Booking.com Now Has 9 Hotels In Cuba- Can Prepay Online Using US Credit Cards

As of 17 October 2016, the following nine (9) properties are available for booking using the reservation system of Amsterdam, Netherlands-based www.booking.com, which is owned by Norwalk, Connecticut-based The Priceline Group (US$55 billion in gross bookings in 2015):

1.       Hotel Playa Coco All-Inclusive
2.       NH Capri La Habana
3.       Hotel Playa Costa Verde All-Inclusive
4.       Hotel Playa Pesquero All-Inclusive
5.       Playa Coco Santa Maria All-Inclusive
6.       Hotel El Bosque
7.       Hotel Kohly
8.       Hotel Playa Pesquero Premium All-Inclusive – Adults Only
9.       Casa Teresa Un Santiago De Cuba

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."

U.S.-Cuba Human Rights Dialogue... One Party Is More Vocal Than The Other.

Media Note
Office of the Spokesperson
Washington, DC

October 13, 2016

Assistant Secretary for the Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor Tom Malinowski and Acting Assistant Secretary for Western Hemisphere Affairs Mari Carmen Aponte will travel to Havana, Cuba, October 13-15, to co-chair the U.S. delegation for the U.S.-Cuba Human Rights Dialogue.

The U.S.-Cuba Human Rights Dialogue will take place on October 14 in Havana, where officials will discuss the protection of universal human rights in Cuba and the United States. The U.S. delegation will include Ambassador-at-Large for International Religious Freedom David Saperstein, Special Representative for International Labor Affairs Sarah Fox, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Western Hemisphere Affairs John Creamer, U.S. Embassy Havana Charge d’Affaires Jeffrey DeLaurentis, and interagency representatives from the U.S. Department of Justice and the U.S. Election Assistance Commission. Ambassador Pedro Luis Pedroso Cuesta, Ministry of Foreign Relations Deputy General Director of Multilateral Affairs and International Law will lead the Cuban delegation.

From the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Cuba:

Havana, October 14th 2016. On Friday, October 14th, the second round of the dialogue on human rights between Cuba and the United States took place. Delegations were headed by Ambassador Pedro Luis Pedroso Cuesta, Deputy Director General of the Multilateral Affairs and International Law Division of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Cuba, and Tomasz Malinowski, Assistant Secretary, Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor of the Department of State of the United States.

The dialogue, in which both parts addressed matters of their interest, was held in a professional and respectful climate, marked by profound differences.

Cuban representatives defended the universality, indivisibility and interdependency of all human rights, and ratified that economic, social and cultural rights should be equally addressed as civil and political rights. They also reaffirmed the need to develop this kind of exchange in full respect for sovereign equality, independence and non-interference in internal affairs.

The Cuban delegation outlined its national reality on the matters under discussion, including the achievements in the promotion and protection of human rights, not only in the benefit of its own people, but also the peoples of many other nations in the world.

As an example of Cuba’s commitment to the protection of human rights, its representatives underscored the high level of ratification of international human rights instruments by the country, being State party to 44 out of 61 of these instruments. They remarked the contrast with the fact that the United States has assumed obligations only towards 18 of these instruments.

Also, Cuban representatives stressed that the economic, commercial and financial blockade suffered and endured by the Cuban people for more than 50 years constitutes a mass, flagrant and systematic violation of its human rights. They stated that if the US Government really intends to promote policies to help Cubans, the imperative is to eliminate the standing restrictions in order to contribute with determination to dismantle this persistent and unjust policy.

The Cuban part also conveyed its concerns regarding the respect for and guarantees to human rights in the United States, including the documented violations to the right to life in light of the deaths by firearms and the police brutality and abuse, in particular against the African American population, and the growing citizen insecurity.

The Cuban delegation mentioned other concerning phenomena in the United States reality. For example: salary inequality between men and women; discrimination against migrants and minorities; low level of unionization and the restrictions therefor; absence of access to social security, health care and education services of many Americans; child labor; and increasing and gross manifestations of racism and racial discrimination.

The Cuban delegation highlighted the human rights violations perpetrated by the United States in other parts of the world, especially in the context of the so-called war on terrorism. In this regard, the delegation emphasized on the acts of torture committed in secret detention centers operated by U.S. forces and the extrajudicial executions, including civilian deaths by the use of drones. The delegation was particularly critical on the topic of the detention center maintained by the U.S. in the illegally occupied territory of the Naval Base in Guantánamo and the tortures and gross violations perpetrated there.

The Cuban delegation drew attention on the double standards and selectivity that prevails in the review and the importance of the right to development, peace and other rights that are indispensable for a comprehensive exercise of all human rights, on which prevails a complicit silence by the mass media.

Even though the exchange of views demonstrated once again that there are profound differences between both governments regarding visions and the exercise of human rights, Cuba ratified its willingness for both countries to relate to each other in a civilized manner within the acknowledgement of and respect to those differences, and to address any subject on the basis of equality, respect, and reciprocity.  (Cubaminrex)

US Food/AG Exports To Cuba Increase 664%, But Remain Off 10% Thus Far In 2016

ECONOMIC EYE ON CUBA©
October 2016

July Food/Ag Exports Increased 664%- 1
Decreased 10% For First Eight Months Of 2016- 1
Healthcare Product Exports- 2
Humanitarian Donations- 2
American Airlines Imports Equipment To Cuba From Jamaica- 13
U.S. Port Export Data- 13
Updated Speaking Schedule- 15

August FOOD/AG EXPORTS INCREASED 664%- Exports of food products & agricultural commodities from the United States to the Republic of Cuba in August 2016 were US$17,227,971.00 compared to US$2,254,957.00 in August 2015 and US$14,369,461.00 in August 2014.  

Exports in August 2016 consisted of poultry, corn, soybeans, cookies, beer, and chocolate.

An outbreak of Avian Flu had restricted United States poultry exports to the Republic of Cuba in 2015.  In June 2015, July 2015, and September 2015, Republic of Cuba government-operated Empresa Cubana Importadora Alimentos (Alimport), under the auspice of the Ministry of Foreign Trade of Cuba (MINCEX), used a credit facility to purchase frozen poultry from Brazil.  Poultry prices were high in 2014, low in 2015 and are expected to remain low throughout 2016.  Alimport is expected to purchase between 8,400 metric tons and 12,000 metric tons of frozen poultry per month from United States-based companies in 2016.

