GOC SUPPORTS ALL U.S. CITES PROPOSALS EXCEPT BOBCATS

UNCLAS BOGOTA 000343 SIPDIS LLOYD GAMBLE OES/ENRC, NOAA E.O. 12958: N/A TAGS: SENV KSCA AORC UNEP CO SUBJECT: GOC SUPPORTS ALL U.S. CITES PROPOSALS EXCEPT BOBCATS REF: A) STATE 6668; B) BOGOTA 119 ¶1. (U) The GOC has consolidated its response to the U.S. CITES proposals in ref A. They will likely support all the proposals with the exception of the proposal to delist the lynx rufus from Appendix II. They are still considering the proposal due to concerns over how it would affect a rare Colombian look-alike cat. Below are the GOC's comments on each proposal except sharks, for which they have already indicated their support (ref B): Corals -------------- ¶2. (U) Colombia believes this is a positive initiative and notes that the proposal's arguments are supported by the evident need to better control the exploitation of this resource. Snakes -------------- ¶3. (U) The proposed workshop is an important initiative for evaluating the impact of commerce on snakes, especially in Asia where snake products are frequently sold. The decision to evaluate the current status of this species would undoubtedly work toward the objectives of the Convention. Lynx Rufus -------------- ¶4. (U) GOC officials noted that the information the U.S. has provided has been helpful. Colombia's technical experts are reviewing the identification guide, which they say has been very useful. However, the GOC is awaiting its experts' conclusions regarding the effectiveness of this tool in distinguishing between the lynx rufus and possible look-alike species. Polar Bear -------------- ¶5. (U) Colombia has no objection to exercising greater control over the trade of polar bear products and notes the necessity to protect it through all possible means. NICHOLS