Washington Determined to Prevent Chinese Naval Base in Equatorial Guinea: US General

In a hearing of the U.S. House Armed Services Committee, U.S. Army Gen. Stephen J. Townsend stated the countries concerns and planned actions to prevent formation of the Chinese Naval Base in Equatorial Guinea.

The hearing was held to address national security challenges and U.S. military activities in the Middle East and Africa.

"The thing I think I'm most worried about is this military base on the Atlantic coast, and where they have the most traction for that today is in Equatorial Guinea," Townsend said. He added that while the Chinese are scouting positions in the western coast of Africa, they have made most progress in Equatorial Guinea.

"As a first priority, we need to prevent or deter a Chinese space on the Atlantic coast of Africa," Townsend stated. The U.S. has recently sent an interagency delegation to that country to discuss U.S. security concerns, he added.

"Modest investments today can yield a continent of partners tomorrow. We are most effective when we synchronize diplomacy, development and defense." Townsend stated referring to the 0.3% of the DOD operating budget and manpower being spent on United States Africa Command.

China holds a large percentage of foreign debt and also has extended leases on critical infrastructure, including ports and airports in other parts of Africa, Townsend said.

Russian private security company, the Wagner Group has also been noted to be functioning in Africa. The U.S DoD stated that the company offers governments the ability to conduct counterinsurgency and counterterrorism operations unconstrained by human rights responsibilities.