The Trade Sanctions Reform and Export Enhancement Act (TSREEA) of 2000 re-authorized the direct commercial (on a cash basis) export of food products (including branded food products) and agricultural products (commodities) from the United States to the Republic of Cuba, irrespective of purpose.  The TSREEA does not include healthcare products, which remain authorized by Cuban Democracy Act (CDA) of 1992.

Total exports since December 2001 from the United States to the Republic of Cuba under provisions of the TSREEA are US$5,219,556,384.00

Complete report in PDF Format.

New Cuba Regulations From The OFAC And BIS

LINK To New Regulations- OFAC

LINK To New Regulations- BIS

U.S. Treasury Department
Office of Public Affairs
 
Embargoed UNTIL 9:00 AM EDT:  October 14, 2016
Contact:   Jamie Obal, Treasury Public Affairs, (202) 622-2960
Eugene Cottilli, Commerce Public Affairs, (202) 482-2721

Treasury and Commerce Announce FURTHER Amendments to Cuba Sanctions Regulations

Amendments Expand Venues for Scientific Collaboration, Facilitate Increased Humanitarian Support, and Bolster Trade and Commercial Opportunities

WASHINGTON – Today, the Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) and the Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) are announcing new amendments to the Cuban Assets Control Regulations (CACR) and Export Administration Regulations (EAR), respectively.  These amendments help create more economic opportunity for Cubans and Americans, further implementing the direction toward Cuba that President Obama laid out in December 2014.  The changes will take effect on October 17, 2016, when the regulations are published in the Federal Register.

“President Obama’s historic announcement in December 2014 charted a new course for a stronger, more open U.S.-Cuba relationship,” said Treasury Secretary Jacob J. Lew.  “The Treasury Department has worked to break down economic barriers in areas such as travel, trade and commerce, banking, and telecommunications.  Today’s action builds on this progress by enabling more scientific collaboration, grants and scholarships, people-to-people contact, and private sector growth.  These steps have the potential to accelerate constructive change and unlock greater economic opportunity for Cubans and Americans.”

“These amendments will create more opportunities for Cuban citizens to access American goods and services, further strengthening the ties between our two countries,” said U.S. Secretary of Commerce Penny Pritzker. “More commercial activity between the U.S. and Cuba benefits our people and our economies.”

These changes are intended to expand opportunities for scientific collaboration by authorizing certain transactions related to Cuban-origin pharmaceuticals and joint medical research; improve living conditions for Cubans by expanding existing authorizations for grants and humanitarian-related services; increase people-to-people contact in Cuba by facilitating authorized travel and commerce; facilitate safe travel between the United States and Cuba by authorizing civil aviation safety-related services; and bolster trade and commercial opportunities by expanding and streamlining authorizations relating to trade and commerce.  These amendments also implement certain technical and conforming changes.  OFAC and BIS are making these amendments in support of the process of normalizing bilateral relations with Cuba.

To see the Treasury regulations, which can be found at 31 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), part 515, please see here.  To see the Commerce regulations, which can be found at 15 CFR parts 730-774, please see here.  Significant changes in the revised Treasury and Commerce regulations are outlined below:

Health-related Transactions –

Expanding Opportunities for Scientific Collaboration and Access to Medical Innovations

·       Joint medical research.  OFAC is issuing a new authorization that will allow persons subject to U.S. jurisdiction to engage in joint medical research projects with Cuban nationals.  This authorization will encompass both non-commercial and commercial research.

·       Cuban-origin pharmaceuticals.  OFAC is issuing a new authorization that will allow transactions incident to obtaining U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval of Cuban-origin pharmaceuticals.  An additional authorization will allow the importation into the United States, and the marketing, sale, or other distribution in the United States, of FDA-approved Cuban-origin pharmaceuticals.

·       Bank accounts.  Persons subject to U.S. jurisdiction engaging in the aforementioned health-related activities will also be authorized to open and maintain bank accounts in Cuba for use in conducting the authorized business.

Humanitarian-related Transactions –

Providing Additional Grant Opportunities and Strengthening Cuban Infrastructure

·       Grants, scholarships, and awards.  OFAC is expanding the authorization for grants, scholarships, and awards to Cuba or Cuban nationals to include grants, scholarships, and awards related to scientific research and religious activities.

·       Services related to Cuban infrastructure.  OFAC is adding a new authorization that will allow persons subject to U.S. jurisdiction to provide services to Cuba or Cuban nationals related to developing, repairing, maintaining, and enhancing certain Cuban infrastructure in order to directly benefit the Cuban people.

Travel-related Transactions –

Supporting People-to-People Contact by Facilitating Authorized Travel and Commerce

·       Importation of Cuban-origin merchandise as accompanied baggage for personal use. OFAC is removing the monetary value limitations on what authorized travelers may import from Cuba into the United States as accompanied baggage.  This includes the value limitation on alcohol and tobacco products.  Persons subject to U.S. jurisdiction will be further authorized to import Cuban-origin merchandise acquired in third countries into the United States as accompanied baggage, again without value limitations.  OFAC is also removing the prohibition on foreign travelers importing Cuban-origin alcohol and tobacco products into the United States as accompanied baggage.  In all cases, the Cuban-origin goods must be imported for personal use, and normal limits on duty and tax exemptions will apply.  

·       Remittances.  Persons subject to U.S. jurisdiction will be authorized to make remittances to third-country nationals for travel by third-country nationals to, from, or within Cuba, provided the travel would be authorized by general license for a person subject to U.S. jurisdiction.

Civil Aviation –

Supporting International Aviation and Passenger Safety

·       Safety-related services.  OFAC is adding a new authorization that will allow persons subject to U.S. jurisdiction to provide civil aviation safety-related services to Cuba and Cuban nationals aimed at promoting safety in civil aviation and the safe operation of commercial aircraft.

Trade and Commerce –

Bolstering Trade and Commercial Opportunities and the Growth of Cuba’s Private Sector

·       Export-related transactions.  OFAC is amending its general license authorizing certain transactions incident to exports and reexports authorized by the BIS to eliminate references to “100% U.S.-origin items.”  This is intended to minimize and clarify the circumstances in which an export or reexport authorized by BIS requires additional licensing by OFAC.

·       Consumer goods for personal use.  BIS will generally authorize exports of certain consumer goods that are sold online or through other means directly to eligible individuals in Cuba for their personal use.  

