EXBS; TURKISH COMMENTS TO LATEST NP COOPERATION

UNCLAS ANKARA 000689 SIPDIS E.O. 12958: N/A TAGS: ETTC KSTC PARM PREL TU US SUBJECT: EXBS; TURKISH COMMENTS TO LATEST NP COOPERATION AND ASSISTANCE AGREEMENT DRAFT REF: SECSTATE 270520 ¶1. This is an action request- see para 4. ¶2. We have discussed the latest U.S. draft NP Cooperation and Assistance Agreement (ref A) with MFA Arms Control and Disarmament Department Head Sabri Ergen and other MFA representatives on several occasions since originally delivering it to the GOT on December 21. In early January, MFA distributed the latest draft agreement to other GOT ministries for comments. On February 4, MFA provided us with comments on the latest draft. ¶3. The following are the changes requested by the GOT to the text in refcable. (We sent a word document of the text with these changes by email to NP/ECC.): a. Part II- line 3 insert "special" before consumption tax b. Part II- line 4 insert "(including stamp duty)" after or duties c. Part V Paragraph (c)- line 5 insert ", the Latter paying the relevant expenses for this return." after the United States. ¶4. Action request: We request the Department review and advise whether the USG will accept the suggested changes to the NP Cooperation Agreement. If these changes are acceptable, we will request a Turkish language copy of the Agreement for review. Note: Following the signing by both governments, the GOT will need to submit the Agreement to their parliament for final approval. ¶5. Comment: The GOT comments appear intended to make the Agreement accurately reflect the types of taxes and duties that are in Turkey. The GOT also appears to want to avoid any financial liability for the return of equipment provided by the United States in this agreement. Both Governments have worked hard on this agreement for over two years and the continuation of significant parts of the EXBS program depend on the completion of this agreement. Quick evaluation and reply would be appreciated. EDELMAN