Chronicle on Cuba - October 2009

Highlights

Domestic Affairs: Cuba begins an experiment to close state-run lunchrooms. Official media suggest the idea of eliminating the ration card. The Cuban government acknowledges seven deaths from the AH1N1 flu virus. Cuban blogger Yoani Sanchez is denied government permission to travel to receive an award. Catholic publications urge the government to show more flexibility in domestic policy. The independent press and opposition organizations denounce harassment and detentions against dissidents.

Economy: Cuba has not benefited from sugar high prices in world market. The Cuban government is reopening abandoned factories. Cuba and Russia sign an agreement on fishery. Cuba and ALBA country members sign the implementation of the Unique System for Regional Compensation (SUCRE). Business between Cuba and four of its top five trading partners declines.

Exile Community: A strong majority of Cuban Americans favor allowing all Americans to travel to the island. Exile organizations criticize Spain’s foreign policy towards Cuba. Consenso Cubano urges the Cuban Government to lift measures against the Cuban family.
 
Foreign Affairs: Cuba receives the visit of high dignitaries from Africa, Latin America, Asia, and the Caribbean. Venezuela welcomes a new group of 240 Cuban doctors. Cuba’s Vice-President attends the ALBA Summit in Bolivia. The Spanish Foreign Minister visit to Cuba sparks controversial opinions. Ecuador’s Vice-President meets with Fidel Castro. The Director General of the World Health Organization visits Cuba. The UN General Assembly overwhelmingly condemns the US trade embargo on Cuba.

Security: A military delegation from South Africa visits Cuba. ALBA Summit fails to agree on a military alliance.