US, Cuba reopen embassies in 54 years

The U.S. and Cuba will open embassies in Havana and Washington, each other’s capital, on Monday. The reopening of embassies is in accordance with the U.S.-Cuba agreement on the normalization of diplomatic relations announced in December 2014. Flags of the U.S. and Cuba will fly over embassies in both nations in 54 years since the breakup of diplomatic relations on Jan. 3, 1961.

Cuban and U.S Sections of Interests, which have handled consular duties since 1977, will be promoted to embassies. On Monday morning, the 30-member Cuban delegation headed by Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez will participate in the reopening ceremony of the Cuban embassy, a three-story limestone building located 2.5 kilometers north of the White House. From the U.S. side, some 500 invited guests, including U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for Western Hemisphere Affairs Roberta Jacobson, will attend the ceremony.

Minister Rodriguez who arrived in Washington on the previous day will attend the reopening ceremony to deliver an opening speech and officially raise the Cuban flag. On Monday afternoon, Rodriguez will visit the U.S. State Department to meet with U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry, having discussions on pending issues such as lifting of economic sanctions by the U.S. and return of the Guantanamo Bay Naval Base.

The U.S. government will promote its Section of Interests in the north of Havana to an embassy on Monday. Official opening ceremony will be held during Kerry’s visit to Cuba and the Stars and Stripes will be officially hoisted.

Both nations have started a selection process of ambassadors. Until a new ambassador is appointed, the head of Section of Interest will act for ambassador. Challenges are expected, however, as some U.S. Republicans who oppose the normalization of diplomatic ties with Cuba are likely to oppose nomination of a new ambassador.

kyle@donga.com