Washington, DC – Representative Gregory W. Meeks, Ranking Member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, issued the following statement following the Biden-Harris Administration’s changing U.S. policy toward Cuba, including the removal of Cuba from the State Sponsors of Terrorism list, the rescission of National Security Memorandum 5 issued on June 16, 2017, and the waiver of Title III of the Helms-Burton Act: 

"I commend the Biden-Harris Administration for taking these long overdue steps removing outdated restrictions that have impacted the advancement of U.S. national security interests across the western hemisphere. U.S. policy toward Cuba has been ineffective and arbitrary, imposing one of the world’s most stringent embargo regimes against a small island nation, yielding little change. By prioritizing direct engagement and lifting punitive measures, this policy shift demonstrates a clear commitment to supporting the Cuban people, fostering economic opportunity, and advancing U.S. foreign policy objectives in the region. 

"The decision to remove Cuba from the State Sponsors of Terrorism list reflects a necessary alignment of policy with facts. This shift is a clear demonstration that sanctions, when used as a policy rather than a targeted tool, fail to bring about change. For decades, these measures have only deepened their economic hardship, fueling mistrust and slowing progress on an array of foreign policy priorities from extradition to cooperation on rule of law and security. Constructive engagement, rather than isolation, is the best way to support U.S. national security. 

I also commend former Representative Barbara Lee for her career of work to reform U.S. policy towards Cuba and help institute the steps taken today. This is a pivotal moment to open doors for the Cuban people and demonstrate that diplomacy and engagement are the most effective tools for promoting democracy, prosperity, and freedom. 

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