La politica de Canada hacia Cuba: evolucion del compromiso constructivo

In: Foro internacional: revista trimestral, Band 43, Heft 3, S. 645-674

Abstract

In view of Cuba's circumstances after the collapse of the Soviet Union & the changes that took place in the international system, the Canadian government of Jean Chretien sought to contribute to what he deemed an inevitable transformation of Cuba into an open economy & a political system with representative institutions, & respectful of human rights. According to Warren, this policy of constructive engagement resulted from the Liberal government's new hemispheric strategy of strengthening ties with Latin America & increasing Canada's autonomy vis-a-vis US foreign policy. Additionally, a policy of constructive engagement was viable due to both a positive attitude on the part of Canadian public & the absence of an exile community ready to prevent a rapprochement with the Cuban government. Constructive engagement included giving diplomatic support to Cuba, promoting trade & investment with the island, & intensifying cultural exchanges between both countries. Moreover, Canada offered a series of economic & social aid, involving NGOs & churches to advise the Cuban government on issues concerning economic reform, human rights, & governance, among other things. However, Castro's reluctance to open the economy & the political system set the limits of constructive engagement: facing a public opinion that questioned the effectiveness of the policy, the Canadian government reconsidered its position & reduced some of the assistance & exchange programs with the island, as well as Canada's diplomatic support. Warren concludes that Cuba is no longer considered a priority or a particular concern by Canadian government, firms, or even NGOs, & the island's ranking within Canada's foreign policy will depend on the significance given to the Latin American hemisphere as a whole. Adapted from the source document.