U.S. envoy would not confirm or deny spy claims

The Nassau Guardian

U.S. envoy would not confirm or deny spy claims

U.S. Charge d’Affaires John Dinkelman said yesterday he could neither confirm nor deny allegations that the U.S. National Security Agency (NSA) is recording and archiving every cell phone conversation in The Bahamas.

But Dinkelman said the relationship between the two countries is strong.

“Regarding the relationship between the United States and The Bahamas, it has never been stronger and will continue to be one of the closest and manageable in today’s world where we struggle together for freedoms, for peace and most importantly for the security of both our nations,” he said.

“The United States government is working very closely with the government of The Bahamas to meet any queries that the government of The Bahamas may have regarding any programs that the United States is engaged in.”

When asked if he was confirming that the allegations are true, Dinkelman said, “I am neither confirming nor denying for the United States does not comment on such things and will maintain such communications between the governments in a diplomatic channel.”

Dinkelman was joined by Governor General Sir Arthur Foulkes and Minister of National Security Dr. Bernard Nottage for a wreath-laying ceremony at Clifton Pier in commemoration of Memorial Day.

The government of The Bahamas has demanded an explanation from the United States over the documents, which were leaked by former NSA analyst Edward Snowden.

According to the documents leaked by Snowden, the NSA is using a surveillance system called SOMALGET to collect and store “full-take audio” of every mobile call made in The Bahamas and storing it for up to 30 days.

The story was first reported on the news website The Intercept.

According to Foreign Affairs Minister Fred Mitchell, Dinkelman gave both Nottage and him (Mitchell) notice about the article.

According to WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange, the only other country where the NSA records and archives every cell phone conversation is Afghanistan.

 

 

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