Italy’s Savino del Bene receives license from BIS To Provision Non-US Passenger Vessels In Cuba

Scandicci, Italy-based Savino del Bene SpA (2016 revenues approximately US$1.4 billion) has received a license from the Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) of the United States Department of Commerce to export food products, agricultural commodities and healthcare products from the United States to the Republic of Cuba for use by cruise ships.

The company (coordinating through its office in Miami, Florida) is using the Crowley Liner Services twice-weekly container schedule from Port Everglades, Florida, to the Port of Mariel, Republic of Cuba, managed by TC Mariel SA (a subsidiary of Singapore-based PSA International Pte Ltd).

The significance of this announcement is Savino del Bene SpA is receiving orders from Geneva, Switzerland-based MCS Cruises to provision its vessels upon their arrival to the Port of Havana, Republic of Cuba. 

MSC Cruises operates itineraries including the Republic of Cuba that are not authorized for individuals subject to United States jurisdiction.

MCS Cruises will provide a list of items which will be sourced in the United States and then delivered through the services of a Republic of Cuba-based supply-chain correspondent to the vessel in a sealed container.

BIS authorized exports of product from the United States to the Republic of Cuba specifically for use by passengers (tourists) of a non-United States-based cruise company.  

If United States-based cruise companies with itineraries authorized by the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) of the United States Department of the Treasury seek to use the BIS-licensed provision services of Savino del Bene SpA, the BIS will need amend the existing license.

“The Savino Del Bene Group is a global operator with over 3200 employees, 151 own branches, 66 subsidiary offices, and with the support of over 150 selected correspondents.  Savino Del Bene, whose name is homonymous of its founder, started up in Florence, Italy, at the beginning of the 1900's. The company's early focus was to develop freight forwarding services primarily towards the USA. Today, Savino Del Bene has evolved into a global logistics provider with a worldwide network, specialized in supply chain management, offering services for ocean, air and surface transportation.”

Company Profile In PDF Format

Rex Tillerson, Nominee For Secretary Of State, Submits Written Answers To Cuba Questions; Channels Speaker Ryan From June 2016

Written Question: Will you work with the Treasury Department to ensure that no revenue from American businesses goes directly toward supporting the Cuban military and the regime?

Mr. Rex Tillerson: Yes, if I am confirmed.

NOTE: On 9 June 2016, The Honorable Paul Ryan (R-WI), Speaker of the United States House of Representatives, issued a statement entitled, "Achieving U.S. Security Through Leadership & Liberty"

The second paragraph of the document included this sentence: "A first step should be to ban financial transactions with the Cuban military."

http://www.cubatrade.org/blog/2016/6/11/speaker-of-the-house-paul-ryan-wants-to-rescind-starwood-hotel-management-agreement?rq=Paul%20Ryan

Committee on Foreign Relations
United States Senate
Washington, DC

Written answers by Mr. Rex Tillerson, nominee to be United States Secretary of State, as published by the Committee on Foreign Relations.

Question: Despite the Obama Administration’s controversial and misguided decision to normalize relations with Cuba and its hope that this could lead to improved governance and human rights, Cuban officials continue to arrest dissidents and violate the rights of citizens, and tourism revenues benefit only government officials and a small minority of the population. How do you plan to approach the United States’ relationship with Cuba? How will you support human rights defenders and democracy activists in Cuba? What bilateral and/or multilateral pressure will you exert to lessen authoritarian rule in Cuba?

Tillerson: If confirmed, I will engage with Cuba but continue to press for reform of its oppressive regime. I will support human rights defenders and democracy activists in Cuba, empower civil society, defend freedom of expression, and promote improved Internet access and I will ask our allies to do the same.

Will you continue to support programs that promote democratic voices and initiatives in Cuba like Radio and TV Marti?

Yes, if I am confirmed.

What steps will you take to pressure the Castro regime to return American political fugitives like New Jersey cop-killer Joanne Chesimard?

If confirmed, I will engage bilaterally and multilaterally to bring these fugitives to justice.

Will you work with the Treasury Department to ensure that no revenue from American businesses goes directly toward supporting the Cuban military and the regime?

Yes, if I am confirmed.

NOTE: On 9 June 2016, The Honorable Paul Ryan (R-WI), Speaker of the United States House of Representatives, issued a statement entitled, "Achieving U.S. Security Through Leadership & Liberty"  The second paragraph of the document included this sentence: "A first step should be to ban financial transactions with the Cuban military."  http://www.cubatrade.org/blog/2016/6/11/speaker-of-the-house-paul-ryan-wants-to-rescind-starwood-hotel-management-agreement?rq=Paul%20Ryan

What steps will you take to encourage the government of Cuba to release political prisoners, artists, journalists, and other Cubans being detained for politically-motivated reasons?

If confirmed, I will press Cuba to meet its pledge to become more democratic and consider placing conditions on trade or travel policies to motivate the release of political prisoners.

What steps will you take to promote judicial reform in Cuba?

I will work bilaterally and multilaterally to identify training and technical assistance opportunities to assist with judicial reform, if I am confirmed.

