You might know that America still has a military base in the Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. While people of Cuba do not want to retain this American base, they simply cannot get rid of this issue. There is actually a sound reason behind America still occupying a base in Cuba. In 1903, there was a lease treaty signed between America and Cuba according to which this harbor was leased to America on a minimal annual charge. Since then, America has been occupying this Cuban base.
On the other hand, if you are thinking why Cuba has not been trying to take this base back, then it is because of the same lease agreement that both these countries have made. There were some negotiations and renegotiations done on this agreement when both countries had friendly relations. According to 1934’s renegotiation on this agreement, it was decided that the agreement could only be terminated when both parties agreed to it. Due to this catch, Cuba has never been able to terminate the lease agreement of the American military base.
While Cuba does not want Americans to keep occupying it, America still wants to retain this base. Despite some current odds between the two countries, America is keen to keep their military base in Guantanamo Bay. Political leaders in Cuba are quite annoyed at this attitude of America. However, they do not have a choice. On the other hand, America has been constantly paying the set minimal amount to Cuba for retaining this base. It is another thing that Cuba has not even cashed American checks for many years.
Cuba has been making constant demands to America regarding the removal of its naval base by terminating the lease agreement. However, America has been paying least attention to these demands. Thus, the base is still under the control of America.
