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The Globe and Mail.
Canda, June 7, 2003.
Havana (AP)— Cuban President Fidel Castro did not speak at a political
rally Saturday protesting U.S. policies toward his country, but told reporters
afterward he would have plenty to say in the coming days about recent events.
The 76-year-old leader said after a government-organized rally in a Havana
neighbourhood: "In these days, there will have to be a lot of talking, and
the unmasking of many."
Apparently referring to the European Union's recent announcement it was
reviewing its policies toward Cuba, Mr. Castro said: "We are wondering why
we got the first word from the news cables."
The EU said Thursday it was beginning a review of its relations with Cuba
after the Castro government's recent crackdown on dissidents on the island -
sentencing 75 people to prison terms of up to 28 years - and the firing-squad
executions of three convicted hijackers of a ferry.
The activists were accused of being mercenaries working with the U.S.
government to undermine Mr. Castro's government. The dissidents and American
officials deny the allegations.
The 15-member EU said it was "deeply concerned about the continuing
flagrant violation of human rights and of fundamental freedoms of members of the
Cuban opposition and of independent journalists."
EU members unanimously agreed to cut down on high-level governmental visits
and review relations overall.
Foreign Minister Felipe Perez Roque said Friday the EU had not sent Cuba a
copy of the document carried by news organizations. He also said the EU "has
been incapable of formulating its own policies toward Cuba and has given in to
American policies."
Less than two months ago, the EU opened a new office in Havana that
officials hoped would improve and deepen relations between Europe and Cuba. | 
