President Obama and his family arrived in Havana, Cuba today for a 2-day visit. His visit marks the first since 1928 that a U.S. president has visited Cuba.
Obama's visit comes after some 55 years of mutual hostility with the Cuban regime, beginning with the establishment of a Communist government Cuba in the years following their 1959 revolution. The U.S. currently maintains a trade embargo for Cuba, something that will certainly be on the table in the bilateral discussions between Obama and Cuban President Raul Castro. A number of business leaders traveled with the President to begin talks to open Cuba to investment and trade. Obama intends to meet with Cuban dissidents and to press human rights issues with the Castro government. In addition, he will be attending an exhibition game between the Tampa Bay Rays and the Cuban national baseball team while in Cuba. Obama will also speak to the Cuban people about the challenges and opportunities ahead with improved relations.
Upon arriving in Havana, the President tweeted:
¿Que bolá Cuba? Just touched down here, looking forward to meeting and hearing directly from the Cuban people.— President Obama (@POTUS) March 20, 2016
Here's hoping the visit produces benefits not only for the U.S., but for the people of Cuba.
(photo: Associated Press. President Obama and family arrive in a rainy Havana for their historic visit)
