Pelosi Statement on Removal of Cuba from the State Department’s List of State Sponsors of Terror

Contact: Drew Hammill, 202-226-7616

Washington, D.C. – Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi released this statement after Secretary of State John Kerry rescinded Cuba's Designation as a State Sponsor of Terrorism effective today, May 29:

"Today, by removing Cuba from the State Sponsor of Terrorism list, the State Department has removed the burden of an outdated, outmoded strategy. Normalization of relations between our countries is vital to promoting human rights and prosperity throughout the region.

"Because of President Obama's leadership, we can continue to build a better and more hopeful future in the western hemisphere that both meets our security needs and fulfills the democratic aspirations of the Cuban people. This is also a critical step forward in creating new opportunities for American businesses and entrepreneurs, and in strengthening family ties.

"As the United States gets closer to restoring full diplomatic relations with Cuba, I hope we can continue to build on the historic progress we have made and improve the lives of both the American and Cuban people."

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