Uruguay: Review For Suspension of Title III of the Libertad

C O N F I D E N T I A L MONTEVIDEO 000617 SIPDIS E.O. 12958: DECL: 2019/11/12 TAGS: PREL ETRD ETTC CU UY SUBJECT: Uruguay: Review For Suspension of Title III of the Libertad Act REF: STATE 115416; MONTEVIDEO 290 CLASSIFIED BY: Robin Matthewman, Charge; REASON: 1.4(B),(D) ¶1. (SBU) Post provides the following information in response to Ref A request for information on Uruguay's policies related to Cuba. Ref B is Post's reporting for the preceding six-month period. ¶2. (C) President Vazquez led an official visit to Cuba in June 2009, fulfilling a campaign promise made during his 2004 campaign for the presidency. His delegation included the First Lady, Ministers of Foreign Affairs, Economy, Health, Social Development, and Agriculture as well as private sector and labor representatives. The President discussed with Raul Castro possibilities for future reform, especially economic liberalization. ¶3. (SBU) In June 2009, the Cuban-supported eye hospital celebrated its one year anniversary in service, during which period 10,000 cataract operations were completed. ¶4. (SBU) There are two agreements for Uruguayan students to study in Cuba, one for Medicine (a total of 60 students) and another in the area of physical education. ¶5. (SBU) Trade with Cuba has increased significantly since 2005, when the Frente Amplio administration took office and both countries resumed diplomatic relations. Imports from Cuba are virtually nil -under $1 million. Exports to Cuba have risen sharply in recent years and are now about $50 million. Exports are highly concentrated on powder milk and beef, which account for about 85%-90% of total sales. Uruguay enjoys a positive growing trade balance with Cuba. No major change has occurred in trade over the last six months. MATTHEWMAN