The Biden administration has officially removed Cuba from the United States’ list of state sponsors of terrorism, a significant move aimed at improving relations between the two countries and facilitating the release of political prisoners. President Joe Biden notified Congress on Tuesday of the decision, which comes as part of a deal with the Cuban government to free individuals deemed unjustly detained by Washington.
Senior administration officials, speaking to reporters during a press call, stated that the move was made after a thorough assessment concluded there was “no credible evidence” that Cuba is currently supporting international terrorism. “This step reflects our commitment to engage with Cuba on matters of mutual interest and to promote human rights,” one official remarked.
The delisting reverses the action taken by former President Donald Trump in January 2021, during the final days of his term. Trump’s designation had overturned efforts by the Obama administration to normalize relations with Cuba, including lifting sanctions and restoring diplomatic ties.
As part of the agreement, senior Biden administration officials expect Cuba to release “many dozens” of prisoners by the time Trump is inaugurated again as president on January 20.
In addition to removing Cuba from the terrorism list, President Biden signed a national security memorandum rescinding the 2017 sanctions policy known as “National Security Presidential Memorandum 5.” This action effectively ends restrictions on certain Cuban individuals and entities conducting financial transactions with U.S. persons and entities, opening avenues for increased economic cooperation.
To further incentivize the Cuban government, the administration issued a six-month waiver for Title III of the Helms-Burton Act. This waiver blocks U.S. nationals and others from bringing claims in U.S. courts over property confiscated by Cuban authorities following the 1959 Cuban Revolution, easing a longstanding point of contention between the two nations.
The Vatican, led by Pope Francis, played a notable role in facilitating the agreement. Both senior officials and White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre acknowledged the Catholic Church’s contribution to the prisoner release deal. President Biden recently awarded Pope Francis the Presidential Medal of Freedom on Saturday, highlighting the importance of the pontiff’s involvement in diplomatic efforts.
This latest development signals a potential thaw in U.S.-Cuba relations and reflects the administration’s willingness to engage with Cuba on critical issues, including human rights and regional security.
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Biden administration delists Cuba as state sponsor of terrorism
cgtn.com
