Castro resignation is new opportunity

Fidel’s decision to finally step down and allow his brother, and younger people to take over leadership is a positive development. Cuba now has an opportunity to begin the transition to a more democratic and free state while retaining the significant accomplishments of their revolution.
The world, particularly the U.S., must take advantage of this window of opportunity to begin dialogue with Cuba with a view to normalizing diplomatic and economic relations with the island.
Senator Obama is certainly likely to pursue this course if elected as he has stated he would dialogue with enemy states.
Hilary Clinton would be wise to likewise. However she is more beholden to Miami Cuban exile community and therefore might be more cautious in proceeding with a thaw in relations. This would be a mistake.
John McCain would continue the hardline with Cuba.
Canada has always had good relations with Cuba going back to Pierre Trudeau - a friend to the island and Castro. Canada needs to take advantage of this history of friendship and the economic opportunities that will emerge as the country enters this transition period.
For myself, I hope to visit the island before Tim Horton’s franchises open in Havana.