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