Iraq: Dipnote announces imminent suspension

C O N F I D E N T I A L COLOMBO 001238 SIPDIS DEPARTMENT FOR SA, SA/INS, NEA E.O. 12958: DECL: 07-15-13 TAGS: PREL PGOV CE IZ SUBJECT: Iraq: Dipnote announces imminent suspension of Embassy operations Ref: Colombo 1214 (U) Classified by Donald A. Camp, Charge d'Affaires. Reasons 1.5 (b, d). ¶1. (U) This is an Action Request -- Please see Para three. ¶2. (U) Post received a circular diplomatic note on July 15 from the Iraqi Embassy to Sri Lanka stating that it was suspending operations "until further notice" on August 1. The dipnote states that this action is being taken "upon the instructions of the American Civil Administration." ¶3. (C) ACTION REQUEST: As requested Reftel, please provide us response to two requests from Sri Lankan Foreign Secretary on background and rationale for this action - GSL has expressed concerns that the closure of the Iraqi Embassy will have a detrimental effect on Sri Lanka's trade relationship with Iraq. Mission would like to be responsive in addressing GSL questions on this matter. END ACTION REQUEST. CAMP