RECOVERING MANPADS IN THE HORN: VIEW FROM DJIBOUTI

S E C R E T DJIBOUTI 001472 SIPDIS NOFORN SIPDIS STATE FOR PM/WRA, AF/E, DS/DSS/ITA, INR, S/CT E.O. 12958: DECL: 12/17/2022 TAGS: PARM MARR MASS ASEC PTER PINR DJ SUBJECT: RECOVERING MANPADS IN THE HORN: VIEW FROM DJIBOUTI REF: A. A) SECSTATE 156001 ¶B. B) DJIBOUTI 1393 Classified By: Ambassador W. Stuart Symington for reasons 1.4 (b) (c) ( d) ¶1. (S/NF) We reviewed the proposed action plan (ref A) in light of our recent experience (ref B). Based on that review and experience, sustained attention to the manpad threat is a critical element of our CT efforts. The best strategy in Djibouti is to ensure continued close cooperation with Djiboutian officials. We think the threat here is less likely to come from manpads stored in Djibouti, than manpads stored in neighboring countries, or those introduced to Djibouti now -- perhaps en route to another neighbor. Our recent effort proved GODJ willingness to help interdict manpads; it also significantly increased key Djiboutians' awareness of the manpad danger in the region. Both results were important. The GODJ continues to show strong interest in working against the manpad threat. Our experience also showed the value to the USG of having CJTF-HOA's EOD capability here. That team gives us the organic capacity to handle and dispose of manpads. ¶2. (S/NF) We need a regional strategic focus on manpad interdiction and we need tactics tailored to each country. Djibouti is a goldfish bowl. We will work with our counterparts and avoid any visible, unilateral activity that is not coordinated with them. We do not see a benefit in launching a public awareness campaign here; however, we might focus our efforts on training border or port officials. We might also work to strengthen legal protections without linking those reforms to manpads. We think it is a good idea to have funds available to compensate those who provide us with manpads or information leading to them, but we suggest couching any such payment as a show of thanks for cooperation against terror or crime in general, not as a per manpad, fixed price "quid pro quo". ¶3. (S/NF) Djibouti is a small, willing, and very effective ally. We attach a special urgency to ensuring that the USG acts as a single, cohesive entity on sensitive issues. We must coordinate all USG manpad initiatives in advance with the country team. To keep scoring successes here, we must ensure we cooperate as closely within the USG as we do with the GODJ. SYMINGTON