On October 12, 2016, PEOTUS Donald Trump stated, “The people of Cuba have struggled too long. Will reverse Obama’s Executive Orders and concessions towards Cuba until freedoms are restored.” Do you stand by PEOTUS Trump’s commitment to reverse the Obama Administration’s Cuba regulations until freedoms are restored on the island?

Yes. There will be a comprehensive review of current policies and executive orders regarding Cuba to determine how best to pressure Cuba to respect human rights and promote democratic changes.

On October 14, 2016, VPEOTUS Mike Pence reiterated this commitment by stating, “When Donald Trump and I take to the White House, we will reverse Barack Obama’s executive orders on Cuba.” Do you stand by VPEOTUS Pence’s commitment to reverse the Obama Administration’s Cuba regulations?

Yes, if I am confirmed.

Cuba Comic Con Expo To Havana In May 2017

Warwick, NY (January 9, 2017) – Martin Glynn, CEO of MAD Event Management announced today that they have partnered with Paradiso, the Cuban cultural agency, to produce Cuba Comic Expo, being held in Havana, Cuba on May 19-21, 2017.

This cultural exchange program will welcome creators from the aligned pop culture worlds of comic book, animation, storytelling and other creative arts to Havana for a unique and historic event. 

MAD will sponsor comic, animation, prose and other creators to join them in Cuba and will facilitate meetings with their Cuban peers, as well as to produce content for a two-day public event to be held at Pavilion in Cuba’s capital city of Havana.

The program will feature tours of relevant cultural institutions in Havana, followed by networking sessions with peers from Cuba.

There will be a public exposition on May 20 & 21 where the creators will be introduced to fans through a series of curated Question & Answer sessions and panel discussions. Featured artwork and scripts from the creators will be presented in a museum-like setting.

“We’ve been investigating the concept of producing an event in Cuba for nearly a year, and were thrilled to receive formal approval to move forward. The opportunities for both sides are incredible with knowledge and skill sharing between the two countries’ brightest and most creative professionals,” said Marty Glynn, CEO of MAD Event Management. “We will be announcing more specific details over the next month, and will offer people in related industries to join us as part of a Fam Tour (familiarization tour). There will also be a limited number of sponsor and exhibitor opportunities available.”

For more information about the event, you may reach Marty Glynn at marty@madeventmanagement.com.

About MAD Event Management:

MAD Event Management is an all-purpose event planning facilitator whose principal owner has over 15 years of experience producing annual large-scale consumer conventions around the country, including Los Angeles, New York, Philadelphia, Chicago and Dallas. MAD's capabilities include: Site Selection, Exhibit Staffing, Marketing Plans, Vendor Selection, Floor Plan Development, On-Site Execution, Sponsor Exhibitor Sales, Travel Management, Contract Development, Setup & Disassembly and Contract Coordination. Visit www.madeventmanagement.com for additional information.

The comic book/character/entertainment industry in the United States had gross revenues of more than US$3 billion in 2016.

Media Release In PDF Format

Cuba Port Representatives Visiting Six Ports In The United States

A delegation of representatives from port facilities in the Republic of Cuba is visiting the United States from 21 January 2017 to 3 February 2017.

The Trump Administration did not seek to cancel or delay the visit.

The delegation includes: Eradis Gonzalez de la Peña, CEO of Almacenes Universales S.A.; Ernesto Viñas Betancourt, advisor of the Vice Minister of Transportation of Cuba; Ana Teresa Igarza Martinez, general director of Mariel Special Development Zone (ZEDM); Tania Vazquez Garcia, official within the Trade Policy Division with North America, Ministry of Foreign Trade and Investment; Rene Rolando Fernandez de Lara Cabazas, director of Inland Waterway and Sea Transport, Cuban Ministry of Transport; Joe Lago, First Secretary, Embassy of Cuba; and Jose Leonardo Sosa Barrios, Deputy Director, Mariel Container Terminal, Port Mariel.

The schedule includes visits to six (6) port facilities (including Houston, Texas, and a visit to Austin, Texas; Port of New Orleans, Louisiana; Port of Norfolk, Virginia) and to Washington DC; and signing of memorandums of understanding (MOU) between the National Port Administration of Cuba and ports in Florida (Palm Beach, Port Everglades; Tampa) and in Alabama.

The delegation from the Republic of Cuba will attend a conference on 2/3 February 2017 in Tampa, Florida, hosted by the Alexandria, Virginia-based American Association of Port Authorities.

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22 Bilateral Documents Signed From 17 December 2014 To 20 January 2017

During the 766-day period 17 December 2014 through 20 January 2017, the United States and government of the Republic of Cuba executed twenty-two (22) bilateral documents.  There are four (4) binding documents and one (1) treaty requiring ratification.

The categories of the documents include agreement, arrangement, memorandum of understanding, pilot plan, joint statement, and treaty.

