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| John Conyers, Jr. |
“President
Obama has demonstrated real leadership in securing the release of
American Alan Gross and initiating the reestablishment of normal
diplomatic and economic relations
with Cuba.
“For
more than half a century, our country’s policy of isolation toward Cuba
has failed to promote democracy or prosperity for the Cuban people.
The policy has separated
families, obstructed trade, and undermined US influence in the Western
Hemisphere.
“Today’s
announcement from President Obama is a historic step in the right
direction. In moving toward normal diplomatic relations, empowering the
Cuban people economically
through greater access to remittances and exports, authorizing
additional travel, and initiating other steps to reintegrate Cuba into
the community of nations, President Obama is laying the groundwork for
substantial economic development and progress on human
rights.
“This
announcement is also good news for the US economy. Cuba sits just 90
miles off our coast and has an economy of more than $68 billion. Yet,
up to this point, American
firms have been forced to cede business to foreign competitors. Of
particular interest to my hometown of Detroit, the people of Cuba—who
must famously rely on American cars made before 1959—may soon be able to
buy American cars and automotive parts once again.
“As a longtime advocate of normalized relations with Cuba, I look
forward to working with President Obama to fully implement the policy
initiatives announced today. I commend the President for heeding the
wise advice of Pope Francis and other human rights
leaders in making today’s compassionate, commonsense decision. After
more than 50 years of failed policy, it’s time that we changed course.”
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