Zelaya calls for immediate membership for Cuba at OAS Assembly

San Pedro Sula

June 2nd 2009 UTILA EAST WIND   In the inaugural session of the Organization of American States General Assembly Meeting, Honduran President Manuel Zelaya called for the immediate reinstatement of Cuba as a full member within the OAS.

Cuba was removed from the OAS almost 50 years ago, but times have changed and the United States is the only country in the Americas without full diplomatic ties with the Communist Nation.

José Miguel Insulza, the Secretary General of the OAS in his speech to the General Assembly spoke of the long standing history of the OAS, its democratic principals and successes over the last years and made clear that democracy is the foundation of the OAS.

With most members of the OAS in favor of Cuba’s reinstatement, it is expected the Assembly would vote in favor of the admittion of Cuba givin the opportunity.

US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton has not yet addressed the Assembly. When she does, it is expected that she ask for conditions to Cuba’s entry be included in the document that would be voted on.

The General Assembly Meeting is taking place under heavy security and will continue through to June 3rd.