·       Imports of previously exported items.  OFAC is adding an authorization that will allow the importation into the United States or a third country of items that were previously exported or reexported to Cuba pursuant to a BIS or OFAC authorization.  This authorization will also permit persons subject to U.S. jurisdiction to service and repair such items.  Exporting or reexporting replacement items or items that have been repaired or serviced must be separately authorized by OFAC and/or BIS as appropriate.

·       Contingent contracts.  OFAC is adding an expanded general license that will authorize persons subject to U.S. jurisdiction to enter into certain contingent contracts for transactions currently prohibited by the embargo, provided that contract performance is made expressly contingent on prior authorization by OFAC and any other relevant Federal agency, or on authorization no longer being required.  Transactions ordinarily incident to negotiating and entering into such contracts will also be authorized.

·       Financing.  OFAC is making a technical correction to clarify that agricultural items, such as pesticides and tractors, authorized by BIS for export or reexport to Cuba are not subject to restrictions on payment terms.  As required by the Trade Sanctions Reform and Export Enhancement Act, authorized exports and reexports to Cuba of agricultural commodities, such as poultry and corn, remain subject to the limited payment and financing terms of cash in advance or third country financing.

·       Certain vessel transactions.  OFAC is issuing a general license that will waive the restriction prohibiting foreign vessels from entering a U.S. port for purposes of loading or unloading freight for 180 days after calling on a Cuban port for trade purposes if the items the vessel carried to Cuba would, if subject to the EAR, be designated as EAR99 or controlled on the Commerce Control List for anti-terrorism reasons only.

·       Transit of cargo.  BIS will generally authorize air cargo to transit Cuba, complementing an existing general authorization for cargo transiting Cuba aboard vessels.

Starwood Has A Problem With Mastercard, Cuba's Central Bank, Stonegate Bank & Banco Popular De Puerto Rico

UPDATED....

On 13 October 2016, New York-based Mastercard Worldwide informed Stamford, Connecticut-based Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, which manages the Four Points Sheraton Havana, that the company was incorrect in stating on its Internet site that credit cards issued in the United States were not permitted to be used at the property.

Mastercard Worldwide also informed the Central Bank of the Republic of Cuba, which responded that it was not aware of the situation, but would contact the management of the Four Points Sheraton Havana.

In addition, Pompano Beach, Florida-based Stonegate Bank and San Juan, Puerto Rico-based Banco Popular of Puerto Rico, each of which has authorization from the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) of the United States Department of the Treasury and from the Central Bank of the Republic of Cuba to have their Mastercard-branded credit cards and debit cards valid for use in the Republic of Cuba, are contacting Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide to learn why the information on the Internet site of the company is incorrect.

Mastercard has removed its restriction for the Republic of Cuba on the use of its branded products in the Republic of Cuba.

As of 5:23 am on 14 October 2016, the Internet site retains the incorrect information.

From 10 October 2016

From Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide in June 2016... "We expect to be able to offer additional options in the near future."

In 2016, the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) of the United States Department of the Treasury granted a license(s) to Stamford, Connecticut-based Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide (2015 revenues exceeded US$5.7 billion) to manage properties owned by Republic of Cuba government-operated entities located in the city of Havana, Republic of Cuba.  The properties are Gran Caribe-owned Hotel Inglaterra; Habaguanex-owned Hotel Santa Isabel and Hotel Quinta Avenida (re-branded as Four Points by Sheraton Havana).

In September 2016, Bethesda, Maryland-based Marriott International (2015 revenues exceeded US$14 billion) acquired Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide and confirms its discussions with Republic of Cuba government-operated companies to identify property-management opportunities within the Republic of Cuba.

Four Points by Sheraton Havana
Avenida 5ta A 76 - 80,
Miramar District
Havana, Cuba

SPG Category 6

10 October 2016
Payment and Cancellations

"Reservations for this hotel are prepaid and there are NO REFUNDS for changes or cancellation for any guests, including SPG members. Additional charges at the Hotel are NOT payable with US credit cards and must be paid in CASH or with non US issued credit cards."

30 June 2016
Payment and Cancellations

“Reservations for this hotel are prepaid and there are NO REFUNDS for changes or cancellation. Additional charges at the Hotel are NOT payable with US credit cards and must be paid in CASH or with non US issued credit cards.” LINK TO SCREEN SHOT IN PDF FORMAT

30 June 2016
Blog Post

Why Did Starwood Initiate A Reservations Policy More Restrictive Than French & Spanish Competitors In Cuba?

For the Four Points By Sheraton Havana property, which commenced operations on 27 June 2016, the following statement is on its reservations portal:

http://www.starwoodhotels.com/fourpoints/property/overview/index.html?language=en_US&propertyID=4531

“Reservations for this hotel are prepaid and there are NO REFUNDS for changes or cancellation. Additional charges at the Hotel are NOT payable with US credit cards and must be paid in CASH or with non US issued credit cards.”

According to Stamford, Connecticut-based Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide (2015 revenues exceeded US$5.7 billion), "The current reservation policies are the result of Starwood’s assessment of market conditions.  We are conscious of the issues resulting from cash requirements and the limitations on payment methods. Thus, we are working to accept as many payment methods as possible based on what has been made available under the current regulatory framework.  We expect to be able to offer additional options in the near future."

When making a reservation at a property located within the Republic of Cuba using the online portal of the management company, for example Spain-based Melia Hotels International (2015 revenues exceeded US$2 billion) and France-based AccorHotels (2015 revenues exceeded US$5 billion), a reservation may be changed or cancelled and may be prepaid using a non-United States-based financial institution-issued credit/debit card, but may not (yet) be prepaid using a credit card/debit card issued by a United States-based financial institution.

Regulations Do Not Require

There are no regulations issued by the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) of the United States Department of the Treasury that prevent prepayment or require prepayment, that prevent refunds for changes or cancellation.  The OFAC has authorized credit cards and debit cards issued by United States-based financial institutions (including American Express, VISA, MasterCard, Discover, Diners Club, etc.) for use in the Republic of Cuba.

Are the Four Points by Sheraton Havana payment policies a reflection of requirements by Republic of Cuba government-operated Gaviota (controlled by the Revolutionary Armed Forces of the Republic of Cuba), the Central Bank of the Republic of Cuba, the Ministry of Tourism of the Republic of Cuba?

