US concerned about Chinese military training center in Cuba

US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken meets with Foreign Secretary James Cleverley during a visit to the UK on Tuesday. Photo: REUTERS/LEAH MILLIS

US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken said Washington was deeply concerned after it became known that China plans to build a new military training center in Cuba.

The Wall Street Journal reported that China and Cuba have been in talks to set up a joint military training center on the island, which could lead to the deployment of Chinese troops 100 miles off the coast of Florida.

Speaking in London, Mr. Blinken said he had made it clear to his Chinese counterparts that «we will have serious concerns about PRC intelligence or military activities in Cuba.»

He added: closely, and we were very clear about it. And we will protect our homeland, we will protect our interests.”

Discussions on the facility were at an advanced stage, but not yet finalized, according to the Wall Street Journal.

Cuba contacted

The administration of President Joe Biden has contacted Cuban officials to try to stop the deal. Last week, Washington said it had already informed Cuba of its concerns about Chinese spying operations.

The US government has long suspected that China is conducting an intelligence-gathering operation in a village near Havana.

< p>China denies using Cuba as a spy base, and. Cuba says the only military incursion into its territory is the Guantanamo Naval Base, which belongs to the United States.

Mr. Blinken met with President Xi Jinping and Chinese foreign ministers during a two-day visit before arriving London. It was the highest level US trip to China in nearly five years.

Mr Blinken said it was best to negotiate with China and noted the «long relationship» between Mr Xi and Mr Biden.

He said: «It would be irresponsible not to participate, irresponsible, because it increases the likelihood of misunderstandings, miscalculations and, therefore, conflicts.»