Cuba Imports Condoms From India

In 2016, the Ministry of Public Health (MINSAP) of the Republic of Cuba imported approximately US$160,000.00 in condoms from Thiruvananthapuram, India-based HLL Lifecare Ltd; in 2017, the company is expect to export approximately US$300,000.00 in condoms to MINSAP.

Condom manufacturers in the United States include Ewing, New Jersey-based Church & Dwight Co, Inc.; Iselin, New Jersey-based Ansell Americas (headquarters in Australia); Parsippany, New Jersey-based Reckitt Benckiser LLC (headquarters in United Kingdom);

Colorado Governor To Become 15th To Visit Cuba Since 1999

The Honorable John Hickenlooper (D), Governor of the State of Colorado, will visit the Republic of Cuba from 2 February 2017 to 5 February 2017.  Governor Hickenlooper will be the fifteenth (15th) governor to visit the Republic of Cuba since 1999.

Denver, Colorado-based Biennial Of The Americas (www.biennialoftheamericas.org), a non-profit organization, is coordinating the visit to the Republic of Cuba.  Governor Hickenlooper is the Honorary Co-Chairman of the Board of Directors.

Representatives of Colorado-based companies are participating in the visit; the names of the companies have not been published.

Governor Hickenlooper will be paying the expenses for him and his wife.  Biennial Of The Americas will be paying the expenses of Mr. Doug Friednash, Chief of Staff to the Governor.  Two security officers will accompany the Governor, as required by state statute; their expenses will be paid by the state of Colorado.

George Ryan (R- Illinois)-  1999/2002
Jesse Ventura (I- Minnesota)- 2002
John Hoeven (R- Nebraska)- 2002
David Heineman (R- Nebraska)- 2005/2006/2007
Kathleen Blanco (D- Louisiana)- 2005
John Balducci (D- Maine)- 2005
Butch Otter (R- Idaho)- 2007
Mike Beebe (D- Arkansas)- 2009
Bill Richardson (D- New Mexico)- 2009/2010
Sonny Perdue (R- Georgia)- 2010
Jay Nixon (D- Missouri) replaced by wife, Georganne Nixon- 2015
Andrew Cuomo (D- New York)- 2015
Asa Hutchinson (R- Arkansas)- 2015
Greg Abbott (R- Texas)- 2015
Terry McAuliffe (D- Virginia)- 2016
Jay Nixon (D- Missouri)- 2016
Lt. Governor Brad Owen (D-Washington)- 2016
John Bel Edwards (D- Louisiana)- 2016
Earl Ray Tomblin (D- West Virginia)- 2016
John Hickenlooper (D- Colorado)- 2017

Outline For A Visit By A Governor To The Republic Of Cuba

Cuba Is "Trivial" Part Of Business Says Royal Caribbean Cruises Chairman & CEO; Not Quite Accurate

Mr. Richard D. Fain, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Royal Caribbean Cruises, Ltd. (2016 revenues exceeded US$8 billion), referred to the company's planned April 2017 to May 2017 sailings to the Republic of Cuba as a "trivial part of our business" during an appearance on CNBC's "Power Lunch" program on 26 January 2017.

Mr. Fain is correct about the economic impact of the Republic of Cuba to the company based upon announced activity for 2017.  He is not accurately reflecting the commensurate effort by the company to obtain authorization from the government of the Republic of Cuba.

Reportedly, members of the Chicago, Illinois-based Pritzker family have substantive shareholdings in Royal Caribbean Cruises, Ltd.; at one reporting they were the third-largest shareholder in the company.  The Honorable Penny Pritzker (net worth reported as US$2.4 billion) served as United States Secretary of Commerce during the Obama Administration from 26 June 2013 to 20 January 2017 and visited the Republic of Cuba twice during her tenure.

For the Republic of Cuba sailings, the company is using its 2,270-passenger Empress of the Seas (692ft), which was placed in service on 25 June 1990.  

The "Godmother" of the Empress of the Seas is the Republic of Cuba-born, Florida-based singer Ms. Gloria Estefan.

With four (4) announced itineraries (one departing from Miami, Florida and three from Tampa, Florida), if the Empress of the Seas was fully-occupied for each sailing, the total number of passengers would be 6,408 with gross revenues of approximately US$8.3 million.  In 2016, Royal Caribbean Cruises, Ltd. vessels carried six million passengers.  The four Republic of Cuba sailings would represent .11% of the total passengers carried by the company and .10% of gross revenues to the company.

ROYAL CARIBBEAN INTERNATIONAL OPENS SAILINGS TO CUBA
Adventure Seekers Can Now Visit Havana On Empress of the Seas from Miami or Tampa

MIAMI, Dec. 9, 2016 – Salsa music, dominoes, Mojitos and historic Havana neighborhoods are easier to reach than ever before for guests on Royal Caribbean International. The newly revitalized Empress of the Seas will make history for the cruise line with its first visit to Cuba during a 5-night sailing departing Miami on April 19, 2017. The ship will then reposition to Tampa offering two itineraries with calls to Havana on April 30 (7-night sailing) and May 20 (5-night sailing). These Empress of the Seas sailings are now open for sale.

Empress of the Seas will homeport in Tampa for the 2017 summer season – the cruise line’s first-ever summer program from the destination – offering a series of 4- and 5-night sailings, including port calls to destinations in Cuba. Empress will provide vacationers with the opportunity to discover the timeless sights, sounds and culture of this island nation. Details of the summer itineraries will be released at a later date.

