EXBS: TURKISH COMMENTS TO LATEST NP COOPERATION

UNCLAS ANKARA 002194

SIPDIS

E.O. 12958: N/A
TAGS: ETTC KSTC PARM PREL TU US
SUBJECT: EXBS: TURKISH COMMENTS TO LATEST NP COOPERATION
AND ASSITANCE AGREEMENT

REF: STATE 26836


1. This is an action request- see para 4.


2. We have discussed the latest U.S. draft NP Cooperation
and Assistance Agreement with MFA DDG for Arms Control and
Disarmament Bulent Meric and other MFA representatives on
several occasions since originally delivering it to the GOT
in February, 2005. Throughout March, MFA coordinated the
text with other GOT ministries. On April 6, MFA provided us
with comments on the latest draft; on April 18, MFA provided
us with a Turkish translation of the latest draft that we
faxed to NP/ECC that afternoon.


3. The following are the changes requested by the GOT to the
text in reftel. (We sent a word document of the text with
these changes by email to NP/ECC on April 11):

a. Introduction paragraph 4- line 3 insert the term
"software" after the term database.

b. Part II- line 1 insert the term "software" after the term
database.

c. Part IV- line 1 insert the term "software" after the term
database.


4. Action request: We request the Department review both
the English and Turkish version of the Agreement and advise
whether the USG will accept the Agreement as presented. If
both versions of the Agreement are acceptable, we request
authorization to sign the Agreement. Note: Following the
signing by both governments, the GOT will need to submit the
Agreement to their parliament for final approval.


5. Comment: Both Governments have worked hard on this
agreement for over two years. Signing of this agreement
would mark a significant step in the EXBS program and allow
an increase in the cooperation efforts in the EXBS program.
Evaluation and reply as soon as possible would be appreciated.

EDELMAN