Cuba-American relationships

The recent fainting spell of Cuba's Fidel Castro should send a signal to the United States and a shudder down the spine of Cuba- watchers.

Bush pledged during the campaign and since his election that he will tighten the 40-year-old embargo on Cuba, which unfortunately hurts no one but the Cuban people.

When the 75-year-old Castro finally dies -- it's unlikely that he will voluntarily step down; few dictators do -- there will be a power struggle among his hand- picked bureaucrats. ...

A peaceful market economy and eventual democracy is the hoped- for scenario. But to see that happen, the United States must not continue to unnecessarily punish Cuba.

The four-decade embargo has not loosened Castro's grip. It has merely forced the Cuban people into horrible poverty and given Castro an excuse to blame the United States.

The only hope for Cuba is a gradual opening of relations with the United States. More trade means more economic hope for the Cubans. Open political discussions could establish a link to Castro's successor.

Closer, more open ties with Cuba, not more isolation, is the key to life in Cuba after Castro.

-- The Tulsa World, Tulsa, Oklahoma.