1. Cuba has ultimate sovereignty over the bay.
2. The U.S. can lease it unless both countries agree otherwise or
if the U.S. abandons the bay.
3. The area cannot be expanded by the U.S.
4. Commercial, industrial, and private enterprises are not permitted.
5. This territory cannot be used to protect fugitives wanted under
Cuban law.
6. Materials, merchandise, and munitions are not to be transported
into Cuba.
7. Cuba and those who trade with Cuba have free access to Cuba through
the bay.
8. The U.S. must pay $40235 a year to rent the base (only one payment
has been made since Castro took control in 1959).
9. The bay cannot be used simply to enter or leave Cuba.
This is the oldest overseas naval base owned by the U.S., and its
strategic location made it especially important during the post -Cold War
years. Beginning in 1961, after the end of the Cold War, around 50,000
land mines were placed between Cuba and Guantanamo Bay. This was
to provide protection against any communist threats from Cuba. Some
mariners on the island were assigned to work daily to maintain the mines.
It is estimated that each mine was checked once every four years. However,
on May 16, 1996, President Clinton ordered that all anti-tank personnel
and anti-tank land mines be replaced with motions and sound sensors to
detect any invaders. This was done in an effort to improve relations
with Cuba.The bay has also been important for fleeing Cubans. At
times throughout history, they have been allowed to find refuge at Guantanamo
Bay. However, there have been certain points were this was not the case.
Needless to say, Guantanamo Bay is important to the United States and its
relationship with Cuba.