Federal Air Marshals Arrangement (7/7/16)
Pilot Plan for Direct Transportation of Mail (3/11/16)
Civil Aviation Arrangement (2/16/16)
Health MOU (6/13/16)
Cancer Research MOU (10/20/16)
Agriculture MOU (5/5/16)
Environmental Protection Joint Statement (11/24/15)
Marine Protected Areas MOU (11/18/15)
Hydrography MOU (3/18/16)
Counternarcotics (CN) (7/21/16)
DHS-MININT (5/5/16)
INTERPOL (10/15)
Wildlife Conservation and Terrestrial Protected Areas (12/21/16)
Meteorology (12/21/16)
Seismology (12/20/16)
Oil Spill Preparedness and Response Agreement (1/1/2017)
Law Enforcement MOU (1/16/17)
Migration Joint Statement (12/1/17)
Search and Rescue (1/18/17)
Maritime Boundaries (1/18/17)
Sister Parks (1/1817)
USDA/APHIS (1/18/17)

While the number, the varied subject matter, and the depth of documents executed by the Obama Administration and government of the Republic of Cuba during the last two years is significant, important to acknowledge that not all are binding; and the one treaty needs to be ratified by the United States Senate.

Thus, the commercial, economic and political bilateral relationship between the United States and Republic of Cuba remains tentative, fragile, and immensely subject to the impact of winds from the north and winds from the south.

A goal for the Trump Administration is to use its time in Washington to create with the government of the Republic of Cuba a bilateral relationship that doesn't depend upon unlimited quantities of glue to keep it together.

 

US & Cuba Sign USDA/APHIS Agreement

The United States Department of State did not issue a statement relating to the following:

Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Cuba
Havana, Republic of Cuba

"January 20, 2017.- On Thursday, January 19, 2017, a Memorandum of Understanding for cooperation was signed between the Divisions of Animal and Plant Health of the Ministry of Agriculture of Cuba and the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service of the US Department of Agriculture.

This new bilateral instrument provides a specific framework for the cooperation in the field of animal and plant health, which complements the provisions of the MOU on the cooperation in the field of agriculture and other related areas signed on March 21, 2016 by the Minister of Agriculture of Cuba and the US Secretary of Agriculture.

This new Memorandum is mainly intended to contribute to prevent the introduction and spread of quarantine pests, animal and plant disease agents and vectors in the United States and Cuba through the exchange of scientific information, best practices for the prevention and control of plagues and emerging diseases, collaborative scientific projects, including the use of technology, research and surveillance, and the holding of events on specific aspects of animal and plant health.

The Memorandum was signed on behalf of Cuba by H.E. José Ramón Cabañas, Ambassador of Cuba to the United States while Mr. Elvis S. Córdoba, Under Secretary a.i. for Marketing and Regulatory Programs in the US Department of Agriculture signed for the United States."

United States and Cuba Sign Maritime Boundary Treaty

The last treaty negotiated and signed between the United States and the Republic of Cuba was the Cuba-United States Maritime Boundary Agreement, signed on 16 December 1977, but never ratified by the United States Senate.  The two governments have maintained to respect the negotiated boundaries in absence of a treaty.

The new treaty is considered to be similar to the treaty of 1977; some view it as a replacement.

United States Department of State
Washington, DC
18 January 2017

Today in Washington, D.C., the United States signed a bilateral treaty with Cuba to delimit their maritime boundary in the eastern Gulf of Mexico.

The treaty delimits the only part of the U.S.-Cuba maritime boundary that had not previously been agreed, and covers an area of continental shelf in the eastern Gulf of Mexico that is more than 200 nautical miles from any country’s shore. The treaty is consistent with the longstanding U.S. goals to resolve our outstanding maritime boundaries and promote maritime safety and protection of the marine environment. Before entry into force, the treaty will warrant the advice and consent of the U.S. Senate.

Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Cuba
Havana, Republic of Cuba
18 January 2017

WASHINGTON, Jan. 18, 2017 .- On Wednesday afternoon, the Treaty between the Republic of Cuba and the United States of America on the Delimitation of the Continental Shelf was signed at the headquarters of the State Department in Washington. The Eastern Polygon of the Gulf of Mexico beyond 200 Nautical Miles. On the Cuban side signed the agreement José Ramón Cabañas Rodríguez, Cuba's ambassador to the United States, and the US side, Mari Carmen Aponte, special adviser for the Western Hemisphere Affairs of the State Department.

With the signing of this Agreement, the continental shelf between the Republic of Cuba and the United States of America in the Eastern Polygon of the Gulf of Mexico was delimited, in accordance with International Law, beyond 200 Nautical Miles. This document provides legal certainty to the Parties for the exercise of their rights of jurisdiction and sovereignty over that maritime area.  (Cubaminrex-Embacuba United States)

Embassy Of Cuba Reportedly Not Included Among 147 Government Representatives Invited To Dinner With President-Elect Trump; Was Invited To Swearing-In Ceremony

On 17 January 2017, President-Elect Donald J. Trump attended the Chairman's Global Dinner at the Andrew W. Mellon auditorium in Washington DC. 

The Honorable Mike Pence, Vice President-Elect of the United States, confirmed that 147 representatives of governments were invited to the event. 

The Presidential Inaugural Committee has not responded to inquiries as to whether a representative of the government of the Republic of Cuba was invited to the event.

