“Today should mark the end of a dark era in Cuba’s history. Fidel Castro’s stepping down is an essential first step, but it is sadly insufficient in bringing freedom to Cuba.”- Obama
Most people alive today don’t remember a time when Fidel Castro didn’t rule over the island of Cuba with his iron fist. We must wonder what’s next, but for the moment we can hope – this seems to be the theme of world politics in 2008 – for a better future for all Cubans.
“Cuba’s future should be determined by the Cuban people and not by an anti-democratic successor regime.” – Obama
No mas Castro! Well.. not quite yet. Fidel’s 76 year old brother Raul Castro has been running the country for the last 19 months, and is likely to be elected the next President of Cuba by the General Assembly on Sunday. Raul has shown interest in subtle economic reforms, and is open to talks with the US – just not while G.W. Bush is in office.
“If the Cuban leadership begins opening Cuba to meaningful democratic change, the United States must be prepared to begin taking steps to normalize relations and to ease the embargo of the last five decades.” – Obama
The next American president will have the best opportunity to normalize relations with Cuba in over 50 years. Whoever that person maybe will have to lift the embargo completely. This will allow the free exchange of goods, people and ideas. The Department of State should issue orders to begin construction on a new embassy in Havana, whose staff’s first charge will be to transition from our disastrous and illogical embargo to an open and free relationship. Should certain segments of the Cuban government feel this threatens their leadership and the credibility of the ongoing revolution, the United States will need to take a more measured approach to normalization. This means opening trade and investment ties but keeping political progress flexible and reactive to internal developments in Cuba.
“The freedom of the Cuban people is a cause that should bring Americans together.” – Obama
Most importantly, the next president will need to bring Americans together in order to do what’s best for the Cuban people. This means negotiating, but not caving to the interests of right-wing Cubans in South Florida, as well as the American oil and gas business.
careful here. don’t like Castro either but like the right-wing exiles even less.
And don’t forget to acknowledge the sustainable agriculture revolution the Cubans pulled off after they lost their oil subsidies.
clearly more important is the story CNN has the on its front page right now: “Blind Vets Learn to Ski”
why dont you guys blog about the real issues.
jesus.