“Royal Caribbean is the world’s most exciting adventure company, and we’re thrilled to introduce culture-seeking travelers to Cuba. As the unrivaled innovators of the cruise experience, no company is better positioned to help adventurers explore and experience this culturally rich destination,” said Michael Bayley, President and CEO, Royal Caribbean International.

Guests sailing onboard Empress of the Seas and visiting Cuba can enjoy curated people-to-people experiences created to immerse vacationers in the natural beauty of Cuba, its architecture, cuisine, music and art.  All cruises will be designed in accordance with current U.S. to Cuba travel regulations.

While in Cuba, guests will explore Old Havana – a UNESCO World Heritage site – some of the city’s most notable squares, historic neighborhoods, a local artisan market, Havana’s rum museum as well as Hemingway’s former residence and favorite haunts. Local experts will immerse guests in the history, culture and people of Cuba. These authentic encounters will give guests an unforgettable taste of what has made Cuba the gem of the Caribbean.

The authentic experiences aren’t limited to land. The vibrant culture will extend to Empress of the Seas, from cortaditos and café con leche in Café Royal to salsa music, guests will have a range of onboard activities developed to bring the spirit of the island to life during the entire journey. The revitalized Empress will bring the shipboard Cuban flair together with signature amenities, such as a thrilling rock-climbing wall for adrenaline seekers; updated pool and whirlpools; a Vitality Spa with an extensive treatment menu; and a complimentary Adventure Ocean youth program. Empress also will offer a variety of dining options with the casual atmosphere of the Windjammer Café and fine dining at Royal Caribbean’s signature steakhouse Chops.

The summer program on Empress of the Seas provides travelers with more opportunities to sample the unique Royal Caribbean experience from Tampa. Two other Royal Caribbean ships, Rhapsody of the Seas and Brilliance of the Seas, will offer Caribbean itineraries from the homeport during the winter season. Guests interested in being one of the first to experience Cuba with Royal Caribbean can contact their travel professional, call Royal Caribbean at 1-866-562-7625 or visit RoyalCaribbean.com/Cuba.

Royal Caribbean International is an award-winning global cruise brand with a 46-year legacy of innovation and introducing industry “firsts” never before seen at sea.  The cruise line features an expansive and unmatched array of features and amenities only found on Royal Caribbean including, jaw-dropping, Broadway-style entertainment and industry-acclaimed programming that appeals to families and adventurous vacationers alike. Onboard, guests are catered to with the cruise line’s world-renowned friendly and engaging Gold Anchor Service by every staff and crew member. Royal Caribbean has been voted “Best Cruise Line Overall” for 13 consecutive years in the Travel Weekly Readers Choice Awards.

The cruise line sails 25 of the world’s most innovative cruise ships to the most popular destinations in Bermuda and the Caribbean, Europe, Canada and New England, Alaska, South America, Asia, and Australia and New Zealand. Media can stay up-to-date by following @RoyalCaribPR on Twitter, and visiting RoyalCaribbeanPressCenter.com. For additional information or to make reservations, vacationers should call their travel agent; visit RoyalCaribbean.com; or call (800) ROYAL-CARIBBEAN.

Biography Of Mr. Fain:

"Richard D. Fain serves as Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. (NYSE: RCL). More than five million guests sail each year aboard the company's cruise lines. RCL owns and operates Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises and Azamara Club Cruises and is part of joint ventures that operate Pullmantur and TUI Cruises. The company's 49 ships sail to nearly 500 ports on all seven continents.

Fain became the cruise line company's chairman and CEO in 1988, and has guided its growth to its current place on the S&P 500, as well as its listing by the Ethisphere Institute as a 2016 World's Most Ethical Company.Fain is chair of the University of Miami Board of Trustees, and serves on the board of the Posse Foundation and the executive committee of the World Travel and Tourism Council.

He has been recognized with the Federal Maritime Commission's Earth Day Award, the Travel Weekly Lifetime Achievement Award, the South Florida Business Journal Ultimate CEO Award, the Ellis Island Medal of Honor, and membership in the South Florida Business Hall of Fame. The French government honored Fain as a Chevalier de la Legion d'Honneur, while the Finnish government named him a Commander, First Class, of the Order of the Lion.

Fain holds a B.S. degree in economics from the University of California at Berkeley and an M.B.A. from the Wharton School of Business at the University of Pennsylvania. Fain and his wife, Colleen, have four children and six extraordinary grandchildren."

Florida Company Receives License To Export Electric Vehicles To Cuba; Charging Stations From New Jersey-Based Company

On 9 January 2017, after a four-year effort, Miami, Florida-based Premier Automotive Export (PAE), Ltd., a subsidiary of Grand Cayman-based Cayman Automotive (www.caymanautomotive.com), received a license from the Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) of the United States Department of Commerce authorizing the export of electric vehicles and vehicle chargers from the United States to the Republic of Cuba.  PAE became operational in January 2017.

New Paragraph (1/27/17): Mr. Felder, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Cayman Automotive, reported that after contacting a United States-based consultant, making a payment of US$2,500.00 and not receiving the expected support, he chose to directly engage with the licensing staff at the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) of the United States Department of the Treasury and the Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) of the United States Department of Commerce to navigate the licensing process.  From Mr. Felder: "The licensing staff at the OFAC and BIS were excellent in assisting me; we were all seeking to create a license never before attempted... and we did."

Partial text from the PAE application to the BIS: “Electric vehicles will be used by the various embassies as their official government vehicle. Premier Automotive Export is seeking a U.S. Export License to ship 100% electric vehicles and charge stations to Cuba. This new business will not only benefit the Cuban people by reducing the country's carbon footprint, but also by creating jobs and having a positive effect of our economy.”

