CENTCOM CONFERENCE PROPOSED LOCATION

C O N F I D E N T I A L STATE 131586 SIPDIS SIPDIS E.O. 12958: DECL: 09/18/2032 TAGS: PREL MARR MOPS IZ BA SUBJECT: CENTCOM CONFERENCE PROPOSED LOCATION Classified By: NEA DAS LARRY BUTLER FOR REASONS 1.4 A, B, AND D SUMMARY -------------- ¶1. (C) CENTCOM is proposing Bahrain as the location for the next Iraq Coalition Conference at the end of October. Bahrain is the preferred site due to its central location in the Middle East, NAVCENT's facilities, and the country's ability to support the event with increased force protection. End Summary. OBJECTIVE -------------- ¶2. (C) Apprise GOB of CENTCOM's desire to host in Bahrain next month's Iraq Coalition Conference (Oct 29-31 are the nominal dates),and seek GOB agreement to support as appropriate. REPORTING DEADLINE -------------- ¶3. (U) Embassy should report results of efforts by cable to NEA before September 24. BACKGROUND -------------- ¶4. (U) CENTCOM conducts the Iraq coalition conference twice a year and prefers to rotate the high visibility event among different capitals. The two previous conferences were held in Warsaw, Poland and Tampa (MacDill AFB). While the focus of the conference will be contributions to Iraq's security and stability, the close relationship between the security environment and Iraq's political and economic development suggest coordination at the Mil-Mil and Pol-Mil levels will provide the best opportunity for Coalition success. POINT OF CONTACT -------------- ¶5. (U) Contact Bill Jensen (NEA-IPM) at (202)647-0560 or jensenwj(at)state.sgov.gov for any necessary further background information or argumentation to meet our objectives. RICE