The Embassy of the Republic of Cuba in Washington DC has neither reported receiving an invitation to the event nor sending a representative to the event.

The Embassy of the Republic of Cuba reported that H.E. José Ramón Cabañas, Ambassador of the Republic of Cuba to the United States, was among foreign delegation leadership invited to attend the swearing-in ceremony on 20 January 2017 at The Capitol.

US Signs Search & Rescue Binding Agreement With Cuba; MINREX Confirms Before US

Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Cuba
Havana, Republic of Cuba

"CUBA, January 18, 2017.- On Wednesday, January 18, the "Agreement between the Government of the Republic of Cuba and the Government of the United States of America on Aeronautical and Maritime Search and Rescue" was signed. His signature was in charge of the deputy minister of Transportation, Marta Oramas Rivero, and the charge d'affaires a.i. Of the United States Embassy in Havana, Jeffrey DeLaurentis.

The objective of this legally binding instrument is to strengthen cooperation in aeronautical and maritime search and rescue. In this sense, it will allow the coordinated action of both countries in assisting people in danger, as a result of air or sea events.

Such cooperation could include joint exercises, periodic checks of communication channels, reciprocal visits by experts and exchange of information.

The signing of this agreement ratifies the importance that Cuba grants to the search and rescue aeronautical and maritime of people in danger, and constitutes a positive step for the improvement of the relations between the two countries. (Cubaminrex-MITRANS website)"

United States Department of State
Office of the Spokesperson
Washington, DC

"Today, the United States and Cuba signed a bilateral agreement to strengthen cooperation in the field of maritime and aeronautical search and rescue. The agreement aims to enhance effectiveness and efficiency in assisting persons in distress and to act in furtherance of obligations under international law.

The agreement provides for cooperation and coordination between the United States and Cuba in assisting persons in distress at sea, subject to each country’s respective domestic laws.

Chargé d’Affaires of the U.S. Embassy in Havana, Jeffrey DeLaurentis, signed the agreement on behalf of the United States, and Deputy Minister of Transportation Marta Oramas Rivero signed for the Republic of Cuba."

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US Exports Increase 70% In November & Increase 20% For Eleven Months Of 2016

ECONOMIC EYE ON CUBA©
January 2017

November Food/Ag Exports Increased 70% Compared To 2015- 1
21% Increase For Eleven Months Of 2016 Compared To 2015- 1
2015/2016 Will Be First Year-To-Year Increase Since 2011/2012- 2
Healthcare Product Exports Continue To Increase- 2
Humanitarian Donations- 3
Obama Administration Initiatives Product Exports- 3
U.S. Port Export Data- 13
2017 Speaking Schedule- 15

NOVEMBER FOOD/AG EXPORTS INCREASE 70%- Exports of food products & agricultural commodities from the United States to the Republic of Cuba in November 2016 were US$10,594,557.00 compared to US$6,243,680.00 in November 2015 and US$12,452,614.00 in November 2014.  

COMPLETE REPORT IN PDF FORMAT

US & Cuba Sign Law Enforcement MOU

Western Hemisphere: United States and Cuba To Sign Law Enforcement Memorandum of Understanding

On January 16, the United States and Cuba signed a bilateral Law Enforcement Memorandum of Understanding to deepen law enforcement cooperation and information sharing.

Under this memorandum, the United States and Cuba will continue the Law Enforcement Dialogue process, which includes technical exchanges on specific law enforcement issues of mutual concern such as counternarcotics, money laundering, fraud and human smuggling, and counterterrorism.

U.S. Embassy Havana Chargé d’Affaires Jeffrey DeLaurentis signed for the United States and Minister of the Interior Vice Admiral Julio César Gandarilla signed on behalf of Cuba. This MOU was negotiated as part of the Law Enforcement Dialogue, which is co-chaired for the United States by the Departments of Justice, State, and Homeland Security.

Cuba and US sign Memorandum of Understanding on Cooperation in Areas Associated with National Security

CUBA, January 17, 2017.- The governments of the Republic of Cuba and the United States of America signed Monday in Havana a Memorandum of Understanding for Cooperation in Enforcement and Enforcement of the Law that will allow the promotion and expansion of Bilateral ties in important areas of national security in both countries.

The parties agreed to increase coordination for the prevention and confrontation of terrorist acts; Illicit trafficking in narcotic drugs; Crimes committed through the use of information and communication technologies, and cybersecurity issues of mutual interest; Trafficking in persons; Smuggling of migrants; The traffic of flora and fauna; Money laundering; The falsification of identity and travel documents; Smuggling, including firearms, their parts, components, ammunition, explosives, cash and monetary instruments; Among other crimes under the jurisdiction of both countries.

The memorandum was signed by Vice-Admiral Julio Cesar Gandarilla Bermejo, Minister of Interior of the Republic of Cuba and by Ambassador Jeffrey DeLaurentis, Chargé d'affaires of the US Embassy. In Havana.

