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 News from Around the Americas | February 2007 
Official Says U.S. Willing to Help Cuba
 Traci Carl - Associated Press
| | A woman sits underneath a photograph of Cuba's President Fidel Castro at a government office in Guanabacoa, outside of Havana February 1, 2007. Cubans worried about political turmoil expressed relief on Wednesday that ailing leader Castro was apparently recovering from intestinal surgery that forced him to hand over power to his brother Raul six months ago. (Reuters) |
U.S. Commerce Secretary Carlos Gutierrez said Thursday that Washington is willing to help Cuba make the transition to a more open, democratic society.
Speaking to reporters during a one-day visit to Mexico, Gutierrez said the U.S. supports a "peaceful transition to democracy."
Ailing Cuban leader Fidel Castro has been seen only in government-released videos and photos since ceded power to his brother Raul in late July while he recovers from intestinal surgery.
On Tuesday, Cuban state television released images of a stronger-looking Castro meeting with Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez, a close ally.
Gutierrez, who was born in Cuba, said the United States does not plan to meddle in Cuban politics but wants to see the country make the transition to democracy.
"The future of Cuba is in Cuba," he said, but added that "if we can be of help, we are ready to help in that transition."
Gutierrez did not elaborate, but last September he suggested that Cubans could work with the Organization of American States and other groups to hold a referendum on whether they want to live in democracy.
Gutierrez also said Thursday that President Bush's administration is working to pass an immigration reform that would allow the United States to protect its borders while recognizing the millions of people who already work illegally in the country.
"Unless we tackle the problem in a comprehensive fashion, it is just going to get worse," he said.
He said the U.S. must find a middle ground between "amnesty" and "animosity" and he spoke out against mass deportations, saying: "That's not humane or moral."
Gutierrez also praised a recent anti-drug crackdown launched by new President Felipe Calderon and said he expects Calderon to take action against Mexican industries that have been accused of monopolistic practices, such as telecommunications and television.
"We believe President Calderon is off to a strong start, and he'll need time to do what he needs to do," Gutierrez said. |
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