Jose Pertierra: Opening embassies a milestone in Cuba-US relations

Americas Now

You could call it a “monumental” moment in Washington, D.C. Cuba formally re-opened its embassy on July 20th. The Cuban flag was raised above the stately, nearly 100-year-old limestone mansion for the first time in 54 years.

President Barack Obama said the decision to resume diplomatic relations between the U.S. and Cuba came after reaching the conclusion that 50 years of isolation was not leading to progress. Both he and Cuban President Raul Castro agreed that engagement between their nations would be more productive.

Jose Pertierra is a Washington attorney who specializes in U.S.-Cuban relations. He has represented many Latin American clients, including Elian Gonzalez. Jose sits down with Elaine Reyes on the set of Americas Now to discuss what the embassy opening signifies.

Does this mean the embargo has ended? Can U.S. citizens’ now travel freely to Havana? What businesses will first benefit from the re-establishment of ties?

Jose Pertierra provides his perspective on what we are likely to see happen between the U.S. and Cuba in the months ahead.

LINK: http://www.josepertierra.com/

Jose Pertierra: Opening embassies a milestone in Cuba-US relations

Jose Pertierra is a Washington attorney who specializes in U.S.-Cuban relations. He has represented many Latin American clients, including Elian Gonzalez. Jose sits down with Elaine Reyes on the set of Americas Now to discuss what the embassy opening signifies.