Cuban Economic Reforms

Cuba says its talks with the United States have hit a standstill, even after Havana approved a sweeping package of free-market reforms. Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez said the changes were not discussed in earlier talks and are a matter of “total and absolute sovereignty.” The sharp break comes as Washington has added new pressure of its own. Earlier this month, the U.S. imposed fresh sanctions on Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel, other officials, and companies seen as important to the island’s struggling economy. What Havana Says Changed Rodríguez said the newly announced measures were not part of the dialogue with Washington, and he rejected any suggestion that the U.S. should weigh in on them. He also said it was striking that the reforms were followed by “a new package of unilateral coercive measures” against Cuba. According to Cuba’s Communist Party and the National Assembly of People’s Power, the approved package includes 176 economic measures. Officials describe it as the biggest economic shift since the revolution and say it includes more space for private businesses, free hiring of personnel, and authorization for private banks and investment by Cubans abroad. Recent Cuban Measures What They Include Related U.S. Response 176 economic measures More private business, free hiring, private banks, investment by Cubans abroad New sanctions on Cuban leaders and key companies The Broader U.S.-Cuba Tension Rodríguez said U.S. officials were “generally respectful” during earlier talks, but he accused Washington of combining that tone with “constant aggressive statements against Cuba, threats of military aggression, and the imposition of additional coercive measures.” The U.S. State Department did not immediately respond to a request for comment. He made the remarks during a press conference announcing a July 7 debate at the U.N. General Assembly on the energy embargo imposed by President Donald Trump in late January. Rodríguez said the blockade and the broader U.S. policy of hostility are a threat to “the existence and well-being of the Cuban people” and to their human rights. He also denied that Cuba poses a threat to the United States, which he described as “a major military and nuclear power.” Cuba’s economy remains under severe strain, with prolonged blackouts, fuel rationing, internet outages, suspended public transportation, and flight cancellations. Basic services such as garbage collection and water delivery have also been suspended, and workdays have been reduced. Read more at: apnews.com

Cuba Says Talks With The U.S. Are Stalled, Even After Major Economic Reforms