Mediterranean and European Nations Targeted in the FY 2006 Foreign Ops

Cyprus stands to lose $20 million in ESF aid in FY 2006. The funds slated for Cyprus would be used to support the peace process and eventual reunification of the island, support economic development, empower civil society, and promote good governance.

• According to the U.S. State Department, the U.S. has a “longstanding interest in facilitating a comprehensive settlement on Cyprus. Since Cyprus issues involve Greece and Turkey—[U.S.] NATO allies—these issues affect regional stability for the entire Eastern Mediterranean region.”

Ireland stands to lose $12 million in FY 2006 ESF aid. These funds are used for the International Fund for Ireland and the Walsh Visa Program, and are intended to further the Northern Ireland peace process.

• The State Department makes clear that a “permanent political settlement in Northern Ireland remains a priority foreign policy goal of the United States.”
   

Updated April 13, 2006

background information

ECONOMIC SUPPORT FUNDS promote America’s foreign policy interests by providing assistance to key U.S. allies and countries in democratic transition. The fund assists Middle East peace negotiations and finances economic stabilization programs, often in a multi-donor context.
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BILATERAL IMMUNITY AGREEMENTS otherwise referred to as Article 98 agreements, prohibit states that are party to the International Criminal Court (ICC) from sending any U.S. personnel to the Court. Since the summer of 2002, the Bush Administration has sought to conclude bilateral immunity agreements with every country in the world.
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the INTERNATIONAL criminal COURT is the only permanent international court capable of trying individuals accused of genocide, war crimes and crimes against humanity when there is no other recourse for justice.
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