U.S. moves to mend ties with Cuba "insufficient": Ecuadorian president

[Judi Lynn]

U.S. moves to mend ties with Cuba "insufficient": Ecuadorian president
English.news.cn 2015-05-14 11:36:54

QUITO, May 13 (Xinhua) -- Ecuadorian President Rafael Correa Wednesday welcomed U.S. efforts to restore ties with Cuba, but criticized them for being insufficient, state daily Andes reported.

Before it can make any meaningful progress in the rapprochement, Washington needs to lift its trade embargo against Cuba and withdraw from Guantanamo, where it maintains a naval base and holds notorious prisons, Correa said.

"It's a good sign but (it's ) absolutely insufficient, because they haven't lifted that embargo, because they haven't withdrawn from Guantanamo, a clear symbol of 21st century colonialism that undoubtedly violates all international laws," Correa said during a meeting with foreign correspondents at government headquarters.

The joint U.S.-Cuba announcement on restoring diplomatic ties last December generated "hope" that the United States was going to change its policy toward Latin America. However, the move was followed shortly by sanctions against Venezuela, said Correa.

More:
http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2015-05/14/c_134238505.htm

[MADem]

1. Says the country that is serving as de facto jailor to Assange, while using the US dollar as their

official currency.

Say what you need to say, Rafael! Keep that "Fight The Power" cred fresh (for anyone who doesn't look too close).

[Demeter]

2. I suspect that's about as good as it's gonna get

because it's not an honest rapprochement, but more political maneuvering.

The US intends to pull a fast one. Fortunately, the US is a wreck of a pitcher, who can't even find the box anymore.

And there's not enough money in the deal to make it worth throwing in a relief pitcher.

We are going to have to wait for change before there's any hope....

[bemildred]

3. Dang, they are ganging up on us. nt