Oil spill opens new talks between Cuba and U.S.

The State Department confirmed Tuesday that "low, technical level" talks are under way to help Cuba respond if the sprawling oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico should move close to its shores.

The sprawling oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico is prompting fears in Cuba, which boasts one of the most pristine coral reefs in the Caribbean, miles of mangroves and nesting areas for green sea turtles.

Cuban government officials called U.S. oceanographers looking for assistance last week. And the State Department is "exchanging information and looking at avenues for further information exchange."