The global response to the Haitian earthquake crisis has inspired a rare diplomatic agreement between the United States and Cuba -- over flight rights for rescue efforts.The White House is working with France, Cuba, the Dominican Republic and others to help Haiti.
The U.S. needed Cuban help because its base at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba -- yes, the sight of the much-disputed terrorism prison camp -- is also a medical facility for victims of the earthquake in Haiti.
This morning the White House announced: "We have coordinated with the Cuban government for authorization to fly medical evacuation flights from the U.S. Naval Station Guantanamo Bay to Miami, through Cuban airspace, cutting 90 minutes off one-way flight time." USA Today
Obama got to speak to Haiti's president this morning:
"President Obama spoke for roughly thirty minutes with President Preval of Haiti this morning. President Obama said that the world has been devastated by the loss and suffering in Haiti, and pledged the full support of the American people for the government and people of Haiti as it relates to both the immediate recovery effort, and the long-term rebuilding effort. President Preval said that he has been touched by the friendship of the American people, and expressed his condolences for the loss of American citizens in Haiti. He said that the needs are great, that relief is now flowing in to the people of Haiti, and noted the support that has come from both America and many other countries from the region and around the world. The two Presidents underscored the need to closely coordinate assistance efforts among the various parties, including the Haitian government, the United Nations, the United States and the many international partners and aid organizations on the ground. President Obama underscored his commitment to supporting the government and people of Haiti through his team on the ground. President Preval closed by passing a message to the American people, 'from the bottom of my heart and on behalf of the Haitian people, thank you, thank you, thank you.'" Politico
