Cuban leader Miguel Díaz-Canel stated this Friday that he is part of the negotiations that the regime is holding with the United States, alongside Raúl Castro, and acknowledged that the process is still in an initial stage.
During an appearance before the pro-government press, Díaz-Canel confirmed the existence of conversations with Washington, a topic that—he said—had fueled speculation in recent weeks.
"It's a long process; we are in the initial phases of that process," the president stated.
The leader also noted that both he and Raúl Castro are directly involved in the discussions, which —according to his explanation— have been facilitated by international actors.
According to Díaz-Canel, the contacts aim to identify the main issues in the bilateral relationship between the two countries, assess whether there is a willingness to adopt measures that benefit both nations, and explore potential areas of cooperation.
In that regard, he indicated that the discussions aim to create conditions that allow for "guaranteeing peace" and moving towards a less confrontational relationship.
The ruler emphasized that this is "a very sensitive process that is approached with discretion, seriousness, and responsibility," due to the implications it would have for the relationship between Havana and Washington.
He also stated that the intention would be to "move away from confrontation," always—according to him—"based on respect for the political systems of both countries."
"That is the moment we are in," concluded Díaz-Canel.
The discreet conversations between the administration of Donald Trump and representatives of the real power in Cuba are progressing amidst a possibility that until recently seemed unthinkable.
Despite Miguel Díaz-Canel's statements, sources from the U.S. government have indicated that the Cuban leader could become an obstacle to the economic and political changes that Washington seeks to promote.
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