PRT ROLLOUT IN KIRKUK: LOCAL LEADERS FOCUS ON

C O N F I D E N T I A L BAGHDAD 004446

SIPDIS

E.O. 12958: DECL: 10/30/2015
TAGS: PGOV KDEM IZ
SUBJECT: PRT ROLLOUT IN KIRKUK: LOCAL LEADERS FOCUS ON
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

Classified By: Acting Political Counselor Michael

J. Adler for Reasons 1.4 (b) and (d).


1. (C) Embassy and MNF-I personnel unveiled the
concept of the Provincial Reconstruction Team (PRT) on
October 24 to the Kirkuk Governor, Provincial Council
Chairman and members of the Provincial Reconstruction
and Development Committee (PRDC). Although thankful
for the support, Kirkuk leaders focused on the need
for additional resources to complete high priority
projects.


2. (C) IRMO Director Ambassador Dan Speckhard stressed
that the USG wants to intensify its engagement with
the provinces, with the PRTs as the principal
mechanism. This integrated effort with MNF-I aims to
increase the capacity of the provincial and local
governments.


3. (C) Kirkuk Governor Abdurrahman Mustafa and
Provincial Council Chairman Rizgar Ali both expressed
their appreciation for USG support, but stressed that
this was not enough. The governor added that
democracy itself is not sufficient for the citizens of
Kirkuk; they need services. They highlighted the
shortage of electricity, water/sanitation, fuels, and
medicines, as well as problems with the central
government in Baghdad.


4. (C) Comment. While Kirkuk provincial officials
appreciate the additional technical assistance and
capacity building that the PRT will provide, they will
remain focused on funding for infrastructure projects
that can deliver electricity, water, and fuels.


Satterfield