Congresswoman Lee’s Applauds "Long Overdue" Action to Remove Cuba from State Sponsor of Terror List
Washington, D.C. - Congresswoman Barbara Lee released this statement applauding the removal of Cuba’s Designation as a State Sponsor of Terrorism:
“The removal of Cuba from the State Sponsor of Terrorism List is a long overdue step toward normalizing relations with our Caribbean neighbor. By taking this action, President Obama is once again showing his leadership and his willingness to build a more productive relationship between our two nations.
Along with many of my colleagues, I have repeatedly called for Cuba to be removed from this list. In December 2014, I authored a letter urging Cuba’s de-listing, signed by 37 of my colleagues.
The letter stated: “Over the years, reports by the State Department on the state sponsors of terrorism, have found no evidence or indication that Cuba provides weapons or training to terrorists. In fact, Cuba now meets global standards for fighting money-laundering and preventing terrorist finance, in addition to playing an active role in bringing Colombia’s civil war to an end.”
I am glad that the President has acted to make this important progress. Now it is time for Congress to follow the President’s lead. We must end the failed embargo, lift the travel ban and fully normalize relations. Renewed ties between our two countries will greatly benefit both the Cuban and American people by opening new trade opportunities, expanding educational and cultural exchanges and providing greater access to medical innovations and breakthroughs.”
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Congresswoman Lee is a member of the Appropriations and Budget Committees, the Steering and Policy Committee, is a Senior Democratic Whip, former chair of the Congressional Black Caucus and co-chair of the Progressive Caucus. She serves as chair of the Whip’s Task Force on Poverty and Opportunity.