The signing ceremony of the memorandum was attended by Benjamín Rhodes, US deputy national security adviser, who is on an official visit to the island, as well as representatives of the Defense and National Security Commission and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Cuba (Cubaminrex-Granma)

Deputy National Security Advisor To Havana On Martin Luther King Day Federal Holiday

Today, The Honorable Benjamin Rhodes, Assistant to the President and Deputy National Security Advisor, is traveling aboard a United States military aircraft from Joint Base Andrews (JBA) to Jose Marti International Airport (HAV) in Havana, Republic of Cuba, on Martin Luther King Day, a United States federal holiday.

Unlike his visit to the Republic of Cuba in December 2016, which was not announced in advance and only made public in conjunction with funeral arrangements for H.E. Dr. Fidel Castro Ruz, former president of the Republic of Cuba, this visit was reported in a media release issued by the National Security Council (NSC) this morning.

Post About December 2016 Visit: http://www.cubatrade.org/blog/2016/11/30/deputy-national-security-advisor-ben-rhodes-to-cuba-was-to-have-been-secret-visit?rq=ben%20rhodes

THE WHITE HOUSE
Office of the Press Secretary
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 16, 2017

Statement by NSC Spokesperson Ned Price on Deputy National Security Advisor Ben Rhodes' Travel to Cuba

On Monday, January 16, Deputy National Security Advisor Ben Rhodes will travel to Cuba for official meetings, cultural engagements, and to witness the signing of a U.S.-Cuba Law Enforcement Memorandum of Understanding (MOU).  The arrangement will establish a framework for strengthening our partnership on counternarcotics, counterterrorism, legal cooperation, and money laundering, including technical exchanges that contribute to a strong U.S.-Cuba law enforcement relationship. Mr. Rhodes' trip to Cuba follows last week's announcement that the Department of Homeland Security has ended the so-called "wet-foot/dry foot" policy as well as the Cuban Medical Professional Parole Program – another step forward to normalize relations with Cuba and to bring greater consistency to our immigration policy.

Since the President's December 2014 announcement, we have worked with the people and the Government of Cuba to take steps to normalize our relations – re-establishing diplomatic relations, opening embassies, expanding travel and commercial opportunities, and launching initiatives to help our people cooperate and innovate. The United States and Cuba have reached more than a dozen arrangements to expand cooperation in areas such as health, medical research, agriculture, environmental cooperation, hydrography, marine protected areas, counternarcotics, civil aviation, and direct transportation of mail.

The goals of the President’s Cuba policy have been simple:  to help the Cuban people achieve a better future for themselves and to advance the interests of the United States. While significant differences between our governments continue, the progress of the last two years reminds the world of what is possible when we are defined not by the past but by the future we can build together.

Starr Companies Seeking To Establish Commercial & Personal Insurance Coverage In Cuba

The establishment of a fully-operational commercial and personal insurance environment is essential for a viable, sustainable and expansive United States business presence in the Republic of Cuba.  

The availability of commercial insurance ‎is essential for a full-scale resumption of a vibrant United States financial presence to and within the Republic of Cuba.

Mr. Maurice R. Greenberg, Chairman of Starr Companies, visited the Republic of Cuba on 14 January 2016 and 18 June 2015.  Mr. Greenberg is the Chairman of New York, New York-based Starr Companies and the former Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of New York, New York-based American International Group (AIG).

“Starr Companies (or Starr) is the worldwide marketing name for the operating insurance and travel assistance companies and subsidiaries of Starr International Company, Inc. and for the investment business of C.V. Starr & Co., Inc. and its subsidiaries.   Starr is a leading insurance and investment organization with a presence on five continents; through its operating insurance companies, Starr provides property, casualty, and accident & health insurance products as well as a range of specialty coverages including aviation, marine, energy and excess casualty insurance.  Starr’s insurance company subsidiaries domiciled in the U.S., Bermuda, Hong Kong and Singapore each have an A.M. Best rating of “A” (Excellent).  Starr’s Lloyd’s syndicate has a Standard & Poor’s rating of “A+” (Strong).  Starr’s insurance company subsidiary domiciled in China has an A.M. Best rating of “A-” (Excellent).”

Media Release Excerpts:

Starr Companies’ Assist Card Smalline S.A. Signs Letter of Intent with Asistur S.A., a Cuban Domiciled Company
July 06, 2016

New York, NY – July 6, 2016 – Starr Companies announced today that Assist Card Smalline S.A. “Assist Card,” a wholly owned subsidiary, signed a Letter of Intent with Asistur S.A. “Asistur,” domiciled in Cuba, to provide travel assistance services to the growing number of authorized travelers to Cuba.  Assist Card and Asistur signed the agreement during a recent visit to Havana, Cuba. 

“Agreements like these are important steps in expanding trade relationships between U.S. and Cuban companies,” says Maurice R. Greenberg, Chairman, Starr Companies. “We look forward to continued efforts.”

Starr Companies Statement on Cuba
February 23, 2015

New York, NY – Monday, February 23, 2015 – As certain U.S.-imposed travel and other restrictions regarding Cuba have recently been eased, many U.S. travelers and businesses are considering new opportunities in the country. Maurice R. Greenberg, Chairman of Starr International Company, Inc., issued a statement noting Starr Companies’ unique and historic relationship with Cuba.

