Belize Could Host US-Backed Regional Cybersecurity Center

Belize could become the home of a regional security centre designed to watch for possible Chinese threats to computer systems and important infrastructure across the region.  The proposal is reportedly being considered by the United States Government but has not yet been approved.  According to the Associated Press, the Trump administration is considering spending more than 340 million US dollars on over fifty projects intended to counter China’s growing influence around the world.  One proposal would establish a security operations centre in Belize. The facility would reportedly monitor possible cyberattacks and threats to essential systems, such as telecommunications networks and other critical infrastructure.  However, several important details remain unknown. The report does not say where the centre would be built, which Belizean agencies would operate it, how much money would be spent here or when it could begin operating.  The United States also plans to spend almost 176 million US dollars to replace ageing underwater telecommunications cables in parts of Central America and the Caribbean. American officials want those cables replaced with technology supplied by the United States or other countries it considers trustworthy.  That programme would reportedly benefit El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua and Haiti. Belize was not included on that list.  The United States argues that Chinese involvement in telecommunications, ports and other major projects could create security and economic risks. It says the proposed programmes would help countries protect important systems and rely less on Chinese technology and financing.  China has rejected claims that its overseas investments are aimed at competing for power or influence. Beijing says its cooperation with other countries is intended to support development and strengthen international partnerships.  If the Belize security centre is approved, the country could receive new technology, training and intelligence to help identify cyber threats. At the same time, it could place Belize more directly in the growing rivalry between the United States and China.  For now, the project remains only a proposal. Neither the United States nor the Government of Belize has publicly confirmed that the centre will be established here.