REQUEST FOR APPROVAL OF UNITED STATES COAST GUARD

C O N F I D E N T I A L NICOSIA 000789 SIPDIS E.O. 12958: DECL: 12/22/2019 TAGS: CY MARR MOPS PGOV PREL PTER SUBJECT: REQUEST FOR APPROVAL OF UNITED STATES COAST GUARD ANTI-TERRORISM ENGAGEMENT Classified By: Charge d' Affaires Jonathan R. Cohen for reasons 1.4 B a nd D. ¶1. (SBU) ACTION REQUEST: Embassy Nicosia requests Department approval to initiate the following select Department of Defense (DoD) engagement activity with the Republic of Cyprus: United States Coast Guard (USCG) training on Waterside Port Security. This activity is clearly in the US national interest. ¶2. (C) Cyprus has routinely supported US Navy ship visits, the number of which has increased dramatically over the preceding three years. The Port of Limassol is currently undertaking a massive improvement project that will allow our aircraft carriers to berth "along side" rather than remaining out at anchorage. The island,s strategic location, its extensive connections to the maritime industry, and the seemingly increased frequency of international smuggling events requiring a Cypriot response (most recently the M/V Monchegorsk and previously the M/V Slavyanin and M/V Gregorio); all strongly argue for improving Cypriot capabilities in the areas of port security, antiterrorism and the counter-proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction. ¶3. (SBU) USCG Training on Waterside Port Security serves to continue gains made under the EXBS program and past USCG Mobile Training Teams in Cyprus. In particular, the proposed waterside port security training will complement and follow on to recent 2009 training in seaport security and antiterrorism by providing valuable hands-on experience in more effectively employing small boats to protect visiting USN warships. ¶4. (C) Embassy Nicosia believes this is an essential program that will enable the USG to engage with the ROC in a vital area without negatively impacting US regional bilateral relationships. It remains consistent with the legalities of US policy on Cyprus; is in direct support of vital US national interests, and supports the protection of our strategic interests on the island. It will not escalate the military capabilities of any armed force in Cyprus nor broach the political redlines of any regional neighbor. It is post,s judgment that engagement in this area does not threaten in any way the established peace and stability on the island or the recent progress towards reunification. COHEN