It's about self-determination, the opportunity to forge your own future.
Barack Obama
The Public Record
Barack Obama served as the 44th President of the United States from January 20, 2009, to January 20, 2017. A member of the Democratic Party, he previously represented Illinois in the U.S. Senate from 2005 to 2008 and served in the Illinois State Senate from 1997 to 2004. Obama is known for his signature policies including the Affordable Care Act, also known as Obamacare, and his efforts in economic recovery following the 2008 financial crisis. His presidency was marked by significant legislative achievements and a focus on healthcare reform, climate change, and foreign policy initiatives such as the Iran nuclear deal.
It is the policy of the Federal Government to coordinate and use applicable Federal investments, assets, and expertise to promote drought resilience.
Today, about half a million Cubans—including some of you—are proud cuentapropistas, running your own restaurants, cafes, beauty salons, barber shops, or working as artists, seamstresses, and taxi drivers.
The United States will continue to speak up on behalf of democracy, including the right of the Cuban people to decide their own future.
Facilitating more interaction between the Cuban and American people is the best way to achieve our goal.
I believe that if we stay on this course, we can deliver a better and brighter future for both the Cuban people and the American people.
We remain convinced the Cuban people would be best served by being able to freely choose their leaders, express their ideas without fear, and practice their faith.
We have great confidence the steps we have taken over the past year will lead to a better future for both the American and Cuban people.
If all you're doing is selling commodities, then it's very hard to spur significant economic growth.





