US, Cuba to Discuss Normalizing Economic Relations on Wednesday

According to US Department of Commerce, US Secretary of Commerce Penny Pritzker on Wednesday will discuss in Cuba bilateral economic development with representatives of the country's government after a long break in US-Cuba diplomatic relations.

WASHINGTON (Sputnik) – US Secretary of Commerce Penny Pritzker on Wednesday will discuss in Cuba bilateral economic development with representatives of the country's government after a long break in US-Cuba diplomatic relations, the US Department of Commerce said.

The department head arrived in Havana on Tuesday, marking the second official visit by a US administrative authority since the beginning of a new phase of cooperation between the United States and Cuba in July.

Pritzker is expected to co-chair a Regulatory Dialogue with Cuban authorities and hold talks with Cuban Minister of Foreign Trade and Investment Rodrigo Malmierca, Cuban Minister of Foreign Affairs Bruno Rodriguez, and Vice-President of the Council of Ministers Ricardo Cabrisas.

On Tuesday, Pritzker visited the Mariel Special Development Zone to familiarize herself with the area.

In December 2014, US President Barack Obama announced the United States would normalize relations with Cuba. The two countries reopened embassies in their respective capitals on July 20, after more than 50 years of non-engagement.

In September, the US presidential administration announced relaxed regulations with Cuba, making it easier for US citizens to travel to Cuba and conduct business in the island nation.

Despite the relief in tensions, the United States maintains a trade embargo on Havana mandated by the US Congress.