Statement by Rep. Van Hollen Released As President's Plane Lands at Andrews Air Base with Alan Gross

Press Release

Maryland Congressman Chris Van Hollen released the following statement after returning from Cuba with Alan Gross and President Obama's speech on a new strategy of engagement with Cuba:

"Today the President launched a new strategy of engagement with Cuba and its people. For 54 years the U.S. has tried to bring about positive change and reform in Cuba by attempting to isolate the island nation. It is clear that -- as measured by our own goals -- that policy has been a miserable failure. Over the last five decades, the

Castro brothers have outlasted over eight American presidents and very little has changed. The oft-cited definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over and expecting a different result.

"Today, President Obama opened a new chapter in our relations with Cuba -- a fresh policy better tailored to the 21st Century than the Cold War relic of our policy to date. President Obama's actions recognize that the best way to bring about positive change in Cuba is through more -- not less -- engagement with the island and its people. More travel, more trade, and more communication between the United States and Cuba will expose Cuba to the benefits of the free exchange of goods and ideas. Those in Cuba who want to limit individual freedom may fear this, but Americans, and those who want to expand freedom, should welcome it.

"I have had the good fortune of knowing Alan Gross since the early 2000s, and, ever since he was imprisoned in Cuba, his wife, Judy, has been tireless in seeking his release. It has been an honor to work with her and many of my colleagues in the Congress to set Alan free. And today, I had the privilege of accompanying Judy Gross, as well as Senator Leahy, Senator Flake, and Judy's very dedicated attorney, Scott Gilbert, on the flight to Cuba to bring Alan home. Alan Gross did not ask to shape history. He was unjustly swept up in the conflict between the U.S. and Cuba. But, in the end, Alan Gross proved to be a catalyst for change. After five years in a Cuban prison, Alan Gross is not only thrilled to be free, but also welcomes the new approach to Cuba and its people."

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