CABLECODE#: 09STATE15113

2009-02-18 23:11

United States ‘critical infrastructure’ list

Key point: This global list of critical non-military assets was apparently compiled by US diplomats in secret. It lists crucial factories, pharmaceuticals, mines and telecommunications networks, which, if attacked by terrorists, would supposedly harm United States’ interests. Assets listed in Australia include resources such as nickel and magnesiCrikey’s take on WikiLeaks cableum, an undersea telecommunications cable and two medical companies.

Dispatch: “The overarching goal of the National Infrastructure Protection Plan (NIPP) is to build a safer, more secure, and more resilient America by enhancing protection of the nation’s critical infrastructure/key resources (CI/KR) to prevent, deter, neutralize or mitigate the effects of deliberate efforts by terrorists to destroy, incapacitate or exploit them; and to strengthen national preparedness, timely response, and rapid recovery in the event of an attack, natural disaster or other emergency.”

What they said: “There are strong and valid reasons information is classified, including critical infrastructure and key resources that are vital to the national and economic security of any country.” — US Assistant Secretary of State Philip Crowley

“The publication of the documents that we’re seeing is incredibly irresponsible and reprehensible.” — Attorney-General Robert McClelland

critinfrawiki