US President Donald Trump on Wednesday told a White House audience to “watch” what Secretary of State Marco Rubio does with Cuba, highlighting the Cuban-American diplomat while praising his work on US foreign policy.
Trump made the remarks during a National Hispanic Heritage Month celebration at the White House. He did not announce any new policy towards Cuba or provide details about what he was referring to.
Trump singles out Rubio over Cuba
“Watch what he does with Cuba. Watch what he does with Cuba,” Trump said while introducing Rubio at the event.
The US President then broadened his comments to praise Rubio’s role in dealing with foreign policy issues around the world.
“We’re also honoured to be joined on this occasion by the highest-ranking Hispanic American in the history of our country,” Trump said.
“And he’s a man who everyone is just — they’ve fallen in love with him, he’s very special.”
Trump later said Rubio’s work extended beyond his role in relation to Cuba.
“But regardless, Hispanic American or no matter who he deals with, anybody all over the world, he’s a master,” Trump said.
Trump then invited Rubio to address the gathering.
Rubio speaks about Hispanic American identity
In his brief remarks, Rubio spoke about Hispanic Americans’ connection to the United States and the experiences of immigrant families.
“All I would say is Hispanic Americans, we are Americans. We love this country,” Rubio said.
“And we love it because so many of us either know firsthand, or through our parents or grandparents, what life is like in other countries.”
Rubio said those experiences had given Hispanic Americans an understanding of the freedoms and opportunities available in the United States.
“And so, we know how special this country is. It’s the place that gave us freedom; it’s the place that gave us opportunity; it’s the place that’s given our parents, our grandparents, and many of you the chance not just to do well in life, but to do the most important thing any of us ever want, and that is to leave our children better off than ourselves,” Rubio said.
“That is what makes America special, that’s why we love it, that’s why we’re passionate about it, that is our heritage in this country.”
Rubio concluded: “We are proud to be Americans, and I’m proud to be here and to serve under you, Mr President.”
Trump praises Rubio again
Trump responded by again praising the Secretary of State after his remarks.
“So, how did he do? Good, right? He’s an unbelievable man. Really amazing,” Trump said.
The President’s reference to Cuba came as Latin America and US policy towards the region featured prominently in his remarks. Trump also discussed Venezuela, immigration and his administration’s relationship with Hispanic Americans.
Cuba remains a focus of US policy
Rubio, the son of Cuban immigrants, has long been associated with US policy towards Cuba and Latin America. Before becoming Secretary of State, he represented Florida in the US Senate and was a prominent congressional voice on Cuba, Venezuela and other issues concerning the Western Hemisphere.
Trump’s latest comments came shortly after Rubio said the United States hoped Cuba would “choose a different path” and warned that Cuban leaders who expected to outlast the Trump administration without reforms could face consequences.
The Trump administration has also taken measures to increase pressure on the Cuban government. In May, the White House announced new sanctions targeting Cuban government officials and others it said were connected to repression and threats to US national security and foreign policy.
(With inputs from IANS)
Watch what Marco Rubio does with Cuba, says Donald Trump
