GOM INTERESTED IN OPEN SKIES AGREEMENT

UNCLAS LILONGWE 000662 SIPDIS DEPT FOR EB/TRA/AN (BGRIMM) DEPT FOR EB/TRA/OTP (ARADETSKY) E.O. 12958: N/A TAGS: EAIR PREL PBTS PTER PINS MI SUBJECT: GOM INTERESTED IN OPEN SKIES AGREEMENT REF: 7/13/04 TELCON GRIMM/LORD ¶1. (SBU) Minister of Transport and Public Works Henry Mussa expressed interest in learning more about the USG's Open Skies Agreement during a July 16 introductory call with the Charge. Mussa was interested to learn of the code-sharing benefits the agreement offers and to hear that several of Malawi's SADC neighbors had signed such agreements. ¶2. (SBU) Noting the increased need for security in international airports, Mussa also expressed a keen desire to bolster the GOM's international airport security protocols through technical support and equipment upgrade. Mussa also stated the Ministry's need for technical support in other areas, especially rail lines and roadways. COMMENT -------------- ¶3. (SBU) Post plans to act swiftly on providing information about the Open Skies Agreement while it has the attention of the newly-appointed and very engaged Minister. RASPOLIC