Debbie-Ann Wright, News Editor - Radio

KINGSTON, Jamaica:
Reacting to today's announcement of a new policy between the United States and Cuba, Prime Minister Portia Simpson Miller said normalisation of the relationship between the two countries is a victory for all the peoples of the Americas.

She says Jamaica looks forward to the tangible benefits that the new engagement will bring for the Cuban people and the Caribbean region.

READ: What does the new Cuba-US policy mean for Jamaica

The Prime Minister notes that the move brings US and Cuban foreign policies in line with modern international diplomatic arrangements.

Simpson Miller also says it vindicates the position taken repeatedly by the majority of nations for an end to the US trade embargo and other attempts to isolate Cuba.

READ: Some things to expect from new Cuba-US policy

Meanwhile, the Opposition Spokesman on tourism, Ed Bartlett has also welcomed today’s announcement.

He says he anticipates that there will be new opportunities for discussions on trade and also deeper economic collaboration between Jamaica, Cuba and the USA, particularly in tourism and the development of the country’s logistics hub capabilities.

Bartlett says the opposition encourages continued steps towards the full removal of the trade embargo.

Meanwhile, Industry and Commerce Minister Anthony Hylton says the easing of the economic restrictions between the United States and Cuba could impact trade in Jamaica.

Hylton says he does not anticipate competition from Cuba because of the lifting of economic restrictions by the US.

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