Chronicle on Cuba - November 2004

Highlights

Domestic Affairs: Cuban authorities release some jailed dissidents, including poet and journalist Raúl Rivero.

Economy: The US dollar is withdrawn from circulation in Cuba. The governments of Cuba and China sign a long list of cooperation accords affecting key areas of the island's economy, including nickel production.

Foreign Affairs: The European Parliament responds to indications from the EU's executive that Brussels might pursue a rapprochement with Cuba's regime by opposing such a move. China's President Hu Jintao arrives in Cuba. Cuba restores normal diplomatic relations with Spain. Malaysian Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi visits the island.

Security: Cuban Defense Minister, Raul Castro, meets North Korean Vice Marshal Kim Yong Chun, chief of the general staff of the Armed Forces of the People’s Democratic Republic of Korea.

US-Cuba Relations: US agricultural goods exported to Cuba reach $298 million. The 43 Cuban members of a theatrical production in Las Vegas seek asylum in the US. The Treasury Department prepares new guidelines for the growing food sales to Cuba.