ESTABLISHING A CONSULATE IN MOMBASA

UNCLAS NAIROBI 005217 SIPDIS SIPDIS DEPT FOR AF/E, AF/EX, L/AF, AF/EX/PMO WESTON, OBO/AM E.O. 12958: N/A TAGS: KE PGOV SUBJECT: ESTABLISHING A CONSULATE IN MOMBASA REF: STATE 188051 ¶1. (U) This is an action request. See para 3. ¶2. (U) PolCouns has informally discussed establishing a consulate in Mombasa with the Protocol Office of MFA. MFA Protocol reviewed draft dipnote on the subject (see para 3 below) and communicated agreement in principle. MFA Protocol noted that the GoK maintains a consulate in Los Angeles and intends to apply for USG approval to open a consulate in New York City. They also noted the previous existence of an American Consulate in Mombasa. Formal approval will require a cabinet decision, but MFA Protocol indicated this was a formality. ¶3. (U) Action request: Post requests Department clearance on the following diplomatic note. Begin text of note: Complimentary opening... ..and has the honor to refer to diplomatic note 168/279/002A. Based on this agreement, the Embassy has the honor to request the Republic of Kenya's concurrence in the opening of an American Consulate in Mombasa. The American Consulate we propose would focus on representation, increasing the commercial and cultural ties between our two countries and providing emergency services as needed to U.S. citizens. Our request to open this consulate recognizes the role of Mombasa as the commercial and transportation hub of East Africa and an increasingly popular destination for American tourists. We kindly request that the Ministry formally communicate to provincial, municipal and other authorities in Mombasa our intent to establish this consulate. We will consult with the Ministry and local officials as we further develop our plans and determine staffing levels and an opening date. The Embassy requests that the planned opening of the consulate not be publicly divulged at this time. The Embassy will coordinate with the Ministry on a joint announcement to be made early in 2007. Complimentary closing... ¶4. (U) Post thanks Washington offices for their prompt response to this message. ¶5. (U) We will begin researching residential and commercial lease costs the week of 11 December and communicate results to AF/EX/PMO. RANNEBERGER