The BIS license (Click For PDF Text), which is valid until 31 January 2021, requires that all vehicles be exported directly from the United States through the United States-based subsidiary, PAE, and be delivered only to non-Republic of Cuba government-operated entities.

Authorized end-users include, but are not limited to, embassies, private enterprises and non-state businesses, self-employed, and United States-based companies with operations in the Republic of Cuba.  There may be no transfer of ownership unless authorized by the BIS.

Thus far, the government of the Republic of Cuba has not authorized United States-based companies to directly export products to non-Republic of Cuba government-operated entities.

United States-based companies with operations in the Republic of Cuba include Atlanta, Georgia-based Delta Air Lines, the first United States-based company to establish an office since 1961 in the Republic of Cuba; Fort Worth, Texas-based American Airlines which has the largest presence of all United States-based air carriers, has an operations office for its resident country manager and expects to have a ticket office soon; Long Island City, New York-based JetBlue Airways expects to open an office soon; and Stamford, Connecticut-based Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide (a subsidiary of Bethesda, Maryland-based Marriott International), which manages the Four Points Sheraton Havana and this year will add two properties.

The Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) of the United States Department of the Treasury has authorized United States-based companies to have representative offices in the Republic of Cuba.

The company (coordinating through its office in Miami, Florida) is using the Crowley Liner Services twice-weekly container schedule from Port Everglades, Florida, to the Port of Mariel, Republic of Cuba, managed by TC Mariel SA (a subsidiary of Singapore-based PSA International Pte Ltd).

The first Nissan Leaf departed the United States on 8 February 2017.

 

Cayman Compass
Cayman Islands
18 January 2017

Excerpts....

The license stipulates shipment of “one 2015 Nissan Leaf, 100 percent electric four-door sedan with a range of 87 miles on a single charge. The engine is 24 kilowatts and delivers 97 horsepower,” and costs US$24,850.00.

The document describes the station: “Clipper Creek level II charger is a 40 amp charger fitted with the J-1772 universal charging connector,” the same equipment used in Cayman’s charging stations. The license pegs the cost at US$875.00.

Mr. Felder has been operating George Town-based Cayman Automotive since 2005, mostly trading in U.S., Japanese and Chinese trucks and cars. In 2009 he became Cayman’s sole electric-vehicle dealer, selling the first “EV” to Camana Bay and installing almost a dozen-and-a-half charging stations across Grand Cayman, supplying the 52 electric cars on the roads.  The islands boast another 15 gas-electric hybrids.

Guyanese Ambassador to Cuba Halim Majeed thanked Mr. Felder for the initiative: “On behalf of the Government of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana, and, indeed on my own behalf, I would wish to express our gratitude to you for your perseverance in exporting to my embassy a 100 percent electric vehicle,” the ambassador wrote on Jan. 10.

Mr. Felder said he partnered with Advanced Solar Products, Inc., (http://www.advancedsolarproducts.com) based in Flemington, New Jersey, to install 50 charging locations, each costing approximately US$1,000.00, in gas stations across Havana.  “They are going into Havana next month to get operating, and will be shipping chargers next month,” Mr. Felder said, indicating the company may employ Cuban-built solar panels.

In a December 2014 issue of Cuba’s Granma International newspaper, Efren Marcos Espinosa, investment specialist at the Pinar del Rio electric company, said Cuba’s 4,000 solar panels each produced a peak output of 250 watts, saving approximately 8.4 million barrels of crude per year.

Complete Analysis In PDF Format

Ministry of Transport of the Republic of Cuba (MINTRANS): Before 2030, MINTRANS plans for 45% of the total number of vehicles owned by Republic of Cuba government-operated companies will be electric vehicles.  A goal is to introduce more than 56,000 electric vehicles of which about 36,000 will be imported while 17,000 will be retrofitted from existing combustion engine vehicles.  A goal is to install 38,000 charging stations throughout the country with 16,000 fast charging stations and the remainder slow or semi-fast charging stations.  An additional 2,000 slow and fast charging stations will in public places while 180 50KV fast charging stations will be located to supply public services.  The first Cuban company to utilize electric vehicles in the Republic of Cuba was Republic of Cuba government-operated Aguas de la Habana.  The company operates a twenty-two Nissan e-NV200 vehicles.  LINK To YouTube Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uNhxN0aevXc

First Comments From The White House About Cuba Policy

The White House
Washington, DC
24 January 2017

Press Briefing
36:18 of 45:26

Question:

Does the President have any plans to change US policy towards Cuba there are a lot of changes that took place during the last Administration and the Executive Orders as it relates to US-Cuba relations?

Sean Spicer:

I have to follow-up with you we've got nothing that we're ready to announce at this point.

Italy’s Savino del Bene receives license from BIS To Provision Non-US Passenger Vessels In Cuba

Scandicci, Italy-based Savino del Bene SpA (2016 revenues approximately US$1.4 billion) has received a license from the Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) of the United States Department of Commerce to export food products, agricultural commodities and healthcare products from the United States to the Republic of Cuba for use by cruise ships.

The company (coordinating through its office in Miami, Florida) is using the Crowley Liner Services twice-weekly container schedule from Port Everglades, Florida, to the Port of Mariel, Republic of Cuba, managed by TC Mariel SA (a subsidiary of Singapore-based PSA International Pte Ltd).

The significance of this announcement is Savino del Bene SpA is receiving orders from Geneva, Switzerland-based MCS Cruises to provision its vessels upon their arrival to the Port of Havana, Republic of Cuba. 

MSC Cruises operates itineraries including the Republic of Cuba that are not authorized for individuals subject to United States jurisdiction.

