RESPONSE TO REQUEST FOR INFORMATION ON SECURITY

UNCLAS BAMAKO 000748 SIPDIS DEPT FOR PM AND AF/W E.O. 12958: N/A TAGS: PGOV PREL MARR PINS ML SUBJECT: RESPONSE TO REQUEST FOR INFORMATION ON SECURITY DIALOGUES REF: STATE 112900 1.(SBU) Embassy Bamako is happy to respond to the Department's request for information on security dialogues. The information in this cable has been relayed to the PolMil Officer by the Defense Attache Office. 2.(SBU) The United States does not have an established security dialogue with Mali, as that terminology appears to be used in reftel, including but not limited to strategic dialogues, security dialogues, pol-mil working groups, security consultative mechanisms, military consultative discussions, or high-level defense engagements. 3.(SBU) DAO is, however, in nearly continuous communication with the Malian Ministry of Defense, to coordinate training and military assistance programs offered to Mali by the United States. A large number of Malian officers have attended Senior Seminars offered by the Africa Center for Strategic Studies (ACSS). VIP visits by Department of Defense officials are frequent, including a July 2009 trip to Mali by the Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for African Affairs. MILOVANOVIC