[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 42, Number 31 (Monday, August 7, 2006)]
[Pages 1434-1435]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Statement on Cuba

August 3, 2006

    The United States is actively monitoring the situation in Cuba 
following the announcement of a transfer of power. At this time of 
uncertainty in Cuba, one thing is clear: The United States is absolutely 
committed to supporting the Cuban people's aspirations for democracy and 
freedom. We have repeatedly said that the Cuban people deserve to live 
in freedom. I encourage all democratic nations to unite in support of 
the right of the Cuban people to define a democratic future for their 
country. I urge the Cuban people to work for democratic change on the 
island. We will support you in your effort to build a transitional 
government in Cuba committed to democracy, and we will take note of 
those, in the current Cuban regime, who obstruct your desire for a free 
Cuba. In the event of a transition in the Cuban Government, we stand 
ready to provide humanitarian assistance as needed to help the Cuban 
people. It has long been the

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hope of the United States to have a free, independent, and democratic 
Cuba as a close friend and neighbor. In achieving this, the Cuban people 
can count on the full and unconditional support of the United States.

Note: The Office of the Press Secretary also released a Spanish language 
version of this statement.