(S) SHIPMENT BY TAIWAN FIRM OF CARBON FIBERS TO

S E C R E T STATE 080505 SIPDIS E.O. 12958: DECL: 08/03/2034 TAGS: MTCRE PARM PREL MNUC ETTC KSCA TW SY SUBJECT: (S) SHIPMENT BY TAIWAN FIRM OF CARBON FIBERS TO SYRIAN ENTITY OF PROLIFERATION CONCERN Classified By: ISN/MTR DIRECTOR PAM DURHAM, REASON: 1.4 (C) ¶1. (U) This is an action request. AIT Taipei, please see paragraph 3. ¶2. (S) Background: The United States has information that in August 2007, the Taiwan firm Jinsor-Tech Industrial Corporation had exported several types of carbon fabric to the Syrian company Industrial Solutions. Upon learning that these materials were controlled under Taiwan's export control regulations, Jinsor-Tech Industrial Corporation requested Industrial Solutions return the materials, which can be used to produce heat resistant structures. We are concerned that this material will be diverted to support Syria's ballistic missile development efforts and want to ask Taiwan authorities to determine whether the carbon fabric was returned to Taiwan. ¶3. (S) Action Request: Request AIT Taipei approach appropriate Taiwan authorities to deliver talking points/non-paper in paragraph 4 below and report response. Talking points also may be provided as a non-paper. ¶4. (S) Begin talking points/non-paper: (SECRET//REL TAIWAN) --We would like to raise with you a matter of potential proliferation concern and request your assistance in investigating this activity. --The United States has information that in August 2007, the Taiwan firm Jinsor-Tech Industrial Corporation had exported several types of carbon fabric to the Syrian company Industrial Solutions. --We also understand that, upon learning that these materials were controlled under Taiwan's export control regulations, Jinsor-Tech Industrial Corporation requested Industrial Solutions return the materials. --We are concerned that this material, which can be used to produce heat resistant structures, will be diverted to support Syria's ballistic missile development efforts. --We applaud Jinsor Tech Industrial Corporation's efforts to arrange the return of this cargo and would appreciate your confirmation that the carbon fabric was returned to Taiwan. --We look forward to continued cooperation on export control and nonproliferation issues. End talking points/non-paper ¶5. (U) Washington POC is ISN/MTR Mike Kennedy (Phone: 202-647-3176). Please slug any reporting on this issue for ISN/MTR and EAP/TC. CLINTON