Chronicle on Cuba - February 2007

Highlights

Domestic Affairs: At the opening ceremony of Havana’s International Book Fair, one of Cuba's top poets takes the unusual step of arguing against the exclusion of certain authors on grounds of ideology or place of residence. Dissident attorney Rene Gomez Manzano is unexpectedly released from prison. Communication Minister Ramiro Valdes defends Internet restrictions. Cuban authorities decide not to renew visas to three foreign press correspondents. Fidel Castro calls in to Venezuelan President’s radio talk show to say he feels well.

Economy: Cuban agricultural authorities express concern with regards to the outlook for sugar production in 2007. Cuban police break up several counterfeiting networks in Havana specializing in printing both convertible and national currency. Sherritt International Corp. says it expects growth to come in 2007 through expansion of its power and metals mining projects in Cuba. The 7th Session of the Cuba-Venezuela Inter-governmental Joint Commission concludes in Havana with the signing of 355 projects worth $1.5 billion.

Exile Community: The Cuban-American National Foundation is ready to talk with Carlos Lage. Mario Chanes de Armas, the Cuban political prisoner who served the longest sentence in modern times, dies in Miami.

Foreign Affairs: The Organization of American States Secretary General hopes the lack of dialogue with Cuba is only temporary. It is a top priority for Mexico to re-launch “dialogue and political understanding” with Cuba. Canadian Ambassador to Washington says his country is prepared to act as a "bridge" between the US and Cuba. Honduras names its first ambassador to Cuba in 45 years.

Security: Cadets and teachers from Venezuelan military academies visit the island.

Terrorism: The Colombian government and guerrilla organization ELN hold talks in Havana.

US-Cuba Relations: Polls indicate that Americans want the US to re-establish regular diplomatic relations with the island. Cuba remained one of the more important markets for American farmers in 2006. US Commerce Secretary tells lawmakers and business groups the Bush administration won't waver from its tough stance toward Havana. A Florida International University professor accused of spying for the Cuban government is sentenced to five years in prison.