“Mohitos and Cuabas”
As we close in on the November ’04 Presidential elections, the summer month’s electory issues include such topical matters as the war overseas in Iraq, the continuing campaign in Afghanistan, the economy, healthcare and while not on the tips of most Americans, the possible continued ending of the Cuban embargo. As the embargo enters its 5th decade, support for an open Cuba policy is growing. It seems outdated and odd that in light of the post cold war Russia and modernization of China that we would continue our isolationist policy merely to placate the modest, albeit unified Cuban American community. With Cuba’s military capabilities minimized, its socialist model rife with capitalistic elements and foreign private investments welcomed, it appears Americas’ position may be outdated in spite of President Fidel Castro’s continued leadership. At a recent Convention in Havana and utilizing a law enacted in 2000 by the Clinton Administration (sales on certain US products such as agricultural and packaged goods were permitted on a cash basis), some 150 US companies sold over $100M worth of goods. Approximately $700M has been purchased by Cuba to date under this law. Reforms have brought some economic relief to its citizens but old, established socialist rigidities still control the borderline 3rd world economy. Cubans are a well-educated and entrepreneurial people and would welcome a greater American and Western influence. An end of the embargo would also allow American companies to compete with European and Canadian firms for numerous economic opportunities. Without the US embargos political crutch utilized by self-serving Cuban politicians, undoubtedly new ideas and the entrepreneurial spirit would overwhelm old dogmas. With successful socialist reforms in China, Vietnam and Russia, the 11 million citizens of Cuba have excellent blueprints to follow. With the recent death of President Ronald Reagan, perhaps we should learn from the successful strategy employed during his Presidency against the Soviet Union’s communist bloc: direct contact, diplomacy and magnanimous gestures to encourage change. President Bush has demonstrated no desire for détente, Senator Kerry’s position, like most of his positions, remain undeterminable. Perhaps the timing is ripe to enjoy Cuban culture (cuban cigars and mohitos, my personal favorites) firsthand!