MCS Cruises will provide a list of items which will be sourced in the United States and then delivered through the services of a Republic of Cuba-based supply-chain correspondent to the vessel in a sealed container.

BIS authorized exports of product from the United States to the Republic of Cuba specifically for use by passengers (tourists) of a non-United States-based cruise company.  

If United States-based cruise companies with itineraries authorized by the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) of the United States Department of the Treasury seek to use the BIS-licensed provision services of Savino del Bene SpA, the BIS will need amend the existing license.

“The Savino Del Bene Group is a global operator with over 3200 employees, 151 own branches, 66 subsidiary offices, and with the support of over 150 selected correspondents.  Savino Del Bene, whose name is homonymous of its founder, started up in Florence, Italy, at the beginning of the 1900's. The company's early focus was to develop freight forwarding services primarily towards the USA. Today, Savino Del Bene has evolved into a global logistics provider with a worldwide network, specialized in supply chain management, offering services for ocean, air and surface transportation.”

Company Profile In PDF Format

Rex Tillerson, Nominee For Secretary Of State, Submits Written Answers To Cuba Questions; Channels Speaker Ryan From June 2016

Written Question: Will you work with the Treasury Department to ensure that no revenue from American businesses goes directly toward supporting the Cuban military and the regime?

Mr. Rex Tillerson: Yes, if I am confirmed.

NOTE: On 9 June 2016, The Honorable Paul Ryan (R-WI), Speaker of the United States House of Representatives, issued a statement entitled, "Achieving U.S. Security Through Leadership & Liberty"

The second paragraph of the document included this sentence: "A first step should be to ban financial transactions with the Cuban military."

http://www.cubatrade.org/blog/2016/6/11/speaker-of-the-house-paul-ryan-wants-to-rescind-starwood-hotel-management-agreement?rq=Paul%20Ryan

Committee on Foreign Relations
United States Senate
Washington, DC

Written answers by Mr. Rex Tillerson, nominee to be United States Secretary of State, as published by the Committee on Foreign Relations.

Question: Despite the Obama Administration’s controversial and misguided decision to normalize relations with Cuba and its hope that this could lead to improved governance and human rights, Cuban officials continue to arrest dissidents and violate the rights of citizens, and tourism revenues benefit only government officials and a small minority of the population. How do you plan to approach the United States’ relationship with Cuba? How will you support human rights defenders and democracy activists in Cuba? What bilateral and/or multilateral pressure will you exert to lessen authoritarian rule in Cuba?

Tillerson: If confirmed, I will engage with Cuba but continue to press for reform of its oppressive regime. I will support human rights defenders and democracy activists in Cuba, empower civil society, defend freedom of expression, and promote improved Internet access and I will ask our allies to do the same.

Will you continue to support programs that promote democratic voices and initiatives in Cuba like Radio and TV Marti?

Yes, if I am confirmed.

What steps will you take to pressure the Castro regime to return American political fugitives like New Jersey cop-killer Joanne Chesimard?

If confirmed, I will engage bilaterally and multilaterally to bring these fugitives to justice.

Will you work with the Treasury Department to ensure that no revenue from American businesses goes directly toward supporting the Cuban military and the regime?

Yes, if I am confirmed.

NOTE: On 9 June 2016, The Honorable Paul Ryan (R-WI), Speaker of the United States House of Representatives, issued a statement entitled, "Achieving U.S. Security Through Leadership & Liberty"  The second paragraph of the document included this sentence: "A first step should be to ban financial transactions with the Cuban military."  http://www.cubatrade.org/blog/2016/6/11/speaker-of-the-house-paul-ryan-wants-to-rescind-starwood-hotel-management-agreement?rq=Paul%20Ryan

What steps will you take to encourage the government of Cuba to release political prisoners, artists, journalists, and other Cubans being detained for politically-motivated reasons?

If confirmed, I will press Cuba to meet its pledge to become more democratic and consider placing conditions on trade or travel policies to motivate the release of political prisoners.

What steps will you take to promote judicial reform in Cuba?

I will work bilaterally and multilaterally to identify training and technical assistance opportunities to assist with judicial reform, if I am confirmed.

On October 12, 2016, PEOTUS Donald Trump stated, “The people of Cuba have struggled too long. Will reverse Obama’s Executive Orders and concessions towards Cuba until freedoms are restored.” Do you stand by PEOTUS Trump’s commitment to reverse the Obama Administration’s Cuba regulations until freedoms are restored on the island?

Yes. There will be a comprehensive review of current policies and executive orders regarding Cuba to determine how best to pressure Cuba to respect human rights and promote democratic changes.

On October 14, 2016, VPEOTUS Mike Pence reiterated this commitment by stating, “When Donald Trump and I take to the White House, we will reverse Barack Obama’s executive orders on Cuba.” Do you stand by VPEOTUS Pence’s commitment to reverse the Obama Administration’s Cuba regulations?

Yes, if I am confirmed.

Cuba Comic Con Expo To Havana In May 2017

Warwick, NY (January 9, 2017) – Martin Glynn, CEO of MAD Event Management announced today that they have partnered with Paradiso, the Cuban cultural agency, to produce Cuba Comic Expo, being held in Havana, Cuba on May 19-21, 2017.

This cultural exchange program will welcome creators from the aligned pop culture worlds of comic book, animation, storytelling and other creative arts to Havana for a unique and historic event. 

MAD will sponsor comic, animation, prose and other creators to join them in Cuba and will facilitate meetings with their Cuban peers, as well as to produce content for a two-day public event to be held at Pavilion in Cuba’s capital city of Havana.

The program will feature tours of relevant cultural institutions in Havana, followed by networking sessions with peers from Cuba.

