Cuba's revolutionary heroes were dedicated to securing the same ideals that our own patriots of the American Revolution pursued - basic freedoms that are the birthright of all people. Freedoms that I believe will once again pervade this island nation once liberation is achieved. Thanks to the work of the Hispanic leaders throughout our state and through the recommendations of the Free Cuba Task Force, New Jersey will be prepared to take a leadership role in the restoration of economic, social and cultural opportunities in a Post-Castro Cuba.
International trade is one of the fastest growing segments of New Jersey's economy.
Cuba will be a country dependent upon other nations for trade and investments opportunities. As a result, the work of the Free Cuba Task Force has become increasingly more important. Created by Governor Whitman in October 1994, the Free Cuba Task Force is charged with developing a strategy that will enable the state of New Jersey and the people of Cuba to forge a partnership that will provide a foundation for a strong economy that will result from eventual democratic reform. New Jersey has the second largest population of Cuban Americans in the United States. Earlier in the day, Commerce Secretary Gualberto Medina saluted the accomplishments of New Jersey's Hispanic Business Community at a press conference and reception announcing the Statewide Hispanic Chamber of Commerce's 1999 Business Awards.