INTERNATIONAL COORDINATION AND OUTREACH

UNCLAS ATHENS 000799

SIPDIS

STATE FOR EB/DORIS HAYWOOD AND CLAY DIAMOND

USEU FOR USTR/CHRIS WILSON

USDOC FOR DONALD CALVERT

E.O. 12356: N/A
TAGS: EWWT ECON ETRD KSTC PARM PHSA PREL PTER ASEC EU GR IASA
SUBJECT: INTERNATIONAL COORDINATION AND OUTREACH
ON MARITIME SECURITY - GREECE

REF: STATE 38874


1. This is in response to reftel invitation of post's
input on Greece's adoption of maritime security measures in
accordance to the President's Maritime Security Policy.


2. Greece, as host of the 2004 Summer Olympics, has
expedited implementation of many security plans including
maritime security initiatives. Based on Post's experience,
coordination, both within the GoG and with NGO's has been
smooth, although in some cases complicated by a cumbersome
bureaucracy. In many cases, Greece's adherence to its EU
obligations has also expedited adoption of maritime
security measures broadly adopted by the EU, i.e. the
agreement for Greece's participation in the CSI program was
signed in Brussels as a U.S./EU agreement.


3. Although the Greeks have been quick to respond to
security proposals before and during the Olympics, the
country's current shaky financial situation may impede the
implementation of these initiatives in the future. An
example is Greece's ongoing delay in purchasing a mobile
screening unit for its CSI program so that the U.S.-owned
machine, loaned to Greece for the Olympics, can be
returned. Seven months after the 2004 Summer Olympics, a
tender for the purchase has not yet been issued.


4. Besides the private sector's response to maritime
security measures (Greek ships comply with the 96-hour ANOA
system and Greek companies have agreed with U.S. importers
to provide security information under the C-TPAT
initiative) the Greek state currently participates in CSI,
the Proliferation Security (PSI) and the Megaports
Initiatives. As a member of the EU, Greece has also
adopted the ISPS Code.


5. Responsibility for maritime security issues resides in
different portfolios. The DHS/Immigration and Customs
Enforcement Attach is responsible for CSI implementation,
POL/MIL officer coordinates PSI affairs, and ECON Deputy
Counselor handles the Megaports Initiative and, in
cooperation with the U.S. Coast Guard regional
representative for Europe, covers ISPS Code concerns. Ad
hoc meetings with all USG players on maritime security
issues are convened as necessary.

RIES