There will be a public exposition on May 20 & 21 where the creators will be introduced to fans through a series of curated Question & Answer sessions and panel discussions. Featured artwork and scripts from the creators will be presented in a museum-like setting.

“We’ve been investigating the concept of producing an event in Cuba for nearly a year, and were thrilled to receive formal approval to move forward. The opportunities for both sides are incredible with knowledge and skill sharing between the two countries’ brightest and most creative professionals,” said Marty Glynn, CEO of MAD Event Management. “We will be announcing more specific details over the next month, and will offer people in related industries to join us as part of a Fam Tour (familiarization tour). There will also be a limited number of sponsor and exhibitor opportunities available.”

For more information about the event, you may reach Marty Glynn at marty@madeventmanagement.com.

About MAD Event Management:

MAD Event Management is an all-purpose event planning facilitator whose principal owner has over 15 years of experience producing annual large-scale consumer conventions around the country, including Los Angeles, New York, Philadelphia, Chicago and Dallas. MAD's capabilities include: Site Selection, Exhibit Staffing, Marketing Plans, Vendor Selection, Floor Plan Development, On-Site Execution, Sponsor Exhibitor Sales, Travel Management, Contract Development, Setup & Disassembly and Contract Coordination. Visit www.madeventmanagement.com for additional information.

The comic book/character/entertainment industry in the United States had gross revenues of more than US$3 billion in 2016.

Media Release In PDF Format

Cuba Port Representatives Visiting Six Ports In The United States

A delegation of representatives from port facilities in the Republic of Cuba is visiting the United States from 21 January 2017 to 3 February 2017.

The Trump Administration did not seek to cancel or delay the visit.

The delegation includes: Eradis Gonzalez de la Peña, CEO of Almacenes Universales S.A.; Ernesto Viñas Betancourt, advisor of the Vice Minister of Transportation of Cuba; Ana Teresa Igarza Martinez, general director of Mariel Special Development Zone (ZEDM); Tania Vazquez Garcia, official within the Trade Policy Division with North America, Ministry of Foreign Trade and Investment; Rene Rolando Fernandez de Lara Cabazas, director of Inland Waterway and Sea Transport, Cuban Ministry of Transport; Joe Lago, First Secretary, Embassy of Cuba; and Jose Leonardo Sosa Barrios, Deputy Director, Mariel Container Terminal, Port Mariel.

The schedule includes visits to six (6) port facilities (including Houston, Texas, and a visit to Austin, Texas; Port of New Orleans, Louisiana; Port of Norfolk, Virginia) and to Washington DC; and signing of memorandums of understanding (MOU) between the National Port Administration of Cuba and ports in Florida (Palm Beach, Port Everglades; Tampa) and in Alabama.

The delegation from the Republic of Cuba will attend a conference on 2/3 February 2017 in Tampa, Florida, hosted by the Alexandria, Virginia-based American Association of Port Authorities.

Port_sign.jpg

22 Bilateral Documents Signed From 17 December 2014 To 20 January 2017

During the 766-day period 17 December 2014 through 20 January 2017, the United States and government of the Republic of Cuba executed twenty-two (22) bilateral documents.  There are four (4) binding documents and one (1) treaty requiring ratification.

The categories of the documents include agreement, arrangement, memorandum of understanding, pilot plan, joint statement, and treaty.

Federal Air Marshals Arrangement (7/7/16)
Pilot Plan for Direct Transportation of Mail (3/11/16)
Civil Aviation Arrangement (2/16/16)
Health MOU (6/13/16)
Cancer Research MOU (10/20/16)
Agriculture MOU (5/5/16)
Environmental Protection Joint Statement (11/24/15)
Marine Protected Areas MOU (11/18/15)
Hydrography MOU (3/18/16)
Counternarcotics (CN) (7/21/16)
DHS-MININT (5/5/16)
INTERPOL (10/15)
Wildlife Conservation and Terrestrial Protected Areas (12/21/16)
Meteorology (12/21/16)
Seismology (12/20/16)
Oil Spill Preparedness and Response Agreement (1/1/2017)
Law Enforcement MOU (1/16/17)
Migration Joint Statement (12/1/17)
Search and Rescue (1/18/17)
Maritime Boundaries (1/18/17)
Sister Parks (1/1817)
USDA/APHIS (1/18/17)

While the number, the varied subject matter, and the depth of documents executed by the Obama Administration and government of the Republic of Cuba during the last two years is significant, important to acknowledge that not all are binding; and the one treaty needs to be ratified by the United States Senate.

Thus, the commercial, economic and political bilateral relationship between the United States and Republic of Cuba remains tentative, fragile, and immensely subject to the impact of winds from the north and winds from the south.

A goal for the Trump Administration is to use its time in Washington to create with the government of the Republic of Cuba a bilateral relationship that doesn't depend upon unlimited quantities of glue to keep it together.

 

US & Cuba Sign USDA/APHIS Agreement

The United States Department of State did not issue a statement relating to the following:

Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Cuba
Havana, Republic of Cuba

"January 20, 2017.- On Thursday, January 19, 2017, a Memorandum of Understanding for cooperation was signed between the Divisions of Animal and Plant Health of the Ministry of Agriculture of Cuba and the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service of the US Department of Agriculture.

This new bilateral instrument provides a specific framework for the cooperation in the field of animal and plant health, which complements the provisions of the MOU on the cooperation in the field of agriculture and other related areas signed on March 21, 2016 by the Minister of Agriculture of Cuba and the US Secretary of Agriculture.

