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The governments of Cuba and China agreed this Tuesday to enhance their military cooperation and strengthen political coordination, during a meeting in Beijing between Chinese Defense Minister Dong Jun and his Cuban counterpart, Álvaro López Miera.
According to the official agency Xinhua, cited by EFE, Dong described the ties between the two nations as "a model of solidarity and cooperation among socialist countries" and assured that Beijing is willing to expand personnel exchanges and elevate military relations to "a new level."
“Special friendship” and support for Xi
López Miera, who is attending the Xiangshan Forum, the annual meeting of Chinese military diplomacy, reaffirmed Cuba's support for the four major global initiatives of President Xi Jinping and emphasized Havana's commitment to strengthen what he referred to as its "special friendship" with Beijing.
The meeting coincides with the 65th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries, characterized by ideological affinity and cooperation in political, economic, and financial areas.
Background and suspicions
The meeting takes place days after Miguel Díaz-Canel traveled to Beijing to participate in the parade for the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II in the Pacific, where both governments stated that their ties are at "their best moment."
However, the growing military collaboration between Havana and Beijing is raising international concerns. Last December, Díaz-Canel himself and Raúl Castro welcomed General He Weidong, Vice Chairman of China's Central Military Commission, at the Palace of the Revolution, amid reports about the potential expansion of Chinese espionage bases in Cuba.
In 2023, it was reported that both regimes were negotiating the construction of a joint military training facility, which would pave the way for the presence of Chinese troops just 100 miles from the United States.
A strategic alliance
Since 2018, through meetings between high-ranking military officials from both countries, Beijing has expressed its interest in strengthening strategic trust and “military-to-military” cooperation with Havana.
In the current context, marked by the severe economic crisis in Cuba, China emerges not only as a political and commercial ally but also as a significant military partner in the face of the international isolation of the Cuban regime.
Frequently Asked Questions about Military Cooperation between Cuba and China
What does the military cooperation between Cuba and China entail?
The military cooperation between Cuba and China focuses on personnel exchange and elevating military relations to a new level. This agreement was established during a meeting in Beijing between the defense ministers of both countries. China seeks to strengthen its relationship with Cuba as a strategic ally in the Caribbean, challenging the influence of the United States in the region.
What is the international reaction to the military alliance between Cuba and China?
The increasing military collaboration between Cuba and China has raised international concerns, especially in the United States, due to reports about the potential expansion of Chinese spy bases in Cuba. This alliance is seen as a challenge to U.S. national security, given that Cuba is just 100 miles from its coast.
What implications does the alliance between Cuba and China have for Latin America?
The strategic alliance between Cuba and China could have significant implications for the balance of power in Latin America, strengthening the presence of the Asian giant in the region and providing a counterweight to U.S. influence. This relationship is set against a backdrop of South-South cooperation, promoting a model of authoritarian development and governance.
How does the Cuba-China relationship affect the internal situation in Cuba?
Despite the alliance with China, Cuba continues to face a serious economic and social crisis, with blackouts, shortages of basic goods, and deterioration of infrastructure. The Cuban regime, however, seeks support from China not only economically but also politically and militarily, as a way to withstand international isolation.
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