A U.S. agricultural coalition said it hoped for an end to the U.S. trade embargo on Cuba now that the nations agreed to re-open embassies in each other’s capital. President Obama announced the step as part of re-establishing diplomatic relations with Cuba, a process that began last December. “Americans and Cubans alike are ready to move forward,” Obama said. I’ve called on Congress to take steps to lift the embargo that prevents Americans from traveling or doing business in Cuba.”
The U.S. Agriculture Coalition for Cuba, an umbrella group of farm and agribusinesses, said it was “hopeful today’s announcement will ultimately lead to an end to the embargo and increased economic opportunity for agriculture in both our nations.” The coalition said it was working with lawmakers to end the embargo. Minnesota Sen. Amy Klobuchar said she has 17 cosponsors on her bill, S 491, to lift the trade embargo. The White House has eased two restrictions on food and agriculture trade with Cuba but other restrictions are set by law.
Cuba said the embassies could open as early as July 20. Reuters reports that Havana said normal relations much include an end of economic sanctions and return of the U.S. Navy base at Guantanamo Bay, said Reuters.