- Cuba is no longer designated as a State Sponsor of Terrorism
- President Joe Biden issues waiver for Title III of the Helms-Burton Act
- 2017 National Security Presidential Memorandum 5 rescinded
WASHINGTON, USA – The Biden administration has shifted its approach to Cuba, prioritizing the empowerment of the Cuban people in determining their own future while promoting human rights. This was highlighted in a recent statement on January 14, 2025.
“Our policies aim to reunite Cuban families, enhance cultural and educational exchanges between Cuba and the U.S., facilitate remittances to the Cuban people, and support independent entrepreneurs in Cuba,” a government spokesperson stated. “We are implementing several measures to bolster the livelihood of Cubans in coordination with the Catholic Church under the leadership of Pope Francis.”
Key Actions include notifying Congress that President Biden has officially removed Cuba from the list of State Sponsors of Terrorism.
Additionally, a waiver for Title III of the Helms-Burton Act, also referred to as the Libertad Act, has been issued for a duration of six months.
Moreover, the 2017 National Security Presidential Memorandum 5 concerning Cuba policy has been rescinded, abolishing the previous “restricted list” and easing regulations on engagement between U.S. persons and entities and their Cuban counterparts.
Government officials communicated that the Cuban government is expected to release a significant number of political prisoners soon.
These measures reflect the ongoing dialogue between the Cuban government and the Catholic Church, as well as the guidance from international leaders advocating for the advancement of human rights in Cuba.
“These initiatives are in recognition of the Church’s role in fostering constructive change in Cuba, aimed at restoring freedoms for its citizens and enhancing the lives of Cubans,” the spokesperson concluded.
