The meeting of the council, created on Sept. 25 under the auspices of the Chambers of Commerce of both countries, drew more than 50 businessmen from major U.S. companies, such as Morgan Stanley, Home Depot, Caterpillar, Boeing, American Airlines, Heinz Kraft, Fox News and the Wall Street Journal and Sprint, among others.
According to Cuba's National Information Agency (AIN), both parties agreed that the U.S.-led trade embargo remains the main obstacle to bilateral trade ties.
"The sizable U.S. delegation demonstrates the willingness of the U.S. business community to do business with Cuba and shows the failure of the economic blockade imposed by Washington," Malmierca told reporters.
He also reaffirmed Cuba's willingness to maintain strong economic ties with its traditional partners, including China, Venezuela, Spain and Russia.
In July, Cuba and the United States restored diplomatic ties, which were severed by Washington on Jan. 3, 1961.
Twenty-nine U.S. companies are participating in the 33rd Fihav event, which runs through Nov. 7.
By Ruchi Singh
Copyright ⓒ Aju Press All rights reserved.
