega norte-americano e os dois abordam o assunto que corria, na altura, o mundo inteiro. Ao contrário do que transparecia para a opinião pública, o diplomata britânico revela que as policiais de Portugal e do Reino Unido estavam coordenadas e que tudo era tratado com o máximo de sigilo.


Gonçalo Amaral
"Não foi a polícia inglesa que chegou a essas conclusões"

O ex-investigador da PJ afirma que "é estranho" que seja necessário um embaixador falar de provas "para se dar alguma veracidade à responsabilidade dos McCann. No entanto, diz que não foram os ingleses os responsáveis.


"Eu acompanhei a investigação, sei o que lá está e sei o que falta fazer e sei que há responsabilidade no desaparecimento, não tenho dúvida nenhuma quanto a isso", afirmou Gonçalo Amaral, o ex-coordenador da investigação do desaparecimento de Madeleine McCann, na Praia da Luz, no Algarve, em maio de 2007.

O autor do livro "Maddie -- A Verdade da Mentira" falava à agência Lusa, após o portal WikiLeaks ter revelado um telegrama confidencial do embaixador inglês em Lisboa, de 2007, em que terá admitido ao seu homólogo norte-americano na capital portuguesa que tinha sido a polícia inglesa a encontrar provas contra os pais de Madeleine.

No entanto, Gonçalo Amaral reafirma que "não foi a polícia inglesa que chegou a essas conclusões". "Não sei de que provas é que o embaixador inglês se estava a referir quando falou com o embaixador norte-americano. Agora, que há fortes indícios da responsabilidade dos pais, há, e foram recolhidos pela polícia portuguesa em cooperação com a polícia inglesa", garantiu.

Gonçalo Amaral espera ainda que o WikiLeaks "consiga imagens de satélite há tanto tempo aguardadas".

ID:	124011
Date:	2007-09-28 15:36:00
Origin:	07LISBON2527
Source:	Embassy Lisbon
Classification:	CONFIDENTIAL
Dunno:
Destination:	VZCZCXRO1258 RR RUEHDBU RUEHFL RUEHKW RUEHLA RUEHROV RUEHSR DE RUEHLI #2527/01 2711536 ZNY CCCCC ZZH R 281536Z SEP 07 FM AMEMBASSY LISBON TO RUEHC/SECSTATE WASHDC 6308 INFO RUEHZL/EUROPEAN POLITICAL COLLECTIVE
C O N F I D E N T I A L SECTION 01 OF 02 LISBON 002527 SIPDIS SIPDIS STATE FOR EUR/WE KEVIN OPSTRUP E.O. 12958: DECL: 09/25/2017 TAGS: PGOV, PREL, OFDP, PO SUBJECT: PORTUGAL: UK AMBASSADOR ON ENERGY SECURITY, RUSSIA, EU-AFRICA SUMMIT, AND MCCANN CASE Classified By: POL/ECON TIFFANY MCGRIFF FOR REASONS 1.4 (B),(D) SUMMARY ------- 1. (C) On September 21, newly-arrived British Ambassador Alexander Wykeham Ellis informed Ambassador Hoffman that European concerns over Russia's aggressive energy policies and the need for market competition were the driving forces behind the third EU energy liberalization package. He suggested that Russia's position with its neighbors was guided by a self-proclaimed right to do "what it wants, when it wants" in its own neighborhood. Regarding Robert Mugabe's participation in the proposed EU-Africa Summit, Ellis said the UK would not discourage other member states from participating if PM Brown stayed away. He doubted, however, if the Dutch, Irish, or Swedish would attend in Brown's absence. Ellis also noted that it was the British police that developed the current evidence against Madeleine McCann's parents in the high-profile case that has captured international attention. He informed the Ambassador that former British Ambassador John Buck had accepted a private-sector position at a UK gas company and that his departure had nothing to do with bilateral issues. END SUMMARY RUSSIA'S ENERGY GAME IS COMING TO AN END ---------------------------------------- 2. (C) According to Ellis, European concerns over Russia's aggressive energy policies and the need for increased market competition were the driving forces behind the third EU energy liberalization package. He called Russia the greatest threat to European energy security and described its energy policies as a "game that's coming to an end." He argued that Gazprom's sustainability depends on the European distribution network and that Putin, who is "always trying to make a point to Europe," knew and understood this reality. Quoting a statement he had heard elsewhere, Ellis described Russia as "too strong, too weak"; suggesting that it was a bipolar society divided by feelings of strength and empowerment and internal fears of national failure. RUSSIA, THE BIG BAD NEIGHBOR ---------------------------- 3. (C) When questioned about Kosovo and Russia's relationship with its neighbors, Ellis suggested that Russia's position (on Kosovo) was driven by a self-proclaimed right to do "what it wants, when it wants" in its own neighborhood. Ellis did not believe that Russia had high regard for Serbia or any of its other neighbors, but rather it feared outside influences in the region. Reflecting on his position as Director of the EU Enlargement Team in London (2001-2003), Ellis noted that completing the 2004 EU enlargement phase had been difficult, and hypothesized that if the Russia of now were the Russia of then, the process would have been nearly impossible. MUGABE...AND THE OTHER BAD GUYS ------------------------------- 4. (C) According to Ellis, the UK's position on Zimbabwe has not changed; if Robert Mugabe showed up, then Gordon Brown would not. However, he could not confirm if the British government would send any representatives. While he claimed that the UK had steered away from discouraging other member stated from attending, he noted the possibility that the Dutch, Irish, and Swedish leaders may follow Brown's lead. Regarding Chavez and Ahmadinejad, Ellis commented that Portugal's approach was centered on "engagement" -- even with the so-called bad guys. Ambassador Hoffman countered that "irrational people cannot be expected to behave rationally." While acknowledging that the US position was justifiable, Ellis responded that there were sensitivities at play for Portugal, especially regarding Venezuela. (Note: There are approximately a half-million Portuguese living in Venezuela. End Note) THE MADELEINE MCCANN CASE ------------------------- 5. (C) Madeleine McCann's disappearance in the south of Portugal in May 2007 has generated international media attention with controversy surrounding the Portuguese-led police investigation and the actions of Madeleine's parents. Without delving into the details of the case, Ellis admitted that the British police had developed the current evidence against the McCann parents, and he stressed that authorities from both countries were working cooperatively. He commented that the media frenzy was to be expected and was acceptable as long as government officials keep their comments behind closed doors. BIOGRAPHIC INFORMATION ----------------------------------------- 6. (SBU) Ellis, a former school teacher, joined Britain's LISBON 00002527 002 OF 002 Foreign and Commonwealth Office in 1990 and moved progressively up the chain to Ambassador. Lisbon was his first foreign tour as a diplomat, followed by postings in Brussels, Madrid and London. He has also served as Director of the EU Enlargement Team in London (2001-2003) and as adviser on energy policies and trade issues (2005-2007) under EC President Jose Barroso. He is married to Portuguese citizen Maria Teresa Adegas and has a nine-year old son. Ellis informed Ambassador Hoffman that former British Ambassador John Buck had accepted a private-sector position with a British gas company and that his abrupt departure in August 2007 had nothing to do with bilateral issues. Hoffman