US revives conditional offer to lift embargo against Cuba

US revives conditional offer to lift embargo against Cuba
AP
Friday, August 25, 2006

WASHINGTON, USA (AP) - The Bush administration revived on Wednesday a
four-year-old proposal under which the US would move toward lifting the
embargo against Cuba in return for reinstatement of democratic processes
on the island.

The proposal was first set forth by President George W Bush in May 2002
and was rejected by Cuba. It has received scant attention since then.
"The offer is still on the table," said Assistant Secretary of State
Thomas Shannon, speaking to reporters.

He said the US would consult with Congress on lifting the embargo if
Cuba released political prisoners, protected human rights, legalised
political parties and "created a pathway" toward free elections.

Shannon's appearance was part of an administration effort to promote
democratic change in Cuba now that President Fidel Castro has
relinquished power to his brother, Raul.

The ailing elder Castro "does not appear to be in a position to return
to the kind of day-to-day management of affairs that he has effectively
enjoyed for so many decades," Shannon said.

He said he does not believe that Raul Castro will emerge as the supreme
leader of Cuba. Instead, he said, Cuba is now undergoing a process of
negotiation in preparation for a "power-sharing arrangement."

Shannon showed no interest in pursuing a diplomatic opening with Cuba
now that Fidel Castro has been sidelined.

http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/news/html/20060824T190000-0500_111867_OBS_US_REVIVES_CONDITIONAL_OFFER_TO_LIFT_EMBARGO_AGAINST_CUBA.asp