U.S./TURKEY/IRAQ TRILATERAL PROCESSES: WHO WILL

C O N F I D E N T I A L ANKARA 006486 SIPDIS E.O. 12958: DECL: 11/16/2014 TAGS: PREL PTER ETRD TU IZ SUBJECT: U.S./TURKEY/IRAQ TRILATERAL PROCESSES: WHO WILL REPRESENT THE U.S.? REF: A. BAGHDAD 1827 ¶B. STATE 195610 ¶C. STATE 201785 ¶D. ANKARA 6312 AND PREVIOUS Classified By: DCM Robert S. Deutsch for reasons 1.4 (b) and (d). ¶1. (U) This is an action request--please see paras. five and six. ¶2. (C) We appreciate Embassy Baghdad's clarification (ref a) regarding the IIG's plans for separate trilateral (U.S./IIG/GOT) talks on trucker/contractor security and on border security/PKK issues. The Turks also believe these should be separate talks. ¶3. (SBU) Both the IIG and the Turks are focusing on Nov. 29 as the date for trucker security talks at or near the Habur Gate. Per ref a, we understand the IIG MFA's Neighboring Countries Director will head the Iraqi delegation. We understand from the Turks that an MFA Director General will lead the GOT delegation, which will also include representatives of the Turkish General Staff. ¶4. (SBU) Per ref b, and our discussions with the Turks, we understand that the purpose of the talks is as follows: --To share real-time information on the security situation on roads from the border to Baghdad as well as the security situation for Turkish contractors working in coalition support. --To discuss operational issues of convoy formation and protection with relevant Iraqi and MNF-I commanders. --Turkish officials may also raise their desire for assistance from Iraqi and MNF-I commanders in obtaining documentation to substantiate for insurance purposes trucks and cargo lost in convoy. ¶5. (C) Action request: We hope to continue to pursue ref b instructions for setting up trucker security talks. Both the Turks and the Iraqis are lining up their delegations, and the Turks have a good idea of the issues they want to raise. Per ref b, we request Washington and Baghdad (including MNF-I) identify the U.S. military and civilian representatives who will participate in the discussions and address the issues in para. four. ¶6. (C) Action request, cont.: The agenda for border security/PKK talks was set out clearly in ref c, chiefly focusing on steps the IIG could take in this area. We also request that Washington and Baghdad consider who will represent the USG at these talks. ¶7. Baghdad minimize considered. EDELMAN