    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: William J. Clinton (1998, Book I)]
    [May 20, 1998]
    [Pages 814-815]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Radio Remarks on Cuban Independence Day
    May 20, 1998

        I want to say hello to all listeners of Radio Marti. On behalf of
    the people of the United States, I offer you warmest wishes on this
    Cuban Independence Day.
        The United States is determined to help Cuba achieve a peaceful
    transition to democracy. And as part of our effort, I announced in March
    that the U.S. would permit direct humanitarian flights, transfers of
    money from families in the United States to relatives in Cuba, and
    streamline procedures for the sale of medicines to your country.
        These steps are aimed at building on Pope John Paul's historic visit to Cuba, increasing humanitarian relief and
    supporting the role of the church and other elements of civil society.
    We're committed to helping Cuba's courageous democracy and human rights
    advocates as they work for a brighter future. We continue to be
    concerned about those who languish in Cuban jails. We urge the Cuban
    Government to release all political prisoners and reintegrate them into
    Cuban society.
        Cubans will never be free until Cubans are free to speak out and
    organize for fundamental

    [[Page 815]]

    change. We send you a message of hope; we must work together to promote
    freedom in the only country in our hemisphere which does not yet enjoy
    it. I believe the Cuban people want democracy and that they will relish
    it and prosper in every realm--political, economic, and cultural--once
    they are free.
        Before I sign off, let me congratulate the Office of Cuba
    Broadcasting, home to Radio and TV Marti, as it begins broadcasting from
    its new headquarters in Miami today. Here, closer to their listeners,
    Radio and TV Marti will continue to bring information, hope, and
    encouragement to the people of Cuba.
        My best wishes to all of you, and thank you for listening.

    Note: The President's remarks were recorded at approximately 11:30 a.m.
    in the Oval Office at the White House for later broadcast, and the
    transcript was embargoed for release until 1:30 p.m. A tape was not
    available for verification of the content of these remarks.