Rangel Applauds President Obama's Actions on Trade With Cuba

New York, NY –Congressman Charles B. Rangel, who represents the 13th Congressional District of New York that includes Upper Manhattan and parts of the Bronx, released the following statement after President Barack Obama announced a further easing of trade restrictions with Cuba.  

“The new directives and regulatory changes announced by the White House today are another critical step toward normalizing our relationship and establishing open trade with Cuba. Located only 90 miles away, Cuba has the potential to be a robust trading partner. An open relationship with Cuba will yield benefits on both sides, not only generating revenue for our economy, but also enabling us to exchange American culture and ideals that can help foster democratic principles in Cuba.

I have been a staunch advocate of lifting the embargo with Cuba since I first introduced my Free Trade with Cuba Act in 1993. In recent years, I have been pleased to watch the United States chart a new course for relations with Cuba under the leadership of President Obama and it was my honor to join him on his historic trip to Cuba in March of 2016.

We are now closer than ever to modernizing the outdated policies of the Cold War. I applaud President Obama for his critical leadership in advancing US - Cuban relations. I urge Congress to do its part and act as soon as possible to lift the embargo so that our two nations can work collectively towards peace and prosperity.”