“We are at the beginning of what could be new opportunities as Cuba and the United States explore ways of ending years of travel and trade restrictions,” Greenberg says. “Starr is committed to assisting clients that wish to explore their own opportunities in Cuba.”

Starr Companies established its international headquarters in Havana, Cuba in 1943, after it relocated from Shanghai, China. It operated there for nearly 15 years, until it relocated to Bermuda, after diplomatic relations between the United States and Cuba were severed in 1961.

The U.S. began easing restrictions on travel to Cuba on January 16, 2015, thereby prompting large numbers of U.S. individual and business travelers to begin planning visits to Cuba for the purpose of exploring potential local business, cultural and educational opportunities. However, the development of any such opportunities will take time and patience, as the Cuban people and government adjust to an evolving diplomatic and economic relationship with the United States.

Assist-Card International Holdings SA, a Starr subsidiary, operates a leading global travel assistance services business that is uniquely positioned to provide travel assistance services and insurance to individuals seeking to travel to Cuba.

“The challenges of doing business in Cuba are substantial,” Greenberg says. “But Starr is well-positioned and prepared to leverage our relationships and global network to support our clients’ entry into this market.”

Booking.com- Accepting US Credit Cards For Pre-Payment: 9 Properties In October, 46 In December, 53 In January

As of 16 January 2017, fifty-three (53) properties are listed available for booking using the reservation system of Amsterdam, Netherlands-based www.booking.com, which is owned by Norwalk, Connecticut-based The Priceline Group (more than US$55 billion in gross bookings in 2016).  They include:

Casa Teresa Un Santiago De Cuba
Hostal1511
Hostal Rio Miel
Hotel El Castillo
Hotel La Habernera
Hotel La Rusa
Hotel los Helechos
Hotel Playa Coco All-Inclusive
Hotel Playa Costa Verde All-Inclusive
Hotel Playa Pesquero All-Inclusive
Hotel El Bosque
Hotel Kohly
Hotel Playa Coco All-Inclusive
Hotel Playa Pesquero Premium All-Inclusive – Adults Only
Hotel Porto Santo
Hotel Villa Maguana
Melia Buena Vista- Adults Only
Melia Cayo Coco- Adults Only
Melia Cayo Guillermo
Melia Cayo Santa Maria
Melia Cohiba
Melia Habana
Melia Jardines del Rey
Melia las Americas- Adults Only
Melia las Antillas- Adults Only
Melia Las Dunas
Melia Marina Varadero Apartments
Melia Peninsula Varadero
Melia Santiago de Cuba
Melia Varadero
Memories Caribe- Adults Only
Memories Jibacoa- Adults Only
Memories Miramar Habana
NH Capri La Habana
Paradisus Princesa del Mar- Adults Only
Paradisus Rio de Oro Resort & Spa- Adults Only
Paradisus Varadero
Playa Coco Santa Maria All-Inclusive
Royalton Hicacos- Adults Only
Royalton Cayo Santa Maria- Adults Only
Sol Cayo Coco
Sol Cayo Guillermo
Sol Cayo Largo
Sol Cayo Santa Maria
Sol Palmeras
Sol Rio de Luna y Mares
Sol Sirenas Coral Resort
Starfish Las Palmas
Starfish Montehabana
Tryp Cayo Coco
Tryp Habana Libre
Villa Caburni
Villa Cayo Saetia
Villa Pinares de Mayari

According to the company, "Our team is working each and every day with our hotel partners throughout Cuba to expand Booking.com’s offering of bookable properties."

"Regarding your question of our payment process in Cuba, for U.S. travelers booking a Cuban stay, Booking.com collects payment from the guests through our platform at the time the reservation is made and then transfers payment to the hotel partner."

Visitors Traveling From The US To Cuba In 2016 Increased 34% Compared To 2015

In 2016, the total number of visitors to the Republic of Cuba who hold United States passports and/or Cuban passports was 614,433, representing an increase of 34% compared to 2015.

In 2016, the total visitors to the Republic of Cuba who did not hold Republic of Cuba passports was 284,937 compared to 161,233 in 2015.

In 2016, the total visitors to the Republic of Cuba who held Republic of Cuba passports was 329,496 compared with approximately 350,000 in 2015.

According to The Miami Herald, total passengers (United States passport holders and Republic of Cuba passport holders) traveling from Miami International Airport (MIA) to the Republic of Cuba was 588,433 compared to 444,667 in 2015.

According to the Miami-Dade Aviation Department, total passengers arriving and departing for the Republic of Cuba through MIA was 1,029,045 (arrivals- 518,247 & departures- 510,798) in 2016 compared to 808,791 (arrivals- 412,778 & departures- 396,013) in 2015, representing a year-to-year 25% increase in arrivals and 29% increase in departures.

In 2016, United States air carriers requested a combined 3,404,496 seats on an annual basis from the United States to the Republic of Cuba.  In 2016, the Republic of Cuba reported approximately 4,000,000 visitors.  The Republic of Cuba has approximately 66,547 hotel rooms, primarily in the one-star to three-star category based on United States ratings.

