DATE=05/14/02

TYPE=CORRESPONDENT REPORT

TITLE=BUSH/CUBA (S)

NUMBER=2-289800

BYLINE=SCOTT STEARNS

DATELINE=WHITE HOUSE

CONTENT=

VOICED AT:

INTRO: Former U-S President Jimmy Carter is in Cuba where he is challenging the Bush administration over its accusations that Cuban leader Fidel Castro is developing biological weapons. V-O-A's Scott Stearns has the story.

TEXT: Former President Jimmy Carter says U-S officials who briefed him before this trip told him they had no evidence that Cuba is exporting weapons technology.

White House spokesman Ari Fleischer says the issue did not come-up in Mr. Carter's briefing with National Security Advisor Condoleezza Rice because the trip's focus is more on human rights.

But Mr. Fleischer made it clear the Bush administration does believe Cuban President Fidel Castro is developing biological weapons.

/// FLEISCHER ACT ///

The issue about Cuba engaging in biological warfare research and development is an issue of concern to the United States.

/// END ACT ///

Mr. Fleischer says President Bush supports the trip and hopes Mr. Carter is able to help bring more democracy to Cuba. (Signed)

NEB/SS/SAB