TURKEY OPPOSES ICAO PLANS TO TRANSFER SAR

UNCLAS STATE 016583 SIPDIS SENSITIVE SIPDIS MONTREAL FOR USICAO FAA FOR API E.O. 12958: N/A TAGS: EAIR ICAO AORC PREL CY TU SUBJECT: TURKEY OPPOSES ICAO PLANS TO TRANSFER SAR RESPONSIBILITIES TO CYPRIOTS: U.S. RESPONSE REF: ANKARA 279 ¶1. (U) This cable responds to Ref A's request for instructions. ¶2. (SBU) Ref A sought Department instructions for responding to the Turkish government's request for U.S. support in opposing plans of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) to transfer Search and Rescue (SAR) responsibilities in the Cyprus area from a UK Rescue Coordination Center (RCC) to the Cypriot Government's RCC. Embassy Ankara is instructed to advise GOT MFA civil aviation officials that the USG will not be able to support their opposition to ICAO's transfer of responsibility. BACKGROUND -------------- ¶3. (U) ICAO makes operational decisions based on efficiency, safety, and security, while avoiding judgments on sovereignty and political issues. Cyprus is an ICAO Contracting State with current responsibility for SAR in the surrounding airspace. The area administered by Turkish Cypriots in Cyprus does not have standing in ICAO. Furthermore, the USG recognizes the Republic of Cyprus and not the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus. RICE