In 2016, the United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) awarded route authorities to eight (8) air carriers for US-HAV routes and seven (7) air carriers for non-US-HAV routes.

For the US-HAV routes, the USDOT awarded 1,242,748 seats on an annual basis.

For the non-US-HAV routes, the USDOT awarded 1,060,148 seats on an annual basis.

The USDOT awarded a total of 2,302,896 seats.

The total number of visitors to the Republic of Cuba in 2016 was 4,035,577 compared to 3,524,779 in 2015.  The Republic of Cuba expects 4,199,977 visitors in 2017.

Obama Administration Changes Immigration Policies For Cuba

THE WHITE HOUSE
Office of the Press Secretary

12 January 2017

Statement by the President on Cuban Immigration Policy

Today, the United States is taking important steps forward to normalize relations with Cuba and to bring greater consistency to our immigration policy. The Department of Homeland Security is ending the so-called "wet-foot/dry foot" policy, which was put in place more than twenty years ago and was designed for a different era.  Effective immediately, Cuban nationals who attempt to enter the United States illegally and do not qualify for humanitarian relief will be subject to removal, consistent with U.S. law and enforcement priorities.  By taking this step, we are treating Cuban migrants the same way we treat migrants from other countries. The Cuban government has agreed to accept the return of Cuban nationals who have been ordered removed, just as it has been accepting the return of migrants interdicted at sea.

Today, the Department of Homeland Security is also ending the Cuban Medical Professional Parole Program.  The United States and Cuba are working together to combat diseases that endanger the health and lives of our people. By providing preferential treatment to Cuban medical personnel, the medical parole program contradicts those efforts, and risks harming the Cuban people.  Cuban medical personnel will now be eligible to apply for asylum at U.S. embassies and consulates around the world, consistent with the procedures for all foreign nationals.

The United States, a land of immigrants, has been enriched by the contributions of Cuban-Americans for more than a century.  Since I took office, we have put the Cuban-American community at the center of our policies. With this change we will continue to welcome Cubans as we welcome immigrants from other nations, consistent with our laws.   During my Administration, we worked to improve the lives of the Cuban people - inside of Cuba - by providing them with greater access to resources, information and connectivity to the wider world. Sustaining that approach is the best way to ensure that Cubans can enjoy prosperity, pursue reforms, and determine their own destiny. As I said in Havana, the future of Cuba should be in the hands of the Cuban people.

Should 3 in 2,923 or 3 in 766 be defined as a US Government "Top Priority"?

Whether evaluating in terms of the number of meetings to discuss a resolution to the certified claims by the United States against the Republic of Cuba since the beginning of the Obama Administration- three (3) meetings in 2,923 days or since the bilateral rapprochement on 17 December 2014- three (3) meetings in 766 days, the result is the same…. For the United States government to maintain that a resolution of the issue of the certified claims remains a “top priority” is painfully laughable.

Important to note that after the first meeting and the second meeting, the United States Department of State reported that a follow-up meeting to each had not been scheduled.

United States Department of State
Washington, DC

“The United States and Cuba will hold the third government-to-government meeting on claims in Havana, Cuba, on January 12, 2017. The U.S. delegation will be led by Brian Egan, the Legal Adviser for the U.S. Department of State. The meeting will allow the delegations to build upon previous discussions in Havana and Washington, DC, and to exchange views on technical details and methodologies regarding outstanding claims.

Outstanding U.S. claims include claims of U.S. nationals that were certified by the Foreign Claims Settlement Commission, claims related to unsatisfied U.S. court judgments against Cuba, and claims held by the United States Government. The United States continues to view the resolution of these claims as a top priority.”

Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Havana, Republic of Cuba

"CUBA, January 12, 2017. On Thursday, January 12, the third meeting between representatives of the governments of Cuba and the United States on the subject of mutual compensation was held in Havana. The Cuban delegation was chaired by Abelardo Moreno Fernández, Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs and the US, by Brian Egan, State Department legal adviser.

At this meeting, which continued in Washington on July 28, 2016, delegations continued the exchange on the claims of both States and evaluated possible mechanisms for joint settlement of mutual claims as part of the negotiation process of this complex theme.

The Cuban delegation reiterated that within the framework of this solution, it is essential to consider the claims of the Cuban people for human and economic damages, as reflected in the sentences issued by the Provincial People's Court of Havana in 1999 and 2000, respectively.

The representatives of both governments reiterated the importance and usefulness of continuing these exchanges. (Cubaminrex)"

Bilateral Meeting Timeline

17 December 2014 to 8 December 2015- 356 days between President Barack Obama’s 2,283-word statement (that did not mention certified claimants) and the first meeting of representatives from the government of the Republic of Cuba and the United States Department of State to discuss the issue of certified claims.

8 December 2015 and 28 July 2016- 233 days between the first meeting and second meeting of representatives from the government of the Republic of Cuba and the United States Department of State to discuss the issue of certified claims.

