Chretien reflects on Cuba trip

	Chretien Interview

April 29, 1998
Web posted at: 8:07 p.m. EDT (0007 GMT)

OTTAWA (CNN) -- After his first state visit to communist Cuba, Canadian Prime Minister Jean Chretien says he is convinced that "the potential of that island is fantastic" -- and that "everybody would benefit" if the United States would end its three-decade-long attempt to isolate the island nation.

In an exclusive interview with CNN Havana Bureau Chief Lucia Newman after his return to Canada, Chretien also said he has been asked to relay a message from Cuban President Fidel Castro to the American government and people.

"He would like to have more normal relations with the United States," Chretien said, adding that he believes it is now time for the U.S. government "to be benevolent."

 

CNN Community:

• U.S./Cuba relations

Related stories:

• Castro rebuffs Chretien's call for reform - April 28, 1998
• Chretien appeals for release of 4 Cuban dissidents - April 27, 1998
• Chretien shakes hands with Castro
• Chretien's trip to Cuba could make lasting impression - April 26, 1998
• Cuban political prisoners leaving for exile in Canada - April 6, 1998

Related sites:

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• Government of Canada Primary Internet Site
• Cuba News - Noticias by CubaNet News.
• Organization of American States

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