Time for Trade Embargo against Cuba to end

Though the President has relaxed some restrictions against Cuba they are far from enough. Five decades of isolation of the island country didn't work to either side's advantage. It is ironic that there was a double standard by American administrations until now in treatment of Cuba as compared for example to Saudi Arabia and China. Our trade relationship with them is not contingent on their human rights record which is pretty abominable. Our own history in the matter is not exactly stellar. Recent history of treatment of prisoners in Guantanamo and Abu Graib is simply scandalous. Who are we to point fingers at others when our own house is not yet in order? The constant refrain; 'We are so good and they are so bad' is ridiculous and unrealistic. That doesn't mean I am not against persecution of people who have differences with their government's regime. Of course Cuba should be pressured to release its political prisoners. But going to such length as complete trade embargo against a close neighbor is a mistake. It is clear form documentaries and other reports that Cuba has turned into a shabby looking place though still prolific in culture. Shortages of consumer goods are chronic and tourist industry is in doldrums. In spite of free health care and education the future for young people is not promising. Many still think a dangerous boat trip to our shores is their best hope. Do we really want to encourage that kind of immigration? Their closest neighbors in US are barred from visiting the country by our Government. That is down-right undemocratic, our citizens' freedom is being curtailed! We are always reiterating how important that Freedom is to us. Some Americans still visit Cuba via Canada or Mexico. The Cuban border police doesn't stamp their passports to keep them from getting in trouble back home. Older generations of Cuban immigrants in Miami still vote for anti-Castro policy from Washington. They don't get it. The dream to overthrow the Castro brothers is a lost cause. They have learned nothing from 50 years of failure in that effort. Trade relationship is very important in opening people's mind to outside influence. The Cuban people are too fatigued from years of oppression to have the will to start violent protests that may lead to bloodshed. The change is much more likely to happen gradually and we could be an important instrument in it. Why not start with commerce and tourism? We may not need Cuban cigars or rum or sugar but there are other products we could profit greatly from. The first that comes to mind is internationally famous Medical Research conducted by Cuban scientists. They are far ahead of us in that respect. There is a lot of talent there. Talking about talent, Cuba must be full of excellent mechanics. Look at the way they have been able to keep ancient American cars working! There is a market there for American collectors of 'classic' cars. We should be also able to enjoy their rich culture, customs, cuisine and a lot more. This article was published by: http://www.searchwarp.com/ PS: Second photo from top: View of Havana. Third photo: Tropicana Cuban dancers.