As part of President Obama’s historic visit, a memorandum of understanding on agricultural cooperation was signed today, March 21, by Thomas Vilsack, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture and Gustavo Rodríguez, Cuban minister for the sector.
In a statement to the press, Rodríguez indicated that the agreement represents “the road toward collaboration, which will not be exempt from obstacles,” given the effects of the U.S. blockade, while reaffirming his conviction that important steps forward can be taken on the basis of mutual respect.
Vilsack, for his part, agreed with his counterpart that the blockade must end, and emphasized that he will continue to work for greater cooperation, inviting Rodriguez to an upcoming event in Puerto Rico on climate change.
Speaking with Granma, Rodríguez said important steps will be taken as a result of the agreement given the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s authority and its active support for cooperation, especially in the areas of plant and livestock health.
(Granma)