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