Pompano Beach, Florida-based Stonegate Bank is authorized by the OFAC and Central Bank of the Republic of Cuba to have its MasterCard credit/debit card valid for use in the Republic of Cuba.  San Juan, Puerto Rico-based Banco Popular of Puerto Rico has announced plans [now operational] to have its MasterCard credit/debit card valid for use in the Republic of Cuba.

In 2016, the OFAC granted a license(s) to Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide to manage properties owned by Republic of Cuba government-operated entities located in the city of Havana, Republic of Cuba.  The properties are Gran Caribe-owned Hotel Inglaterra; Habaguanex-owned Hotel Santa Isabel and Hotel Quinta Avenida (re-branded as Four Points by Sheraton Havana).

Bethesda, Maryland-based Marriott International (2015 revenues exceeded US$14 billion) is acquiring Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide and confirms its discussions with Republic of Cuba government-operated companies to identify property-management opportunities within the Republic of Cuba.

Manitou Of France Exports Heavy Equipment To Cuba

Manitou (2015 revenues exceeded US$1.4 billion)
430 route de l'Aubinière
44150
Ancenis, France

Dealer In The Republic Of Cuba

CTB GROUP
Calle 36 nº 109 e/ 1ª y 3ª Miramar
11300
La Havana, Cuba

To Stem Decline In Hotel Restaurant Revenues... Might Hotels In Havana Sub-contract With Paladares?

There may be an interesting development on the horizon…. Hotels in the Republic of Cuba, specifically those located in the city of Havana which are managed by non-Republic of Cuba government-operated companies, have noticed a consistent decrease in guests at their restaurants- with visitors generally only eating those meals (usually breakfast) that are included in their rate…  They will then seek to dine in private restaurants (paladares) where the food, service and experience are generally far superior. 

A solution?  Some of the non-Republic of Cuba-based hotel management companies are reviewing the possibility of bringing privately-owned restaurants into the hotels, in a similar way that hotels do within an increasing number of cities. This could be a component of a pilot project.

Of course, the government of the Republic of Cuba may not be too interested in promoting a non-government-controlled solution to a decreasing revenue problem.

Honeywell Fire Notifier Protecting Guests At Hotel Mercure Sevilla In Havana

This Notifier (priced at approximately US$45.00) manufactured in Northford, Connecticut by Morris Plains, New Jersey-based Honeywell International, Inc. (2015 revenues exceeded US$38 billion) is installed on the 7th floor of the Hotel Mercure Sevilla (owned by the government of the Republic of Cuba and managed by France-based AccorHotels) in Havana.

A representative of Honeywell reported that the company had no knowledge of the product being exported to the Republic of Cuba; and that likely a third-party sold the Notifier(s) to the Republic of Cuba.

Honeywell International "trusts commercial barriers will soon be lifted so that we can actively pursue the Cuban market."

This Notifier by Honeywell is installed on the 7th floor of the Mercure Sevilla Hotel in Havana

UPDATE: USTR Ambassador & Deputy Visit Cuba... MINREX Provides More Information Than US Government... Why?

Why is the government of the Republic of Cuba more transparent about it discussions with officials of the government of the United States?  They reported who the meetings were with, what was discussed, and issued an image (see below).... 

On 4 October 2016, the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) announced that USTR Ambassador Michael Froman will visit Havana, Republic of Cuba, from 5 October 2016 to 8 October 2016 for “bilateral meetings.”  The Honorable Matthew Vogel, Acting Deputy U.S. Trade Representative will also participate. 

Not identified as participating were support staff and John Melle, Assistant U.S. Trade Representative for the Western Hemisphere; Matthew McAlvanah, Assistant U.S. Trade Representative for Public and Media Affairs.

The delegation traveled using regularly-scheduled commercial airlines.

The visit was not announced in USTR's regularly-scheduled calendar issued on Friday, 30 September 2016.

Ambassador Froman was the seventh (7th) member of President Barack Obama's Cabinet to visit the Republic of Cuba since 17 December 2014.

From the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Cuba

"CUBA, October 7, 2016.- On 6 and 7 October, made an official visit to Cuba Ambassador Michael Froman, Office of the United States Trade Representative, during which he was received by ministers Bruno Rodriguez Parrilla, Foreign Affairs; and Rodrigo Malmierca, Foreign Trade and Foreign Investment.

He also met with Deputy Ministers of the Ministries of Communications, Agriculture and Science, Technology and Environment.

At the meetings they were discussed issues of interest to both related to the field of trade parties. Ambassador Froman and his delegation visited the Special Area Development Mariel, an agricultural cooperative and the Historic Center of Old Havana. (Cubaminrex)"

NOTE: Mrs. Josefina de la Caridad Vidal Ferreiro, the Director General (since 2013) of the Department of the United States at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Cuba, reported that from October 2016 through December 2016 seven high-level visits by both officials of the government of the Republic of Cuba and delegations from the United States were scheduled to be held in Washington, DC, and in Havana.  The United States Department of State has not mentioned the number of visits.

NOTE: There remains a continuing issue with the Obama Administration relating to the transparency for visits to the Republic of Cuba by senior-level officials. 

NOTE: The United States business community would be better served by having advance notification of meetings that will impact the United States business community.

106 Days Since Opening Of Four Points By Sheraton Havana... Still Has Most Restrictive Reservation Rule; No US Credit Cards- Even Stonegate. Why?

According to company in June 2016... "We expect to be able to offer additional options in the near future."

In 2016, the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) of the United States Department of the Treasury granted a license(s) to Stamford, Connecticut-based Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide (2015 revenues exceeded US$5.7 billion) to manage properties owned by Republic of Cuba government-operated entities located in the city of Havana, Republic of Cuba.  The properties are Gran Caribe-owned Hotel Inglaterra; Habaguanex-owned Hotel Santa Isabel and Hotel Quinta Avenida (re-branded as Four Points by Sheraton Havana).

In September 2016, Bethesda, Maryland-based Marriott International (2015 revenues exceeded US$14 billion) acquired Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide and confirms its discussions with Republic of Cuba government-operated companies to identify property-management opportunities within the Republic of Cuba.

Four Points by Sheraton Havana
Avenida 5ta A 76 - 80,
Miramar District
Havana, Cuba

SPG Category 6

10 October 2016
Payment and Cancellations

"Reservations for this hotel are prepaid and there are NO REFUNDS for changes or cancellation for any guests, including SPG members. Additional charges at the Hotel are NOT payable with US credit cards and must be paid in CASH or with non US issued credit cards."

