GUE/NGL President Gabi Zimmer has commented on the re-establishment of diplomatic relations between the US and Cuba and on the liberation of the three remaining members of the 'Cuban Five' – imprisoned in the United States for 16 years on charges of espionage.

She said: “We strongly welcome the release of the last three members of the 'Cuban Five'. This represents a victory for solidarity campaigns expressed throughout the world, including in the European Parliament, in which GUE/NGL played an important role.

“We also welcome the agreement between the United States and Cuba to re-establish diplomatic relations. But to fully normalise relations, it is now high time that the United States government lifts its economic, commercial and financial embargo of Cuba – 25 years after the end of the Cold War.

“Raul Castro and Barack Obamas' efforts also send a clear signal to the EU – it is time to normalise relations with Cuba and immediately revoke the EU's 1996 common position.

“Cuban society is in the midst of a major transformation process; and the Cuban people more than ever need our political, social and economic solidarity.”

GUE/NGL Press Contacts:
Emily Macintosh +32 470 85 05 08
David Lundy +32 470 85 05 09
Gay Kavanagh +32 473 84 23 20
European United Left / Nordic Green Left
European Parliamentary Group