Cablegate: Goc Supports All U.S. Cites Proposals Except Bobcats

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RR RUEHWEB

DE RUEHBO #0343 0561521
ZNR UUUUU ZZH
R 251518Z FEB 10
FM AMEMBASSY BOGOTA
TO RUEHC/SECSTATE WASHDC 3034
INFO RUCPDOC/DEPT OF COMMERCE WASHINGTON DC
RUEHBO/AMEMBASSY BOGOTA

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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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