US embassy cable - 05COLOMBO278

UNCLAS COLOMBO 000278 
 
SIPDIS 
 
DEPARTMENT PLEASE PASS TO DHS/CBP JGRIFFITHS; NEW DELHI FOR 
G. RISING 
 
E.O. 12958:  N/A 
TAGS: AMGT, EWWT, ACOA, ASEC, ETRD, ECON, ETTC, KSTC, PTER, PHSAPREL CE 
SUBJECT:  GSL REQUEST FOR NII/CSI EQUIPMENT LOAN 
 
1.  Post has received a request from GSL Presidential 
Advisor Mano Tittawella and Finance Secretary PB Jayasundera 
to expedite the loan of CSI-related non-intrusive inspection 
equipment, in an effort to expedite scanning of inbound 
cargo for humanitarian efforts.  (Note:  Sri Lanka has a 
three-year old ceasefire with the terrorist Liberation 
Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) and there are some concerns 
that illicit items might be smuggled in under the guise of 
relief operations.  End note.)  The equipment would also be 
used to facilitate establishment of a CSI port at the Port 
of Colombo.  The GSL is currently engaged in a tender 
process for the procurement of NII equipment.  Post 
appreciates DHS/CBP assistance with this request.  In 
consultation with Sri Lankan Customs, they have determined 
that sea freight is acceptable, given the time needed to 
make logistics arrangements at the port.  If DHS has means 
to arrange airlift, however, we believe we could arrange to 
expedite other matters. 
 
2.  Post will obtain a copy of the GSL's approved MOU for 
the equipment and forward to CBP for final approval.  If CBP 
is required to sign, we recommend that CBP consider 
arranging for the Sri Lankan Ambassador in Washington to 
sign on behalf of the GSL.  We also urge CBP to arrange for 
a visit by appropriate technical and training personnel to 
ensure smooth preparation, installation, and operation of 
the equipment. 
 
 
LUNSTEAD