Normalization of diplomatic relations between the United States and Cuba stimulated both accolades and criticism. Gustavo Flores-Macías, professor of government at Cornell University, former director of public affairs in Mexico’s Consumer Protection Agency, and author of “After Neoliberalism? The Left and Economic Reforms in Latin America,” says that opening relations between the two probably will lead to numerous business opportunities for the two nations, improved relations between Latin America and the U.S., and the potential to contribute to regime change in Cuba.

Flores-Macías says:

“The change in policy has the potential to contribute to regime change in Cuba through civil society engagement and the projection of American soft power. It also partially deactivates Cuba’s ability to blame its problems on U.S. policy toward the island.

“Further, the changes open the door for increased business engagement between the two countries, both for Cubans seeking to start their own business and for American companies that have until now been restricted from business opportunities in Cuba. Beyond Cuba, the policy will likely improve U.S. standing in Latin America.”

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