THANK YOU TO EMBASSY DAMASCUS

UNCLAS STATE 024319 SENSITIVE SIPDIS FROM AA/S FELTMAN TO CDA CONNELLY E.O. 12958: N/A TAGS: APER AMGT SY SUBJECT: THANK YOU TO EMBASSY DAMASCUS Maura, I want to thank you and the entire Mission for the outstanding support provided during my travel to Damascus. This visit, a significant milestone in U.S.-Syria relations, was undoubtedly a team effort and Embassy Damascus, through its hard-work and professionalism, exemplified the best of the State Department. I would like to commend the entire Management and RSO teams for their work to support our schedule. Specifically, Dan Chase, John Pigman, and Rashad Mansour who ensured our protection on the ground, and Susan Walsh, Khaled Hajj-Mousa, Antoun Nahas, and Moaz Mansour who facilitated the logistics of our visit. To the public affairs office, specifically Kathy Van de Vate, Tracy Roberts and Wael Sawah, I must note that rarely does travel to one country make such news. Their efforts to develop and implement a press strategy ensured our message reached both international and domestic media. To Tim Pounds, Russ Comeau and Andrew Boyd, thank you for the on-the-ground context and thorough reporting. To Tim specifically, it was a long meeting. Thank you for the comprehensive cables. (Did we set a record, Tim, for most number of cables out of a single meeting?). I must commend Andy Abell whose efforts as control officer were truly exceptional. His departure from Damascus this summer will be our gain, and I look forward to working with him more closely when he becomes Syria Desk Officer. To all those in the Mission - and I know there were many - whose tireless, behind-the-scenes efforts made this trip a resounding success, please convey my sincerest appreciation. Lastly, to you and George, thank you both. The trip's success is a testimony to your leadership and dedication. I understand the toll these types of visits have on an embassy. I appreciate your efforts all the more after seeing Post's inadequate facilities. I assure you that all of us in Washington are committed to making progress on a new embassy compound, and are prepared to support you in any way we can. Maura, also thank you for providing my accommodations. Best, Jeff CLINTON