Welch Statement on Release of Alan Gross and Breakthrough in US-Cuban Relations

Statement

Rep. Peter Welch made the following statement after the Cuban government released USAID contractor Alan Gross and President Obama announced an historic breakthrough in U.S.-Cuban relations:

"This is great news for Alan Gross who is back home with his family during this special holiday season. But it is also great news for the American and Cuban people. With this announcement, both governments are mothballing the antiquated Cold War-like foreign policy that has characterized our bilateral relationship for decades in favor of a new era of openness and cooperation. I applaud President Obama for his bold leadership. And I am especially proud of the quiet and persistent leadership of Senator Patrick Leahy who has been instrumental throughout the delicate discussions that led to the release of Mr. Gross and to this historic foreign policy breakthrough."

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