The US State Department has removed Cuba from the list of countries not fully cooperating with the US on counterterrorism efforts. Multiple factors contributed to this change, including the resumption of law enforcement cooperation between the US and Cuba in 2023, as well as Cuba’s willingness to engage with Colombia on extradition requests for National Liberation Army (ELN) members. Colombia’s attorney general also announced the suspension of arrest warrants, further improving relations between the countries.
As a result of these developments, the State Department determined that Cuba’s certification as a ‘not fully cooperating country’ was no longer appropriate. Despite this change, North Korea, Iran, Syria, and Venezuela remain on the list of countries not cooperating on counterterrorism efforts. The decision by the State Department reflects improved relations between Cuba and the US and a recognition of Cuba’s efforts to combat terrorism both domestically and internationally.
The Cuban government welcomed the State Department’s decision but also called for the US to remove the country from another list that designates it as a sponsor of terrorism. Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez Parrilla emphasized that Cuba collaborates fully with efforts against terrorism and that the country’s inclusion on the list of countries sponsoring terrorism is arbitrary and unjust. The Cuban government hopes that all political manipulation of the issue will cease and that Cuba will be removed from the list.
The removal of Cuba from the list of countries not fully cooperating on counterterrorism efforts marks a significant step in improving relations between the US and Cuba. The resumption of law enforcement cooperation and the willingness to engage with Colombia on extradition requests demonstrate Cuba’s commitment to combating terrorism and cooperating with international partners. The decision by the State Department is a positive development that reflects the progress made in diplomatic relations between the two countries.
While the State Department’s decision is a positive step, there are still challenges to overcome in US-Cuba relations. The US and Cuba continue to have differences on various issues, including Cuba’s designation as a sponsor of terrorism. The Cuban government’s call for the US to remove the country from this list highlights the need for further dialogue and cooperation between the two nations. It is essential for both countries to continue working together to address shared challenges and promote mutual understanding.
Overall, the decision to remove Cuba from the list of countries not fully cooperating on counterterrorism efforts is a significant development that reflects the progress made in US-Cuba relations. Cuba’s efforts to improve cooperation with the US and other countries in combating terrorism are commendable, and the State Department’s decision recognizes these efforts. Moving forward, it is essential for both countries to build on this positive momentum and continue working together to address shared challenges and promote peace and security in the region.
