Chronicle on Cuba - August 2005
Highlights
Domestic Affairs: Angry demonstrations organized by Cuban authorities are staged outside the homes of dissidents. One of two Cuban ministers of government is "relieved from duty". Permanent commissions of the National Assembly of the People's Power begin preparatory debates prior to the ordinary parliamentary session.
Economy: Cuba's sugar output is headed for another disastrous year. Cuba modernizes its nickel plants.
Foreign Affairs: Fidel Castro meets with more than 20 leaders and high-ranking dignitaries from Latin America and the Caribbean community during the first graduation of students from the Latin American School of Medicine. Cuba and Panama restore diplomatic ties. Fidel Castro and Mexican authorities exchange statements on the smuggling of Cubans through Mexico.
Security: Two delegations of Venezuelan militaries visit Havana. The Venezuelan president says Venezuela would come to Cuba's defense if the United States invades the island.
US-Cuba Relations: A US appeals court overturns the convictions of five Cubans sentenced on spy-related charges. US Defense Secretary accuses Venezuela and Cuba of trying to destabilize Bolivia. Cuba purchases $30 million in Nebraska agricultural products. Thirty-one Cuban migrants disappear at sea trying to reach the US coast. The Bush administration backs away from claims that Cuba has an offensive biological weapons effort. |
