For Immediate Release
Office of the Press Secretary
July 17, 2006

Text of a Letter from the President to the Chairmen and Ranking Members of the House and Senate Committees on International Relations, Foreign Relations, and Appropriations

July 16, 2006

Dear Chairman: (Dear Representative:) (Dear Senator:)

Consistent with section 306(c)(2) of the Cuban Liberty and Democratic Solidarity (LIBERTAD) Act of 1996 (Public Law 104 114) (the "Act"), I hereby determine and report to the Congress that suspension for 6 months beyond August 1, 2006, of the right to bring an action under title III of the Act is necessary to the national interests of the United States and will expedite a transition to democracy in Cuba.

Sincerely,

GEORGE W. BUSH

# # #