Raul Castro wants to talk to the US.
Why is Raul looking to chat with BO? The answer is economic. In other words, Raul wants to talk because Raul has to talk!
Cuba is a big mess, specially after those hurricanes. It has been a mess since Fidelismo took over the country.
What about the US embargo?
This is a lot of hot air.
Cuba is free to trade with any country. Cuba does not need the US to buy food, equipment or spare parts.
Cuba can buy them from Canada, Mexico, or the EU.
Cuba can negotiate credit lines from banks everywhere.
What should BO tell Raul Castro? Let me suggest this telegram:
"I will be happy to visit with you after you are elected in a multi-party election.
After that election, and the release of every political prisoner, I will invite you to the White House and we catch a baseball game at the Nationals' new stadium.
It's a beautiful place to watch a baseball game.
In fact, I'll talk to Commissioner Selig about an All Star game in Havana!"
Let's see if Raul accepts those terms!
"What can Obama do to stimulate changes in Cuba?
He can adopt several measures to gradually reduce the economic sanctions if the dictatorship releases political prisoners or relieves its pressure on the dissidents;
elevate the rank of the United States' diplomatic representation to the category of embassy;
facilitate sports and academic exchanges.
But before any initiative is taken in Washington, a key question must be asked:
Will that step lead Cubans toward democracy and an economic opening, or will it help consolidate in power an authoritarian oligarchy that abusively divvies up the nation's revenues?
That's the litmus test.
If the result is the latter, there's no sense even in trying."
Mr. Montaner's suggestion won't please the "everything is the US's fault" crowd.
It won't satisfy the "blame everything on US embargo" crowd.
However, it will promote freedom in Cuba!
It will get Dr. Biscet, and the many others released.
