” We are starting a new chapter between the nations of the Americas “, said the US president. “We are separated by a few kilometers, but a psychological barrier we away. As we have relations with China, a communist country, and with Vietnam, I wanted to review our relations with Cuba, “ he added, before launching at the end of speech: “Todos somos Americanos” (“We are all Americans” in Spanish.)
Follow live political statements and reactions
CASTRO: “WE HAVE DECIDED TO RESTORE RELATIONS WITH E UNITED STATES”
Specifically, the United States will “reopen an embassy in Havana” , within which was not given by Obama and the embargo in force since 1962, will be considered by Congress only authorized decide on a possible lifting. The objective of this embargo was to precipitate the fall of the Cuban regime set up after the 1959 revolution, the United States being the traditional market of the Cuban economy. But the decades have passed without the economic and financial restrictions produce convincing results. “The sanctions have had relatively little effect, isolation has not worked” , has recognized Mr. Obama.
Read our decryption: Oldest embargo he saw his last hours
“We have decided to restore relations with the United States” , said almost the same time Raul Castro, advocating “a respectful dialogue with the United States” and “mutual steps to move towards normalization.” “This does not mean that the principal is resolved, the embargo must stop,” , he added, acknowledging “our differences on democracy and human rights, but we are willing to discuss. “
Before the speeches, several US officials cited by the Associated Press and the New York Times affirmed that the United States would ease restrictions on travel and trade that affected the island.
In the afternoon, the Cuban government had freed American Alan Gross, 65, in prison on the island for five years for spying. Washington has always conditioned relaxation with Cuba for the release of the former contract of the Federal Agency for International Development (USAID). In the aftermath, the Cuban government also released fifty-three political prisoners, according to a US official. In the US, three people considered political prisoners by Cuba were released.
THE KEY ROLE OF POPE
Pope Francis has played an intermediary role essential in this historic rapprochement. At the announcement of the two heads of state, the Vatican announced the “great satisfaction” the Pope on “historic decision”. According to a senior US official, quoted by the New York Times Francis had a personal appeal to Barack Obama in a letter “this summer” and separately Raul Castro. The Vatican, which Cuba is a privileged diplomatic files hosted delegations from the two countries to finalize the reconciliation. By cons, Fidel Castro would “not been involved in discussions” .
relaxation signs had emerged in recent years. Raul Castro, who succeeded his brother Fidel in 2006, has put a stop to anti-American diatribes. Barack Obama for his part he relaxed the rules that apply to travel to the communist island. The publication, a few months ago, an editorial in the New York Times entitled “It’s time to end the embargo on Cuba,” was considered “of great skill “ by Fidel Castro
Read the story of our special correspondent dating from August. In Cuba, the shy openness increases inequality
No comments:
Post a Comment