US accused of prying into foreign missions’ bank accounts

monitoring bank accounts of their American-based foreign missions.
More than 15 Asian and African countries – including Zimbabwe – are restricted from transacting with specific banks under new rules that compel them to conduct financial dealings in Washington only.

Diplomatic sources in New York complained at the weekend that this goes against provisions of the Vienna Convention which requires host governments to facilitate the operations of foreign missions.
US State authorities could not be reached for comment.
“There is over-surveillance of developing countries by the government here,” said the sources.

“Many developing countries were asked to keep their money in Washington.
“However, others who are in good books with them are not being subjected to the same measures.
“Washington is the seat of homeland security and Treasury. It, therefore, follows that the spirit behind this move is to ensure closer supervision of foreign missions and their transactions.”
According to information gathered, the measures came into force on April 1 this year.

Zimbabwe’s Permanent Mission to the United Nations was among the foreign offices that held accounts with JP Morgan Chase Bank.
The missions were taken by surprise when they were advised to conduct transactions elsewhere.
Sources said the US State Department refused to facilitate alternative transaction avenues, arguing it was the prerogative of private institutions to accept or reject deposits and withdrawals.

The sources said subsequent moves were made to centralise the missions’ bank accounts in Washington.
About 15 African offices were affected, according to a diplomat who preferred anonymity.
“The present situation means we cannot keep any cash here in New York and cannot also deal with any other bank outside Washington,” said the source.

“Washington is three to four hours’ drive from here. It is like asking foreign missions to travel from Harare to Gweru (in Zimbabwe) to conduct transactions! One cannot also post cheques.
“That means one would, in some instances, expend more money in order to deposit a cheque for a small amount.
“In the same way, a mission official would need to spend four days in Washington just to withdraw US$10 000 as the maximum withdrawal limit is US$3 000 per day.

“In some countries, they (American government) bring in money without even going through Treasury and the funds find their way to non-governmental organisations.
“In light of these developments, we might be forced to consider introducing the same remedies they are prescribing here.

“Perhaps that’s what we need to do back home.”