This new Memorandum is mainly intended to contribute to prevent the introduction and spread of quarantine pests, animal and plant disease agents and vectors in the United States and Cuba through the exchange of scientific information, best practices for the prevention and control of plagues and emerging diseases, collaborative scientific projects, including the use of technology, research and surveillance, and the holding of events on specific aspects of animal and plant health.

The Memorandum was signed on behalf of Cuba by H.E. José Ramón Cabañas, Ambassador of Cuba to the United States while Mr. Elvis S. Córdoba, Under Secretary a.i. for Marketing and Regulatory Programs in the US Department of Agriculture signed for the United States."

United States and Cuba Sign Maritime Boundary Treaty

The last treaty negotiated and signed between the United States and the Republic of Cuba was the Cuba-United States Maritime Boundary Agreement, signed on 16 December 1977, but never ratified by the United States Senate.  The two governments have maintained to respect the negotiated boundaries in absence of a treaty.

The new treaty is considered to be similar to the treaty of 1977; some view it as a replacement.

United States Department of State
Washington, DC
18 January 2017

Today in Washington, D.C., the United States signed a bilateral treaty with Cuba to delimit their maritime boundary in the eastern Gulf of Mexico.

The treaty delimits the only part of the U.S.-Cuba maritime boundary that had not previously been agreed, and covers an area of continental shelf in the eastern Gulf of Mexico that is more than 200 nautical miles from any country’s shore. The treaty is consistent with the longstanding U.S. goals to resolve our outstanding maritime boundaries and promote maritime safety and protection of the marine environment. Before entry into force, the treaty will warrant the advice and consent of the U.S. Senate.

Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Cuba
Havana, Republic of Cuba
18 January 2017

WASHINGTON, Jan. 18, 2017 .- On Wednesday afternoon, the Treaty between the Republic of Cuba and the United States of America on the Delimitation of the Continental Shelf was signed at the headquarters of the State Department in Washington. The Eastern Polygon of the Gulf of Mexico beyond 200 Nautical Miles. On the Cuban side signed the agreement José Ramón Cabañas Rodríguez, Cuba's ambassador to the United States, and the US side, Mari Carmen Aponte, special adviser for the Western Hemisphere Affairs of the State Department.

With the signing of this Agreement, the continental shelf between the Republic of Cuba and the United States of America in the Eastern Polygon of the Gulf of Mexico was delimited, in accordance with International Law, beyond 200 Nautical Miles. This document provides legal certainty to the Parties for the exercise of their rights of jurisdiction and sovereignty over that maritime area.  (Cubaminrex-Embacuba United States)

Embassy Of Cuba Reportedly Not Included Among 147 Government Representatives Invited To Dinner With President-Elect Trump; Was Invited To Swearing-In Ceremony

On 17 January 2017, President-Elect Donald J. Trump attended the Chairman's Global Dinner at the Andrew W. Mellon auditorium in Washington DC. 

The Honorable Mike Pence, Vice President-Elect of the United States, confirmed that 147 representatives of governments were invited to the event. 

The Presidential Inaugural Committee has not responded to inquiries as to whether a representative of the government of the Republic of Cuba was invited to the event.

The Embassy of the Republic of Cuba in Washington DC has neither reported receiving an invitation to the event nor sending a representative to the event.

The Embassy of the Republic of Cuba reported that H.E. José Ramón Cabañas, Ambassador of the Republic of Cuba to the United States, was among foreign delegation leadership invited to attend the swearing-in ceremony on 20 January 2017 at The Capitol.

US Signs Search & Rescue Binding Agreement With Cuba; MINREX Confirms Before US

Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Cuba
Havana, Republic of Cuba

"CUBA, January 18, 2017.- On Wednesday, January 18, the "Agreement between the Government of the Republic of Cuba and the Government of the United States of America on Aeronautical and Maritime Search and Rescue" was signed. His signature was in charge of the deputy minister of Transportation, Marta Oramas Rivero, and the charge d'affaires a.i. Of the United States Embassy in Havana, Jeffrey DeLaurentis.

The objective of this legally binding instrument is to strengthen cooperation in aeronautical and maritime search and rescue. In this sense, it will allow the coordinated action of both countries in assisting people in danger, as a result of air or sea events.

Such cooperation could include joint exercises, periodic checks of communication channels, reciprocal visits by experts and exchange of information.

The signing of this agreement ratifies the importance that Cuba grants to the search and rescue aeronautical and maritime of people in danger, and constitutes a positive step for the improvement of the relations between the two countries. (Cubaminrex-MITRANS website)"

United States Department of State
Office of the Spokesperson
Washington, DC

"Today, the United States and Cuba signed a bilateral agreement to strengthen cooperation in the field of maritime and aeronautical search and rescue. The agreement aims to enhance effectiveness and efficiency in assisting persons in distress and to act in furtherance of obligations under international law.

The agreement provides for cooperation and coordination between the United States and Cuba in assisting persons in distress at sea, subject to each country’s respective domestic laws.

Chargé d’Affaires of the U.S. Embassy in Havana, Jeffrey DeLaurentis, signed the agreement on behalf of the United States, and Deputy Minister of Transportation Marta Oramas Rivero signed for the Republic of Cuba."

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US Exports Increase 70% In November & Increase 20% For Eleven Months Of 2016

ECONOMIC EYE ON CUBA©
January 2017

November Food/Ag Exports Increased 70% Compared To 2015- 1
21% Increase For Eleven Months Of 2016 Compared To 2015- 1
2015/2016 Will Be First Year-To-Year Increase Since 2011/2012- 2
Healthcare Product Exports Continue To Increase- 2
Humanitarian Donations- 3
Obama Administration Initiatives Product Exports- 3
U.S. Port Export Data- 13
2017 Speaking Schedule- 15

NOVEMBER FOOD/AG EXPORTS INCREASE 70%- Exports of food products & agricultural commodities from the United States to the Republic of Cuba in November 2016 were US$10,594,557.00 compared to US$6,243,680.00 in November 2015 and US$12,452,614.00 in November 2014.  