28 July 2016 to 12 January 2017- 168 days between the second meeting and third meeting of representatives from the government of the Republic of Cuba and the United States Department of State to discuss the issue of certified claims.

12 January 2017 to 20 January 2017- 8 days between the third meeting of representatives from the government of the Republic of Cuba and the United States Department of State to discuss the issue of certified claims and the end of the Obama Administration.

Context

The soil upon which United States policy, regulations and laws sprouted since 1961 was created by the seizure of assets by the government of the Republic of Cuba.

There were 8,821 claims of which 5,913 awards have been certified by the United States Foreign Claims Settlement Commission (USFCSC- https://www.justice.gov/fcsc) at the United States Department of Justice which are valued at US$1,902,202,284.95.  

Of these claims, thirty (30) United States-based companies hold 56.85% of the total value.  The USFCSC permitted interest to be accrued in the amount of 6% per annum; with the current value ranging from US$6 billion to US$9 billion.

During the last twenty-three (23) months, the United States Department of State has failed to either create a viable foundation for a settlement of the certified claims or moved significantly forward the process from discussion to negotiation.  They have had a chance.  Now is a moment for a renewed dynamic.

The Obama Administration has professed that a settlement of the certified claims is a priority- a high priority.  There were two meetings in twenty-three months.  The date for a second meeting was not agreed to after the first meeting.  The date for a third meeting was not agreed to after the second meeting.  So much for the issue of the certified claims being a "top priority" and “high priority” for the Obama Administration.

Based upon the results, the Obama Administration would had no intention of negotiating a settlement, but remained content with the imagery of dialogue.  The questions that the United States Department of State never answered:  

  • Why haven’t Certified Claimants Sector Working Groups been established?   
  • Why haven’t certified claimants been summoned to meetings at the United States Department of State to create a negotiating platform?  
  • Is there a Certified Claimants Committee?  Thirty (30) of the certified claimants account for 56% of the principal value of the certified claims.
  • Have Agendas been created- and followed?  
  • Have Modalities of Settlements been established?
  • Where is the Guidance?

Relating Blog Posts:

http://www.cubatrade.org/blog/2016/12/1/zigs56x0gme3a9rqg7aecx9vf2gqgk?rq=certified%20claims

http://www.cubatrade.org/blog/2016/7/29/transcript-of-state-department-briefing-about-us-cuba-claims-discussion?rq=department%20of%20state%2C%20cuba

http://www.cubatrade.org/blog/2016/7/24/28-29-july-2016-may-be-near-last-opportunity-for-us-claimants-to-advocate-face-to-face-for-settlement-before-the-end-of-the-obama-administration?rq=department%20of%20state%2C%20cuba

http://www.cubatrade.org/blog/2016/7/28/us-department-of-state-reports-on-claims-discussion?rq=department%20of%20state%2C%20cuba

Rex Tillerson references Cuba in his remarks to US Senate Foreign Relations Committee

Mr. Rex Tillerson references the Republic of Cuba in his remarks to the United States Senate Foreign Relations Committee...

United States Secretary of State Designate Rex Tillerson
Senate Confirmation Hearing Opening Statement
11 January 2017

Excerpts…..

Good morning.

I am honored to have the backing of Senator Cornyn and Senator Cruz from my home state of Texas. I also want to thank Senator Nunn for his commitment to nuclear non-proliferation, and Secretary Gates for his service to eight presidents and his own leadership as President of the Boy Scouts of America.

Chairman Corker, Ranking Member Cardin, and Members of the Committee, it is an honor to appear before you today as President-elect Trump’s nominee for Secretary of State and to seek the approval of this Committee and the full Senate for my confirmation.

But our leadership demands action specifically focused on improving the conditions of people the world over, utilizing both aid and economic sanctions as instruments of foreign policy when appropriate.

And we must adhere to standards of accountability. Our recent engagement with the government of Cuba was not accompanied by any significant concessions on human rights. We have not held them accountable for their conduct. Their leaders received much, while their people received little. That serves neither the interest of Cubans or Americans.

Abraham Lincoln declared that America is “the last best hope of Earth.” Our moral light must not go out if we are to remain an agent of freedom.

United States and Cuba to Hold Meeting to Fight Trafficking in Persons

United States Department of State
Office of the Spokesperson
Washington, DC
January 11, 2017

The United States and Cuba will hold a meeting to coordinate their efforts to fight trafficking in persons in Washington, D.C., January 12 and 13.  The U.S. delegation will be led by Ambassador-at-Large Susan Coppedge of the Office to Monitor and Combat Trafficking in Persons and Deputy Assistant Secretary John Creamer of the Bureau of Western Hemisphere Affairs.

Working-level representatives from the Department of Justice, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Department of Homeland Security, and the Department of Health and Human Services will also participate.  The Cuban delegation will be led by Director of Bilateral Issues Yuri Ariel Gala Lopez of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ Directorate General for the United States and will include officials from various Cuban agencies.

This is the fourth consecutive exchange between the United States and Cuba on efforts to prevent and prosecute trafficking in persons and protect trafficking victims.  In addition to sharing information about best practices, both sides will seek to identify areas of possible future cooperation.