Identifier | Created | Classification | Origin |
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08STATE14577 | 2008-02-12 19:58:00 | CONFIDENTIAL | Secretary of State |
1. (U) This is an action request. Please see paragraph three. SUMMARY -------------------------- 2. (C) Summary: Multi-National Force - Iraq and Embassy Baghdad have proposed Abu Dhabi as the location for the next Iraq Coalition Conference which will convene within the first two weeks of May, 2008. Abu Dhabi is the preferred site due to its central location in the Middle East, extensive airline connections, and conference facilities. The Coalition Conference presents an opportunity to raise economic issues as a way to encourage Coalition countries to increase their economic involvement in and support for Iraq. End Summary. OBJECTIVE -------------------------- 3. (C) Drawing on the above background, apprise UAE of MNF-I's and Embassy Baghdad,s desire to hold the next Iraq Coalition Conference in Abu Dhabi sometime in late May (likely to be May 26-28), and seek UAE concurrence. BACKGROUND -------------------------- 4. (U) MNF-I hosts a Coalition Conference twice a year, in order to meet with Coalition partners in Iraq to review the past six month's events as well as look ahead. The three previous conferences were held in Manama, Warsaw and Tampa (MacDill AFB). This two-day conference brings together senior military leaders and appropriate civilian officials from the 25 Iraq Coalition contributing countries. Typically, countries in the region are invited to send observers. 5. (U) Given its location, extensive airline connections and conference and accommodation facilities, Abu Dhabi would be an ideal venue for the next conference. 6. (SBU) One of the core themes of the next conference will be economic opportunities in Iraq. We believe that with the improved security situation in Iraq, there will be more opportunities for investment and commercial activity. Embassy Baghdad and/or NEA/I will provide the form and substance of the economic component of the conference. REPORTING DEADLINE -------------------------- 7. (U) Embassy should report results of efforts by cable before February 22. POINT OF CONTACT -------------------------- 8. (U) Contact David Capezza (NEA/I-PM) at (202)647-6350 or capezzadm@state.sgov.gov for further background information if needed. RICE |