COMPLETE REPORT IN PDF FORMAT

US & Cuba Sign Law Enforcement MOU

Western Hemisphere: United States and Cuba To Sign Law Enforcement Memorandum of Understanding

On January 16, the United States and Cuba signed a bilateral Law Enforcement Memorandum of Understanding to deepen law enforcement cooperation and information sharing.

Under this memorandum, the United States and Cuba will continue the Law Enforcement Dialogue process, which includes technical exchanges on specific law enforcement issues of mutual concern such as counternarcotics, money laundering, fraud and human smuggling, and counterterrorism.

U.S. Embassy Havana Chargé d’Affaires Jeffrey DeLaurentis signed for the United States and Minister of the Interior Vice Admiral Julio César Gandarilla signed on behalf of Cuba. This MOU was negotiated as part of the Law Enforcement Dialogue, which is co-chaired for the United States by the Departments of Justice, State, and Homeland Security.

Cuba and US sign Memorandum of Understanding on Cooperation in Areas Associated with National Security

CUBA, January 17, 2017.- The governments of the Republic of Cuba and the United States of America signed Monday in Havana a Memorandum of Understanding for Cooperation in Enforcement and Enforcement of the Law that will allow the promotion and expansion of Bilateral ties in important areas of national security in both countries.

The parties agreed to increase coordination for the prevention and confrontation of terrorist acts; Illicit trafficking in narcotic drugs; Crimes committed through the use of information and communication technologies, and cybersecurity issues of mutual interest; Trafficking in persons; Smuggling of migrants; The traffic of flora and fauna; Money laundering; The falsification of identity and travel documents; Smuggling, including firearms, their parts, components, ammunition, explosives, cash and monetary instruments; Among other crimes under the jurisdiction of both countries.

The memorandum was signed by Vice-Admiral Julio Cesar Gandarilla Bermejo, Minister of Interior of the Republic of Cuba and by Ambassador Jeffrey DeLaurentis, Chargé d'affaires of the US Embassy. In Havana.

The signing ceremony of the memorandum was attended by Benjamín Rhodes, US deputy national security adviser, who is on an official visit to the island, as well as representatives of the Defense and National Security Commission and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Cuba (Cubaminrex-Granma)

Deputy National Security Advisor To Havana On Martin Luther King Day Federal Holiday

Today, The Honorable Benjamin Rhodes, Assistant to the President and Deputy National Security Advisor, is traveling aboard a United States military aircraft from Joint Base Andrews (JBA) to Jose Marti International Airport (HAV) in Havana, Republic of Cuba, on Martin Luther King Day, a United States federal holiday.

Unlike his visit to the Republic of Cuba in December 2016, which was not announced in advance and only made public in conjunction with funeral arrangements for H.E. Dr. Fidel Castro Ruz, former president of the Republic of Cuba, this visit was reported in a media release issued by the National Security Council (NSC) this morning.

Post About December 2016 Visit: http://www.cubatrade.org/blog/2016/11/30/deputy-national-security-advisor-ben-rhodes-to-cuba-was-to-have-been-secret-visit?rq=ben%20rhodes

THE WHITE HOUSE
Office of the Press Secretary
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 16, 2017

Statement by NSC Spokesperson Ned Price on Deputy National Security Advisor Ben Rhodes' Travel to Cuba

On Monday, January 16, Deputy National Security Advisor Ben Rhodes will travel to Cuba for official meetings, cultural engagements, and to witness the signing of a U.S.-Cuba Law Enforcement Memorandum of Understanding (MOU).  The arrangement will establish a framework for strengthening our partnership on counternarcotics, counterterrorism, legal cooperation, and money laundering, including technical exchanges that contribute to a strong U.S.-Cuba law enforcement relationship. Mr. Rhodes' trip to Cuba follows last week's announcement that the Department of Homeland Security has ended the so-called "wet-foot/dry foot" policy as well as the Cuban Medical Professional Parole Program – another step forward to normalize relations with Cuba and to bring greater consistency to our immigration policy.

Since the President's December 2014 announcement, we have worked with the people and the Government of Cuba to take steps to normalize our relations – re-establishing diplomatic relations, opening embassies, expanding travel and commercial opportunities, and launching initiatives to help our people cooperate and innovate. The United States and Cuba have reached more than a dozen arrangements to expand cooperation in areas such as health, medical research, agriculture, environmental cooperation, hydrography, marine protected areas, counternarcotics, civil aviation, and direct transportation of mail.

The goals of the President’s Cuba policy have been simple:  to help the Cuban people achieve a better future for themselves and to advance the interests of the United States. While significant differences between our governments continue, the progress of the last two years reminds the world of what is possible when we are defined not by the past but by the future we can build together.

Starr Companies Seeking To Establish Commercial & Personal Insurance Coverage In Cuba

The establishment of a fully-operational commercial and personal insurance environment is essential for a viable, sustainable and expansive United States business presence in the Republic of Cuba.  

The availability of commercial insurance ‎is essential for a full-scale resumption of a vibrant United States financial presence to and within the Republic of Cuba.

Mr. Maurice R. Greenberg, Chairman of Starr Companies, visited the Republic of Cuba on 14 January 2016 and 18 June 2015.  Mr. Greenberg is the Chairman of New York, New York-based Starr Companies and the former Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of New York, New York-based American International Group (AIG).

