SSR DISCUSSION WITH HEAD OF DRC DESK AT BELGIAN MFA

C O N F I D E N T I A L KINSHASA 000294 SIPDIS E.O. 12958: DECL: 03/30/2019 TAGS: PGOV PREL MASS PHUM CG BE SUBJECT: SSR DISCUSSION WITH HEAD OF DRC DESK AT BELGIAN MFA REF: A) KINSHASA 285 B) USDEL SECTO 320234 Classified By: Ambassador William J. Garvelink for reasons 1.4 (b) and (d) ¶1. (SBU) PolOff met March 26 with the visiting Head of the Belgian MFA's DRC desk, Koen Adam, to discuss security sector reform (SSR) in the DRC. Adam emphasized that Belgium remains keenly interested in coordinating SSR efforts with the USG and other partners. PolOff gave Adam an overview of current USG projects in the military and police domains, and previewed for him as well our plans to train a light infantry battalion. We noted Leahy vetting requirements and the necessity to conclude an MOU with the GDRC in advance of any light infantry training. We highlighted as well the persistent problems we have had in receiving the lists of prospective trainees from the government in a timely fashion. Adam said the GOB appreciated our rigorous requirements, adding that Belgium intends to implement similar procedures to ensure the Congolese deliver on their end of the bargain. However, he conceded that GOB vetting would probably not be as stringent as USG vetting. Adam communicated the GOB's frustration with these issues, noting, for example, that it also does not receive lists of trainees in a timely fashion. ¶2. (SBU) Adam stressed that what the GOB believes is missing is a coordinated, strategic view of what SSR should look like, intimating that while the various projects of the donor states are well intended, an overarching strategy is nevertheless sorely needed. Moreover, the international community, Adam said, needs to have a stronger commitment and buy-in from the GDRC. He stressed again the GOB's desire to work with the USG and other partners on a strategic SSR vision for the DRC. We emphasized to him that such coordination with the GOB and all our partners in Kinshasa is at the top of our priority list. ¶3. (C) Comment: Adam's visit appears to be another part of intensifying USG-GOB contacts on SSR issues, including discussion between the Secretary and Foreign Minister De Gucht (ref B),as well as follow-up approaches on the part of the Belgian Embassy in Washington. We are actively following up here on this opening, working to arrange for what we hope will be the first of regular meetings between our respective DCMs and DATTs (ref A). End Comment. GARVELINK