FUNDING FOR UN COMPOUND IN IRAQ

C O N F I D E N T I A L STATE 157244 SIPDIS SIPDIS E.O. 12958: DECL: 11/15/2017 TAGS: IZ UNGA UNSC SUBJECT: FUNDING FOR UN COMPOUND IN IRAQ Classified By: NEA/I-POL, Chat Blakeman, Reasons: 1.4 B and D ¶1. This is an action request. Please see paragraphs 3 and 4 BACKGROUND ¶2. The UN has been engaged in finding a long-term compound for the United Nations Assistance Mission to Iraq (UNAMI) since 2004, when UNAMI restarted operations in Baghdad. The compound is intended to serve as the headquarters, offices, and residence of the UN and its specialized agencies. After discussions with MNF-I, CPA/Embassy Baghdad and the Iraqi government, the UN was given the site of the old U.S. Embassy to build its compound. At present, construction cost is estimated at 190 million dollars, which includes tearing down the old U.S. Embassy and building a new, secure facility on site. The compound's price tag is likely to meet resistance from UN Member States. This resistance could significantly delay action on the project, if not undermine the prospect of obtaining UN funding for the project. CONSULT WITH DE MISTURA ¶3. Embassy Baghdad should consult with SRSG De Mistura at its earliest opportunity about the new UNAMI compound, including whether it is worth approaching the GOI once more about a less expensive, alternative site and, if not, exploring with GOI what financial contribution it is prepared to make toward the construction of the new compound. When approaching the Iraqis, post should note the benefits that will accrue to Iraq from a full-fledged UN presence and point to the precedent of other oil-rich countries, such as Kuwait, which have financed UN activities within their borders. As appropriate, post should coordinate these discussions with the UK Embassy. UNAMI COMPOUND IN FIFTH COMMITTEE ¶4. USUN is requested to try to further delay the introduction in the Fifth Committee of the proposal to fund the construction of the UNAMI compound until a positive resolution is developed that details how GOI and others can help with funding. RICE