FM QIRBI WANTS TO OVERCOME OBSTACLES TO EXPAND

S E C R E T SECTION 01 OF 02 SANAA 002556 SIPDIS NSC (HEFFERNAN),EB/ESC/ESP(GGLASS),S/CT (TNAVRATIL), NEA/ARP, IO/PHO(APEREZ),TREASURY (JZARATE) AND OFAC DIRECTOR (RNEWCOMB) E.O. 12958: DECL: 10/04/2014 TAGS: PREL PTER PGOV EFIN YM DEMOCRATIC REFORM COUNTER TERRORISM TERFIN SUBJECT: FM QIRBI WANTS TO OVERCOME OBSTACLES TO EXPAND U.S.-YEMEN BILATERAL RELATIONSHIP REF: A. SECSTATE 207290 ¶B. SANAA 415 Classified By: Ambassador Krajeski for reasons 1.5 (b and d) ¶1. (S) Summary: In a follow-on meeting from his recent visit to UNGA, FM Qirbi raised questions on BMENA process with Ambassador on October 4. Noting successful and positive meetings in Washington, Qirbi promised to look into recent irritants in the bilateral relationship including recent setbacks over intelligence sharing agreements. Ambassador broached ROYG obligations under UNSCR 1526 to freeze Zindani's assets. Qirbi replied that he was still waiting for proof from Washington of Zindani's guilt. End Summary. -------------- -- BMENA - Process Should Reflect Democratic Goals -------------- -- ¶2. (C) Expressing surprise over the process that chose Morocco as the next Forum for the Future host, Qirbi emphasized that substance was still the most important issue at hand for the Broader Middle East and North Africa Initiative (BMENA). Nevertheless, Qirbi complained that the way the decision was made and presented to the Middle East Ministers (i.e. as a fait accompli) creates the "wrong impression among countries that were present at the outset." Qirbi pointed out that Morocco was among several nations who did not attend the Sea Island conference and suggested that a Forum for the Future based on democracy should have clear and transparent processes. The Morocco decision, Qirbi added, puts Morocco in a difficult position and raises questions over how they will promote the USG agenda. Ambassador agreed with Qirbi that substance is more important than location and underscored that Washington considers Yemen a regional leader in promoting reform. -------------- Ambassador Calls for Consistent Cooperation -------------- ¶3. (S) Qirbi said that his New York meetings, particularly with U/S Grossman were "very positive." Ambassador took the opportunity to reply to Qirbi's request for expanded USG assistance for Yemen, ref A. Highlighting progress in security, human rights and democracy, Ambassador said the Yemen-U.S. relationship now rests on a solid foundation. But, Ambassador continued, some smaller issues that have great resonance in Washington are complicating the overall relationship. Ambassador cited recent hiccups over requests to expand intelligence-sharing as an example. After al-Houthi was captured, Ambassador said President Saleh, MoD Chief of Staff Qassimi, and Minister of Interior Alimi all agreed to maintain the request for expanded intelligence sharing. In response, USG proposed U-2 mission to gather intelligence requested by ROYG. This mission was rejected by MoD,s General Gassemi. Such a response, Ambassador said, generated some in Washington to question the overall relationship. Responding that he was "surprised by changes in attitude," Qirbi promised to look into the matter further and to overcome "little obstacles" in the relationship. ¶4. (C) Raising recent problems between Yemeni ministries resulting in the cancellation of US Mission in-country travel, Ambassador requested more coordination to ensure that USG teams did not waste time and money waiting for permits. Qirbi asked that Post consult with the relevant governors and appropriate ministries to ensure coordination, but added that he would also talk to the Ministry of Interior about these issues. -------------- ROYG still not moving on Zindani -------------- ¶5. (S) Ambassador inquired if the ROYG had taken any action from the March designation of Zindani under UNSCR 1526 as a terrorist financier. Qirbi replied that Zindani and his associates no longer travel outside of Yemen out of fear that they may be arrested. Recalling earlier requests for complete evidence on Zindani's financial activities (ref B), Qirbi said that until the ROYG receives a full explanation of his guilt, they will not take action. Ambassador closed by raising Yemen's UN obligation to freeze Zindani,s assets. -------------- Comment -------------- ¶6. (S) FM Qirbi was clearly pleased with his Washington meetings and appeared willing to consider Ambassador's requests for more consistency in the relationship. We will continue to push this theme with key ROYG officials, including Saleh. While the issue of Zindani is contentious, the ROYG believes the ball is in our court and will likely not take any action to freeze his assets in the near term. KRAJESKI