Gorbachev, U.S. officials debate end to Castro regime [View All]

[Osolomia]

Sunday, October 5, 2003
By RALF E. 'TED' KIRCHER
Naples Daily News, Florida

MIAMI — A vestigial battle of the Cold War flared here Saturday with two competing summits on Cuban-American relations featuring a cast that included such players as former Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev and a sitting U.S. assistant secretary of state.

.... "The embargo is one tool of our policy, and it is a tool that we will not surrender," said Roger F. Noriega, U.S. assistant secretary of state for Western Hemisphere Affairs. "Rather than giving a $1 billion windfall that would be generated by U.S. tourist travel, we will save those resources for the day when they will go to the Cuban people."

... Noriega also announced the Bush administration's elimination of a travel provision that allows for nonacademic educational exchanges. Moreover, Noriega said, "We are working to step up enforcement actions against those who travel in violation of the law."

... Gorbachev championed the idea that it is the United States' responsibility as the sole remaining superpower to take the first step toward reconciliation.

"I would be the first to salute the liberation of America from the fear of Cuba," he said with a smile.

Speaking earlier in the day, retired Marine Gen. John Sheehan, former commander-in-chief of the U.S. Atlantic Command, called allegations that Cuba is developing weapons of mass destruction "the politicization of intelligence" as seemingly has been evidenced in Iraq.

... "Mr. President, it's time to tear down the wall that prevents Americans from going anywhere they damn well please."

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http://www.naplesnews.com/03/10/naples/e6480a.htm