30 June 2016
Payment and Cancellations

“Reservations for this hotel are prepaid and there are NO REFUNDS for changes or cancellation. Additional charges at the Hotel are NOT payable with US credit cards and must be paid in CASH or with non US issued credit cards.” LINK TO SCREEN SHOT IN PDF FORMAT

30 June 2016
Blog Post

Why Did Starwood Initiate A Reservations Policy More Restrictive Than French & Spanish Competitors In Cuba?

For the Four Points By Sheraton Havana property, which commenced operations on 27 June 2016, the following statement is on its reservations portal:

http://www.starwoodhotels.com/fourpoints/property/overview/index.html?language=en_US&propertyID=4531

“Reservations for this hotel are prepaid and there are NO REFUNDS for changes or cancellation. Additional charges at the Hotel are NOT payable with US credit cards and must be paid in CASH or with non US issued credit cards.”

According to Stamford, Connecticut-based Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide (2015 revenues exceeded US$5.7 billion), "The current reservation policies are the result of Starwood’s assessment of market conditions.  We are conscious of the issues resulting from cash requirements and the limitations on payment methods. Thus, we are working to accept as many payment methods as possible based on what has been made available under the current regulatory framework.  We expect to be able to offer additional options in the near future."

When making a reservation at a property located within the Republic of Cuba using the online portal of the management company, for example Spain-based Melia Hotels International (2015 revenues exceeded US$2 billion) and France-based AccorHotels (2015 revenues exceeded US$5 billion), a reservation may be changed or cancelled and may be prepaid using a non-United States-based financial institution-issued credit/debit card, but may not (yet) be prepaid using a credit card/debit card issued by a United States-based financial institution.

Regulations Do Not Require

There are no regulations issued by the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) of the United States Department of the Treasury that prevent prepayment or require prepayment, that prevent refunds for changes or cancellation.  The OFAC has authorized credit cards and debit cards issued by United States-based financial institutions (including American Express, VISA, MasterCard, Discover, Diners Club, etc.) for use in the Republic of Cuba.

Are the Four Points by Sheraton Havana payment policies a reflection of requirements by Republic of Cuba government-operated Gaviota (controlled by the Revolutionary Armed Forces of the Republic of Cuba), the Central Bank of the Republic of Cuba, the Ministry of Tourism of the Republic of Cuba?

Pompano Beach, Florida-based Stonegate Bank is authorized by the OFAC and Central Bank of the Republic of Cuba to have its MasterCard credit/debit card valid for use in the Republic of Cuba.  San Juan, Puerto Rico-based Banco Popular of Puerto Rico has announced plans [now operational] to have its MasterCard credit/debit card valid for use in the Republic of Cuba.

In 2016, the OFAC granted a license(s) to Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide to manage properties owned by Republic of Cuba government-operated entities located in the city of Havana, Republic of Cuba.  The properties are Gran Caribe-owned Hotel Inglaterra; Habaguanex-owned Hotel Santa Isabel and Hotel Quinta Avenida (re-branded as Four Points by Sheraton Havana).

Bethesda, Maryland-based Marriott International (2015 revenues exceeded US$14 billion) is acquiring Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide and confirms its discussions with Republic of Cuba government-operated companies to identify property-management opportunities within the Republic of Cuba.

An Update From Airbnb About Its Operations In Cuba... 10,000 Listings

As of 3 October 2016, Airbnb had approximately 10,000 listings throughout the Republic of Cuba.

1) What is the total value of the rental revenue paid to the owners of the residences since Airbnb commenced operations in the Republic of Cuba?

Our typical fee structure from around the world applies in Cuba, details here: https://www.airbnb.com/help/article/384/what-are-the-service-fees. From there, Airbnb hosts in Cuba will be expected to follow the same rules that apply to all owners of casas particulares in Cuba. Currently, those who use the system of private houses in Cuba must pay 10% of what is earned per month to the government.

2) What is the average per night rate for the properties in the Republic of Cuba?  In Havana?

We don’t disclose average per night rate as that can vary greatly depending on the type of listing (entire house, private room, shared room, etc) and won’t give an accurate picture. However, we can confirm that the average booking in Cuba is about US $250, that’s game-changing income for ordinary Cubans.

3) How are the funds delivered from Airbnb to the owners of the properties in the Republic of Cuba?

Through intermediaries we are able to deposit funds into many of our Cuban hosts’ bank accounts. For hosts who aren’t able to accept funds this way we have partnered with a 3rd party to remit payments in the manner that our Cuban hosts select including door-to-door delivery of payments. As banking infrastructure in Cuba evolves we will reevaluate our payment procedures to suit the needs of our Cuban host community.

Guest service fee

We add a percentage-based service fee to guest payments every time a reservation is booked. This helps cover the cost of running our site and services.

The exact percentage depends on the subtotal of the reservation. The higher the subtotal, the lower the percentage so you can save money when booking large reservations. You'll see the exact amount in the price breakdown on the checkout page before you confirm and pay, and on your billing receipt.

If you cancel a reservation you booked as a guest, the service fee is non-refundable. If your reservation is canceled by the host and you choose to be refunded, the service fee is refunded in full.

To help cover the costs of running Airbnb, we charge guests a service fee every time a reservation is confirmed. The amount of this service fee varies and is based on a percentage of the reservation subtotal (before fees and taxes).

The exact amount of the service fee is displayed before guests confirm a booking. Guest service fees are typically 6-12% but can be higher or lower depending on the specifics of the reservation. The higher the subtotal, the lower the percentage so you can save money when booking large reservations.

We also charge hosts a host service fee to cover the cost of processing payments.

Host service fee

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UPDATE: Dr. Jill Biden To Visit Cuba... Don't Be Surprised If Her Husband Visits Too

From The White House

DR. BIDEN TO TRAVEL TO THE REPUBLIC OF CUBA AND THE DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

From The White House:
 
"Dr. Jill Biden is traveling to Havana and Camaguey, Cuba, from Thursday, October 6 through Sunday, October 9, 2016. Dr. Biden is joined by Catherine M. Russell, United States Ambassador-at-Large for Global Women’s Issues, and Evan Ryan, United States Assistant Secretary of State for Educational and Cultural Affairs. Together, they will meet with government officials and engage with a diverse range of Cubans on topics related to culture, education, and health.

On Thursday evening, upon arrival in Havana, Cuba, Dr. Biden will attend a welcome reception at the U.S. Chief of Mission’s residence in Havana, hosted by Ambassador Jeff DeLaurentis, Chargé d’Affaires at the U.S. Embassy. This event is closed press.

