Cablegate: Continental's Designation in Trouble

This record is a partial extract of the original cable. The full text of the original cable is not available.

UNCLAS ABUJA 001708

SIPDIS

SENSITIVE BUT UNCLASSIFIED

STATE PASS USTR, DOT FOR OIA/QMBODMAN

E.O. 12958: N/A
TAGS: EAIR NI
SUBJECT: CONTINENTAL'S DESIGNATION IN TROUBLE

REF: (A) ABUJA 1635, (B) ABUJA 1670

1. (SBU) On October 6 a well-placed source involved in
the direct talks that led to the creation of Virgin
Nigeria informed us that Minister of Aviation Yuguda
is of the view that the GON will not accept the USG's
designation of Continental to provide air service
between the United States and Nigeria under the Open
Skies Agreement.

2. (U) Comment. On September 21 we made the demarche
to MFA Acting Director for American Affairs, Bosah
Ilochi, designating Continental. We have yet to
receive a reply despite telephonic follow-up. End
comment.

3. (SBU) Recommendation. We suggest that
Continental's designation be an agenda item at the
November TIFA discussions in Abuja if Continental's
application has been rejected or remains pending by
November 10.
ROBERTS

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