After 54 years, the United States and Cuba have formally restored full diplomatic relations. Après 54 ans de froid, Etats-Unis et Cuba ont
ADVERTISEMENTAfter 54 years, the United States and Cuba have formally restored full diplomatic relations.
Après 54 ans de froid, Etats-Unis et Cuba ont officiellement rouvert leurs ambassades http://t.co/1W4tlUXUaf#Détentepic.twitter.com/qg0GuRZ2Sj
— Sébastien Tronche (@S_Tronche) 20 Juillet 2015
Etats-Unis et Cuba rouvrent officiellement leurs ambassades http://t.co/7LzCR8S61L par
ahgamboa</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AFP?src=hash">#AFP</a> <a href="http://t.co/hmoRUjzcZp">pic.twitter.com/hmoRUjzcZp</a></p>— Agence France-Presse (afpfr) 20 Juillet 2015
The hugely symbolic event has raised hopes and expectations in Havana: “For us, this is significant,” one man told reporters, “it’s important. I think it’s a decisive step towards normalising relations. As Cubans, we welcome this and are waiting to see what will happen from this point onwards.”
Cuba-US relations: a boost for trade?
Cubans are hoping the new era will give their country an economic boost.
Cuba's millennials are untethered from the ideals of the past and ready to meet the world. http://t.co/ormxroDTOZpic.twitter.com/PS6D2ROrfI
— Foreign Policy (@ForeignPolicy) 19 Juillet 2015
However, a US economic embargo remains in place and can only be lifted by a vote in Congress.
Lingering disputes
The historic thaw in relations is also overshadowed by lingering disputes.Dozens of dissidents were arrested on Sunday during a regular march by the group known as the “Ladies in White” calling on the Cuban government to release its political prisoners.
About 70 Ladies in White and Activists Arrested Sunday / 14ymedio http://t.co/vwh5Rjmb9gpic.twitter.com/gtzXELzM6k
— Translating Cuba (@TranslatingCuba) 20 Juillet 2015