GSL REQUEST FOR NII/CSI EQUIPMENT LOAN

UNCLAS COLOMBO 000278 SIPDIS DEPARTMENT PLEASE PASS TO DHS/CBP JGRIFFITHS; NEW DELHI FOR ¶G. RISING E.O. 12958: N/A TAGS: AMGT EWWT ACOA ASEC ETRD ECON ETTC KSTC PTER PHSAPREL CE SUBJECT: GSL REQUEST FOR NII/CSI EQUIPMENT LOAN ¶1. Post has received a request from GSL Presidential Advisor Mano Tittawella and Finance Secretary PB Jayasundera to expedite the loan of CSI-related non-intrusive inspection equipment, in an effort to expedite scanning of inbound cargo for humanitarian efforts. (Note: Sri Lanka has a three-year old ceasefire with the terrorist Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) and there are some concerns that illicit items might be smuggled in under the guise of relief operations. End note.) The equipment would also be used to facilitate establishment of a CSI port at the Port of Colombo. The GSL is currently engaged in a tender process for the procurement of NII equipment. Post appreciates DHS/CBP assistance with this request. In consultation with Sri Lankan Customs, they have determined that sea freight is acceptable, given the time needed to make logistics arrangements at the port. If DHS has means to arrange airlift, however, we believe we could arrange to expedite other matters. ¶2. Post will obtain a copy of the GSL's approved MOU for the equipment and forward to CBP for final approval. If CBP is required to sign, we recommend that CBP consider arranging for the Sri Lankan Ambassador in Washington to sign on behalf of the GSL. We also urge CBP to arrange for a visit by appropriate technical and training personnel to ensure smooth preparation, installation, and operation of the equipment. LUNSTEAD