On Friday morning, Dr. Biden will visit the Universidad de Ciencias Pedagógicas "Enrique José Varona" and participate in a discussion with students, school administrators, and professors focused on teaching. This event is pooled press.

Dr. Biden will then visit Old Havana to view cultural performances and engage with students at a local trade school. In addition, Dr. Biden will attend a performance by the female chamber orchestra Camerata Romeu at the Basílica Menor de San Francisco de Asis. The visit will be pooled press.
 
In the afternoon, Dr. Biden will have lunch with Cuban women leaders. This event will be closed press.

After lunch, Dr. Biden will attend the first friendly soccer match between the U.S. Men’s National Team and the Cuban Men’s National Team since 1947 at the Estadio Pedro Marrero. This event will be open press.

On Saturday morning, Dr. Biden will participate in a discussion with Cuban entrepreneurs. This event is closed press.  She will then attend a cultural performance by Habana Compás Dance company.  This event will be pooled press.

Afterwards, Dr. Biden will depart Havana, Cuba en route to Camaguey, Cuba. Upon arrival, Dr. Biden will visit the Camaguey Ballet and view a rehearsal of the dancers from the company. This event is open press.

In the evening, Dr. Biden will visit the art gallery and workshop of Camaguey artist Martha Jiménez Pérez. This event is official photographers only.

On Sunday, Dr. Biden will visit historic central Camaguey, recognized as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, during which she will visit Camaguey’s Casa de la Diversidad Cultural and view a cultural performance. This event is pooled press.

In the afternoon, Dr. Biden will visit the Casa de Cultura Amalia Simoni, a museum and women’s center, allowing her to meet with women from Camaguey. This event is pooled press.

Afterwards, Dr. Biden will depart Cuba en route to Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic."

NOTE: Not surprising would be a visit to the Republic of Cuba by Vice President Joseph Biden before 20 January 2016.  The purpose of a visit would be to discuss efforts by Republic of Cuba government-operated companies to develop treatments for cancer.  Another purpose of a visit would be to attempt to bring operational more of the Obama Administration initiatives that the government of the Republic of Cuba has yet to authorize.

NOTE: Dr. Biden stayed and employees of the United States government stayed at the Parque Central Hotel, managed by Spain-based Iberostar Hotels & Resorts rather than at the residence of the United States Charges d'Affaires or at the Four Points by Sheraton Habana, managed by Stamford, Connecticut-based Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, a subsidiary of Bethesda, Maryland-based Marriott International.

By The End Of This Week, 7 Members Of President Obama's Cabinet Will Have Visited Cuba

For the period 17 December 2014 through 5 October 2016, seven (7) members of President Barack Obama's Cabinet (including those with Cabinet-rank) have visited the Republic of Cuba.

From The White House:

Established in Article II, Section 2 of the Constitution, the Cabinet's role is to advise the President on any subject he may require relating to the duties of each member's respective office.

The tradition of the Cabinet dates back to the beginnings of the Presidency itself. Established in Article II, Section 2, of the Constitution, the Cabinet's role is to advise the President on any subject he may require relating to the duties of each member's respective office.

The Cabinet includes the Vice President and the heads of 15 executive departments — the Secretaries of Agriculture, Commerce, Defense, Education, Energy, Health and Human Services, Homeland Security, Housing and Urban Development, Interior, Labor, State, Transportation, Treasury, and Veterans Affairs, as well as the Attorney General.

In order of succession to the Presidency:

Vice President of the United States
Joseph R. Biden

Department of State (2015/2016)
Secretary John Kerry
state.gov

Department of the Treasury
Secretary Jack Lew
treasury.gov

Department of Defense
Secretary Ashton Carter
defense.gov

Department of Justice
Attorney General Loretta E. Lynch
usdoj.gov

Department of the Interior
Secretary Sally Jewell
doi.gov
 
Department of Agriculture (2015/2016)
Secretary Thomas J. Vilsack
usda.gov
 
Department of Commerce (2015/2016)
Secretary Penny Pritzker
commerce.gov

Department of Labor
Secretary Thomas E. Perez
dol.gov

Department of Health and Human Services
Secretary Sylvia Mathews Burwell
hhs.gov
 
Department of Housing and Urban Development
Secretary Julián Castro
hud.gov
 
Department of Transportation (2016-2)
Secretary Anthony Foxx
dot.gov
 
Department of Energy
Secretary Ernest Moniz
energy.gov
 
Department of Education
Secretary John King
ed.gov
 
Department of Veterans Affairs
Secretary Robert McDonald
va.gov
 
Department of Homeland Security
Secretary Jeh Johnson
dhs.gov

The following positions have the status of Cabinet-rank:
 
White House Chief of Staff
Denis McDonough

Environmental Protection Agency (2016)
Administrator Gina McCarthy
epa.gov

Office of Management & Budget
Director Shaun L.S. Donovan
whitehouse.gov/omb

United States Trade Representative (2016)
Ambassador Michael Froman
ustr.gov

United States Mission to the United Nations
Ambassador Samantha Power
usun.state.gov

Council of Economic Advisers
Chairman Jason Furman
whitehouse.gov/administration/eop/cea
 
Small Business Administration (2016)
Administrator Maria Contreras-Sweet
sba.gov

Secretary Kerry To Visit Cuba This Month.... Trying To "Close The Deal"

The Honorable John Kerry, United States Secretary of State, will visit the Republic of Cuba in October 2016, probably 12 October 2016 to 14 October 2016.

Mrs. Josefina de la Caridad Vidal Ferreiro, the Director General (since 2013) of the Department of the United States at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Cuba, reported that from October 2016 through December 2016 seven high-level visits by both officials of the government of the Republic of Cuba and delegations from the United States were scheduled to be held in Washington, DC, and in Havana.  The United States Department of State has not mentioned the number of visits.

A goal will be to discuss how to implement as many of the Obama Administration initiatives as possible by 20 January 2017... explain the new regulations that are expected to be announced, and attempt to conclude agreements relating to, among other topics, certified claims.

Secretary Kerry may establish the foundation for a visit by Vice President Joseph Biden.

For 50 CUC's Per Day... You Too Can Be A Taxi Driver In Havana

Republic of Cuba nationals can rent a vehicle for approximately 50 CUC's per day (approximately US$56.00) from Republic of Cuba government-operated Agencia de TAXI and earn from ferrying passengers throughout the city of Havana. 

