He added that those who had tried to invest in communist Cuba had found themselves burned. Mr Powell did not name specific countries, but Washington has been critical of moves by Canada, Mexico and Venezuela to promote trade and business in the island. The secretary of state said there was no chance of improved relations with Havana, until President Castro was out of power. It will happen, he will pass. Washington imposed full economic sanctions against Cuba in 1962, three years after the revolution that brought Fidel Castro to power.
Critics say the main victims are Cuba's poor and sick.
Those who back an easing of sanctions argue that increased contacts between the US and Cuba would help to weaken President Castro's hold on power.