“Starr Companies (or Starr) is the worldwide marketing name for the operating insurance and travel assistance companies and subsidiaries of Starr International Company, Inc. and for the investment business of C.V. Starr & Co., Inc. and its subsidiaries.   Starr is a leading insurance and investment organization with a presence on five continents; through its operating insurance companies, Starr provides property, casualty, and accident & health insurance products as well as a range of specialty coverages including aviation, marine, energy and excess casualty insurance.  Starr’s insurance company subsidiaries domiciled in the U.S., Bermuda, Hong Kong and Singapore each have an A.M. Best rating of “A” (Excellent).  Starr’s Lloyd’s syndicate has a Standard & Poor’s rating of “A+” (Strong).  Starr’s insurance company subsidiary domiciled in China has an A.M. Best rating of “A-” (Excellent).”

Media Release Excerpts:

Starr Companies’ Assist Card Smalline S.A. Signs Letter of Intent with Asistur S.A., a Cuban Domiciled Company
July 06, 2016

New York, NY – July 6, 2016 – Starr Companies announced today that Assist Card Smalline S.A. “Assist Card,” a wholly owned subsidiary, signed a Letter of Intent with Asistur S.A. “Asistur,” domiciled in Cuba, to provide travel assistance services to the growing number of authorized travelers to Cuba.  Assist Card and Asistur signed the agreement during a recent visit to Havana, Cuba. 

“Agreements like these are important steps in expanding trade relationships between U.S. and Cuban companies,” says Maurice R. Greenberg, Chairman, Starr Companies. “We look forward to continued efforts.”

Starr Companies Statement on Cuba
February 23, 2015

New York, NY – Monday, February 23, 2015 – As certain U.S.-imposed travel and other restrictions regarding Cuba have recently been eased, many U.S. travelers and businesses are considering new opportunities in the country. Maurice R. Greenberg, Chairman of Starr International Company, Inc., issued a statement noting Starr Companies’ unique and historic relationship with Cuba.

“We are at the beginning of what could be new opportunities as Cuba and the United States explore ways of ending years of travel and trade restrictions,” Greenberg says. “Starr is committed to assisting clients that wish to explore their own opportunities in Cuba.”

Starr Companies established its international headquarters in Havana, Cuba in 1943, after it relocated from Shanghai, China. It operated there for nearly 15 years, until it relocated to Bermuda, after diplomatic relations between the United States and Cuba were severed in 1961.

The U.S. began easing restrictions on travel to Cuba on January 16, 2015, thereby prompting large numbers of U.S. individual and business travelers to begin planning visits to Cuba for the purpose of exploring potential local business, cultural and educational opportunities. However, the development of any such opportunities will take time and patience, as the Cuban people and government adjust to an evolving diplomatic and economic relationship with the United States.

Assist-Card International Holdings SA, a Starr subsidiary, operates a leading global travel assistance services business that is uniquely positioned to provide travel assistance services and insurance to individuals seeking to travel to Cuba.

“The challenges of doing business in Cuba are substantial,” Greenberg says. “But Starr is well-positioned and prepared to leverage our relationships and global network to support our clients’ entry into this market.”

Booking.com- Accepting US Credit Cards For Pre-Payment: 9 Properties In October, 46 In December, 53 In January

As of 16 January 2017, fifty-three (53) properties are listed available for booking using the reservation system of Amsterdam, Netherlands-based www.booking.com, which is owned by Norwalk, Connecticut-based The Priceline Group (more than US$55 billion in gross bookings in 2016).  They include:

Casa Teresa Un Santiago De Cuba
Hostal1511
Hostal Rio Miel
Hotel El Castillo
Hotel La Habernera
Hotel La Rusa
Hotel los Helechos
Hotel Playa Coco All-Inclusive
Hotel Playa Costa Verde All-Inclusive
Hotel Playa Pesquero All-Inclusive
Hotel El Bosque
Hotel Kohly
Hotel Playa Coco All-Inclusive
Hotel Playa Pesquero Premium All-Inclusive – Adults Only
Hotel Porto Santo
Hotel Villa Maguana
Melia Buena Vista- Adults Only
Melia Cayo Coco- Adults Only
Melia Cayo Guillermo
Melia Cayo Santa Maria
Melia Cohiba
Melia Habana
Melia Jardines del Rey
Melia las Americas- Adults Only
Melia las Antillas- Adults Only
Melia Las Dunas
Melia Marina Varadero Apartments
Melia Peninsula Varadero
Melia Santiago de Cuba
Melia Varadero
Memories Caribe- Adults Only
Memories Jibacoa- Adults Only
Memories Miramar Habana
NH Capri La Habana
Paradisus Princesa del Mar- Adults Only
Paradisus Rio de Oro Resort & Spa- Adults Only
Paradisus Varadero
Playa Coco Santa Maria All-Inclusive
Royalton Hicacos- Adults Only
Royalton Cayo Santa Maria- Adults Only
Sol Cayo Coco
Sol Cayo Guillermo
Sol Cayo Largo
Sol Cayo Santa Maria
Sol Palmeras
Sol Rio de Luna y Mares
Sol Sirenas Coral Resort
Starfish Las Palmas
Starfish Montehabana
Tryp Cayo Coco
Tryp Habana Libre
Villa Caburni
Villa Cayo Saetia
Villa Pinares de Mayari

According to the company, "Our team is working each and every day with our hotel partners throughout Cuba to expand Booking.com’s offering of bookable properties."

"Regarding your question of our payment process in Cuba, for U.S. travelers booking a Cuban stay, Booking.com collects payment from the guests through our platform at the time the reservation is made and then transfers payment to the hotel partner."