The Cuban American National Foundation  www.canf.org

PRESS RELEASE 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                              CONTACT
May 20, 2002                                              Joe Garcia (305) 592-7768

CANF APPLAUDS BUSH INITIATIVE ON CUBA

WASHINGTON - Today, on the 100^th anniversary of Cuba’s independence, the Cuban American National Foundation (CANF) praised President George W. Bush’s announcement of the "Initiative for a New Cuba," a series of pro-active measures to help bring about a transition to democracy on the island. The initiative includes assistance to families of Cuban political prisoners, scholarships for Cuban university students, and increased direct humanitarian aid to the people of Cuba.

"President Bush today has reiterated his unwavering support for the Cuban people and their struggle for freedom, aligning U.S. foreign policy more closely than ever before with the efforts of Cuba’s democracy activists" said CANF Chairman, Jorge Mas Santos.

While recognizing the Project Varela petition drive and the 11,000 brave individuals who have signed the document requesting a referendum on human rights and civil liberties, the President raised the bar by challenging the Castro regime to hold free and fair, internationally-monitored elections in 2003.

The President also made clear that current sanctions on Cuba are a vital tool in fostering the fundamental change desired by the Cuban people. At the same time, he provided a road map for the eventual lifting of sanctions contingent on the introduction of basic political and economic freedoms on the island.

"It is especially heartening that on the 100^th anniversary of Cuban independence, President Bush has sent this message of hope and solidarity to the people of Cuba," Mas said. "The President’s initiative is a powerful restatement of America’s commitment to help hasten the day when Cubans may once again enjoy freedom and self-determination."

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