The Biden-Harris Administration has taken significant steps to support the Cuban people, focusing on empowering them to determine their future and promoting human rights. The administration aims to reunify Cuban families, enhance cultural and educational ties between Cuba and the United States, facilitate remittances, and support independent Cuban entrepreneurs.
In collaboration with the Catholic Church under Pope Francis's leadership, several measures have been announced. President Biden has notified Congress of his decision to remove Cuba from the list of State Sponsors of Terrorism. Additionally, a waiver for Title III of the Helms-Burton Act, also known as the Libertad Act, has been issued for six months.
President Biden has also rescinded the 2017 National Security Presidential Memorandum 5 on Cuba policy. This action eliminates the "restricted list" and additional regulations affecting U.S. engagement with Cuban entities beyond current U.S. legislation requirements. The Catholic Church informed that Cuba will soon release a substantial number of political prisoners.
These actions aim to bolster dialogue between Cuba's government and the Catholic Church. President Biden acknowledges advice from global leaders, particularly in Latin America, who encouraged these steps to advance human rights in Cuba. The administration appreciates the Catholic Church's efforts in facilitating constructive measures by Cuba to restore liberty and improve living conditions for its citizens.