The vehicles are from China and South Korea, clean, air conditioned, and not too pricey (for Republic of Cuba standards today). 

There are no meters, but the fares are generally consistent.  Always remember to agree on the fare before getting into the vehicle.

Louisiana Governor Will Be 17th To Visit Cuba Since 1999; More Than 920,000 MT Of Food/Ag Exports Since 2010

BATON ROUGE, La. (Press Release) — Gov. John Bel Edwards [D] will lead a Louisiana trade mission to Cuba next week, setting the stage for greater economic and cultural exchanges between the Caribbean nation and its leading trade partner among U.S. states. Louisiana Agriculture and Forestry Commissioner Mike Strain, Louisiana Economic Development Secretary Don Pierson and Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development Secretary Shawn Wilson will join Governor Edwards and approximately 50 other state, regional, local, educational and private business leaders on the mission.

The Oct. 3-7 trip will place high priorities on expanding trade and commerce between Cuba and Louisiana, with executives from five Louisiana port districts participating in the trip and meeting with government ministers who lead trade, agriculture and foreign affairs for Cuba. The historic trip represents the first visit by a Louisiana governor since former Gov. Kathleen Blanco led a three-day mission in 2005, one that created greater trading of agricultural products between the two economies.

For the past decade, Louisiana has ranked as the No. 1 exporting state to Cuba, with more than $1.4 billion in cumulative exports. Virginia is second at $424 million. Significantly, the trip follows President Barack Obama’s decision in December 2014 to normalize relations with Cuba, which led to the March 2016 visit of President Obama and his family to Cuba, the first by a U.S. president in nearly 90 years. In July, Commissioner Strain led a Louisiana delegation on an exploratory trip to Cuba to lay the foundation for the governor’s trip next week.

“While we experienced significant levels of trade with Cuba in recent years, the sanctions in place over the past half-century have largely limited that trade to essential items, such as food and medicine,” Gov. Edwards said. “There remains much work to be done before our nation’s embargo on broader trade with Cuba is lifted. However, there are new opportunities that can benefit Louisiana, and I am optimistic that we will be able to build on our existing trade partnership with Cuba following this bipartisan visit. We want Louisiana to be first in line to any new opportunities with Cuba, particularly the import, export and foreign direct investment possibilities that could range into the billions of dollars in the coming years. For those reasons, we are eager to embark on this trade mission and to place Louisiana in a unique position of leadership with respect to Cuba.”

Gov. Edwards plans to depart for Havana on Monday, with an opening reception and dinner planned with Cuban officials that night. Tuesday’s agenda includes scheduled meetings with the Cuban ministers of Foreign Affairs and Trade, and Foreign Investment, along with the National Port Administration of Cuba.

Wednesday’s schedule will include meetings at the Port of Mariel and the Port of Havana, where Cuban and Louisiana port officials will exchange information about their capabilities and market opportunities. Louisiana executives from the Port of New Orleans, Port of South Louisiana, Port of Greater Baton Rouge, Port of Lake Charles and the Louisiana Offshore Terminal Authority will participate in the mission with Cuban port and trade leaders. In addition, the LED Office of International Commerce and the DOTD Office of Multimodal Commerce will support efforts to generate more trade and foreign direct investment exchanges between Cuba and Louisiana.

“Louisiana’s commercial, transportation and cultural ties with Cuba run deep and offer great common ground for our new engagement with Cuba,” LED Secretary Pierson said. “This year, the Louisiana Legislature charged LED with developing a plan for the State of Louisiana that tackles two big goals: one, the development and improvement of trade relations with Cuba; and, two, a strategic analysis that identifies Louisiana’s unique economic opportunities relative to Cuba. This delegation led by Gov. Edwards will go a long way toward informing our analysis for the Legislature, which we will provide early next year. We’re also indebted to Commissioner Strain for leading the July trip to Cuba and for continuing his collaboration with us to maximize Louisiana’s opportunities in Cuba.”

On Thursday, the trade mission will focus on agriculture, with visits to private, state and cooperative farms; a planned meeting with the Cuban minister of agriculture; tours of local agricultural markets; a visit to Havana’s school of veterinary medicine; and meetings with other university leaders.

“Cuba imports 80 percent of its produce and Cuba is in great need of quality products Louisiana can provide,” said Commissioner Strain, who leads Louisiana’s Department of Agriculture and Forestry. “For example, Cubans are the largest consumers of rice per capita in the Western Hemisphere. High-quality rice is one of many agricultural products we grow. With the proximity of our ports, we are an obvious trading partner with Cuba. We hope to continue to build this relationship with Cuba and provide its people and visitors with Louisiana products. Currently, Cuba imports $2 billion in agricultural products each year. They need wheat, corn, rice, pork, poultry, soybeans, petroleum and mechanical implements. This exchange could be truly beneficial for both Louisiana and Cuba.”

Following a farewell dinner Thursday night, the Louisiana delegation will depart Havana for New Orleans on Friday morning. The State of Louisiana engaged U.S.-based Cuba Education Travel to coordinate travel arrangements and secure participant visas for the weeklong trip to Cuba.

In addition to the state government agencies, other groups represented on the Cuban trade mission include the Committee of 100 for Economic Development, LSU, the Baton Rouge Area Foundation, the Water Institute of the Gulf and a variety of leading Louisiana businesses.

US & Cuba Bilateral Commission Meeting Statements- Striking Differences (Again)

United States and Cuba Hold Fourth Bilateral Commission Meeting in Washington, D.C.

Media Note
Office of the Spokesperson
Washington, DC
September 30, 2016

The United States and Cuba held the fourth Bilateral Commission in Washington, D.C., on Friday, September 30. Acting Assistant Secretary of State for Western Hemisphere Affairs Mari Carmen Aponte led the U.S. delegation, supported by Chargé d’Affaires Jeffrey DeLaurentis, Deputy Assistant Secretary John Creamer, and Chief of Staff and Director of Policy Planning Jon Finer. The Cuban delegation was led by Josefina Vidal, the Foreign Ministry’s Director General for U.S. Affairs, supported by Cuban Ambassador to the United States Jose Ramon Cabanas.

