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And yesterday, the Prime Minister agreed. Yesterday at the airport, he told us that, Carlos Raul Morales, misspoke when he suggested that both countries committed in the Confidence Building Measures not to increase military bases at the border:

Prime Minister Dean Barrow
"I completely accept that he misspoke and I think he does too. The records are there and it is a fact that there is not that kind of language. I also understood him to say though that he accepts as well that what we mean to do with the forward operating base is not to be viewed by them as any kind of a threat. This is for purposes of our internal security arrangements and indeed we invite them to coordinate with us so that the illegal fishing and other illegal activities that clearly take place in the area might be more effectively interdicted."

"Look, the Americans in particular who have this overriding interest in Central America security, and especially in the trafficking in drugs are aboard. Are very much aware of what we wish to do and supportive and I believe at the military level, there is understanding on the part of the Guatemalan officials. Now at the political level, it seems to me that there is also agreement and so we will proceed."

And, on the root issue, Prime Minister Barrow reiterated that the Government does what is in the best interest of Belize, which the highest consideration:

Prime Minister Dean Barrow
"In talking to the group of friends, people will always advise caution, accepting that Belize is sovereign over her territory. But people will always say if you are going to do anything leading to an increase military presence in the border areas, as a matter of good sense and as a matter of committee you let your neighbors know that this is happening, so that there can be no misunderstanding. But I don't know of any friendly country that has ever come close to saying to us you absolutely should not do what you think you need to do with respect to your security."

When we asked about the start time for the construction of the forward operating base on Sarstoon Island, the Prime Minister said that as far as he is aware, none has been set as yet.