S23B-04 IRANIAN RESEARCHER SEEKING DUAL USE

S E C R E T PARIS 003282

SIPDIS

NOFORN

STATE FOR ISN/CB

E.O. 12958: DECL: 01/31/2036
TAGS: PARM PREL ETTC FR CBW
SUBJECT: S23B-04 IRANIAN RESEARCHER SEEKING DUAL USE
RESEARCH ASSISTANCE ON AG-CONTROLLED TOXINS: FRENCH DELIVER
RESPONSE

REF: STATE 09468

Classified By: ESTH/NP COUNSELOR ROBERT DRY. REASON: 1.4 (B, D, H)


1. (S/NF) ESTH officer received non-paper from MFA in
response to request contained in REFTEL. Regarding concerns
about an Iranian scientist seeking dual-use research
assistance from AG countries on AG-controlled toxins, the GOF
paper provides five points (roughly translated):

--First, the study mentioned in the U.S. non-paper is
fundamental medical research;

--Second, the intern worked only on the construction of
plasmides and recombinant, non-toxic proteins in E.coli
systems. Laboratory work took place after the intern left
Pasteur. Finally, the intern did not work on botulinum
toxins, as mentioned in the publication;

--Third, no exchange of sensitive material has taken place
with the Institut Pasteur in Iran;

--Fourth, the intern only worked on classic biology
techniques, already largely accessible; and

--Fifth, the intern was already known to the intelligence
services during that time.

Finally, the GOF wants to convey that the French intelligence
services are sensitive to the need to protect scientific and
techological knowledge and plan to make a presentation to
this effect at the next session of the Australia Group.


2. (U) If the Department seeks a copy of the classified
French nonpaper, please provide secure fax number to ESTH
Officer Kristen Katzer at katzerkm@state.gov.

Please visit Paris' Classified Website at:
http://www.state.sgov.gov/p/eur/paris/index.c fm

Stapleton