The Bilateral Commission advances the normalization process between the United States and Cuba. The meeting took place in a cooperative and productive environment. The U.S. and Cuban delegations discussed the way forward on key issues such as agriculture, health, environmental protection, economic engagement, science and technology, civil aviation, regulatory affairs, claims, culture and education, law enforcement, nonproliferation, trafficking in persons, human rights, maritime borders, and migration. The delegations also discussed prospects for upcoming high-level visits and their shared desire to achieve as much progress as possible by the end of the year.

The United States looks forward to the next Bilateral Commission Meeting in Havana in December 2016.

From the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Cuba

Delegations presided over respectively by Josefina Vidal Ferreiro, Director General of the US Division at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs; and Mari Carmen Aponte, Assistant Secretary of State for Western Hemisphere Affairs, and Jonathan Finer, Chief of Staff and Director of Policy Planning for the Secretary of State, met on September 30 in Washington on the occasion of the fourth meeting of the Cuba-US Bilateral Commission.

During the meeting, a review was made on the implementation of the agreements reached at the third meeting of the Commission held in May in Havana and both parties identified the bilateral steps that they intend to take before the end of this year.

The meeting found that there had been progress in the areas of diplomatic relations and cooperation on issues of common interest, namely, the exchange of high level visits; the resumption of scheduled flights between both countries; the adoption of agreements in the areas of health, the combat of drug-trafficking and the deployment of air marshals on board of charter and scheduled flights; the holding of technical meetings on environmental issues, geodesics and hydrography, air safety and security, terrorism, drug trafficking, traffic in persons and migration fraud, legal cooperation, flow of persons and goods safety and cybersecurity; as well as the implementation of the program to teach English in Cuba.  During this period, dialogues on regulations and mutual compensations continued to be held and negotiations between Cuba, the United States and Mexico to delimit the Eastern Gap in the Gulf of Mexico were initiated.

The Cuban delegation emphasized that little results have been achieved in the economic area due to the enforcement of the blockade and reaffirmed that in order to move forward in the economic, commercial and financial relations, this policy needs to be eliminated, as was expressed by the Cuban representatives to the first Economic Dialogue –the mechanism created by the Bilateral Commission to address these issues-, on September 12 last. Likewise, it insisted that in order to advance towards the improvement of relations, it will also be necessary that the territory illegally occupied by the Guantanamo Naval Base be returned to Cuba and other interfering policies which are harmful to our sovereignty and are still in force be eliminated, such as the implementation of programs aimed at promoting internal changes in Cuba and the use of ICTs with political purposes. The current US preferential migration policy, expressed through the application of the Cuban Adjustment Act, the wet foot/dry foot program and the Cuban Medical Professional Parole Program, which encourage illegal and unsafe migration of our citizens, deprive Cuba from vital human resources and create increasing difficulties to other countries need to be modified.

For the next three months both delegations agreed to continue promoting high level visits, move on to the negotiation of new agreements in areas such as seismology, meteorology, land protected areas, marine pollution resulting from spills of hydrocarbons and other substances, law enforcement and search and rescue; celebrate technical meetings on cybercrimes and money laundering and between Cuban Border Guard and the US Coast Guard Service; as well as hold dialogues on disarmament and non-proliferation and human rights.

The Cuban delegation reiterated the Cuban Government willingness to continue moving on in the bilateral relations in the next few months and suggested to hold the fifth meeting of the Bilateral Commission in December, 2016, in Havana. (Cubaminrex)

US & Cuba Have A Meeting... Only Cuba Reports It

From the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Cuba

HAVANA, September 29, 2016. On Wednesday September 28, took place in the US capital the first meeting on the safety of flows of people and goods between the two countries and mutual concerns about cybersecurity.

This meeting is part of the dialogue on implementation and enforcement, initiated between Cuba and the United States in November 2015.

The meeting took place in a climate of respect and professionalism.

The Cuban delegation was composed of representatives of the Ministries of Interior, Foreign Affairs, Transport and the General Customs of the Republic. The US side was represented by officials from the Departments of Homeland Security, Justice and State.

Both delegations agreed on the importance of advancing cooperation in this area and the need to sign bilateral instruments, and agreed to continue these technical meetings in the future.

(Cubaminrex)

United States and Cuba to Hold Fourth Bilateral Commission Meeting in Washington, D.C.

United States and Cuba to Hold Fourth Bilateral Commission Meeting in Washington, D.C.

Media Note
Office of the Spokesperson
Washington, DC

September 29, 2016

The United States and Cuba will hold the fourth Bilateral Commission in Washington, D.C., on Friday, September 30. Acting Assistant Secretary of State for Western Hemisphere Affairs Mari Carmen Aponte and Chief of Staff and Director of Policy Planning Jon Finer will co-chair the U.S. delegation. Chargé d’Affaires Jeffrey DeLaurentis and Deputy Assistant Secretary John Creamer will also attend for the United States. The Cuban delegation will be led by Josefina Vidal, the Foreign Ministry’s Director General for U.S. Affairs.

The Secretary places a top priority on deepening our dialogue with the Government of Cuba, the primary mechanism for which is the Bilateral Commission. The meeting will provide an opportunity to review progress on a number of shared priorities since the last Bilateral Commission meeting in May 2016, including public health, counternarcotics, and the resumption of scheduled commercial flights between the United States and Cuba. The United States and Cuba expect to plan continued engagements on economic issues, human rights, claims, environmental protection, agriculture, law enforcement, health, migration, educational and cultural exchanges, trafficking in persons, and regulatory issues for the remainder of 2016.

From The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Cuba

HAVANA, 28 September 2016. Delegations of Cuba and the United States will hold the fourth meeting of the Bilateral Commission on Friday, September 30, in Washington.

The Cuban delegation will be chaired by the director general US the Foreign Ministry, Josefina Vidal Ferreiro, and the US by the Assistant Secretary for the Western Hemisphere, Mari Carmen Aponte and Jonathan Finer, Director of Policy Planning, both the State Department.

the results achieved since the conclusion of the previous meeting will be reviewed, on May 16, 2016, in Havana and the new steps that both sides will for the rest of the year to advance the process of improving relations be agreed, including the realization of high-level visits in both directions, conducting technical meetings, adoption of new cooperation agreements in areas of common interest and holding dialogues on issues of bilateral and multilateral interest.

The Cuban delegation will reiterate the need for the blockade to be lifted, the Cuban sovereignty is returned the territory illegally occupied by the Guantanamo Naval Base, an end to the preferential migration policy towards Cuban citizens and other policies that affect deleting a Cuba, so you can have normal relations between Cuba and the United States.