DRAFT LETTER ON POLICE PROGRAM GIVEN TO EGYPTIANS

C O N F I D E N T I A L CAIRO 000086 SIPDIS NEA/ELA AND INL/AAE E.O. 12958: DECL: 01/15/2019 TAGS: PREL PGOV EG SUBJECT: DRAFT LETTER ON POLICE PROGRAM GIVEN TO EGYPTIANS REF: JOHNSON-SCOBEY E-MAILS Classified By: DCM Matthew H. Tueller for reason 1.4 (d) ¶1. (C) In a January 14 meeting, DCM passed to General Ali Hegazy, Director of the International Relations Department of the State Security Investigations Service (SSIS),a copy of the draft letter to the GOE regarding the continuation of a USG-funded community policing training program for the Egyptian police (ref e-mails). Hegazy was puzzled as to why a letter was necessary now, given that the program had already been operational for well over a year. He noted that he was concerned by two elements - the principle of needing to exchange letters, and the actual content of the U.S. letter. Hegazy stressed his appreciation of U.S. support, and highlighted his enthusiasm for the program: "We are keen to continue the program, and develop and upgrade it. This is a basic principle for us." Hegazy pledged to study the letter, and then give us his thoughts on it, and the way ahead. He inquired as to what would happen if SSIS could not agree to an exchange of letters, and the DCM answered that perhaps an alternative channel - such as an exchange of diplomatic notes - could be utilized. ¶2. (C) Comment: While Hegazy was cordial, it is clear that getting GOE agreement to the current text of the letter will be difficult. We anticipate a lengthy and challenging set of discussions. Current funding for the program is due to finish in June 2009. SCOBEY