Between February 20 and 23, Kerri Hannan, the U.S. Deputy Assistant Secretary for Public Diplomacy, Policy, Planning and Coordination of the Office of Western Hemisphere Affairs, visited Cuba and “met with civil society and emphasized the United States’ support for human rights.”
‘She met with independent Cuban businessmen to learn about the challenges they face and demonstrate the United States’ continued support for the Cuban people and the Cuban private sector. She also met with Cuban government officials and insisted on the release of political prisoners.” [1]
This visit “prioritized interactions with marginalized communities, including Afro-Cubans and human rights activists. By amplifying [their] voices and defending [their] rights, she reaffirmed America’s commitment to upholding the universal principles of dignity and equality.”
In addition, by “meeting with independent Cuban business owners, Deputy Undersecretary Hannan learned firsthand how they provide food, supplies, employment and economic opportunities to the Cuban people. She explored with them how the U.S. government can boost Cuba’s independent private sector with exchanges and other aid.”
Hannan is a career member of the Senior Foreign Service and also covers issues related to the People’s Republic of China for the Bureau of Western Hemisphere Affairs. Previously she had posts in Luxembourg, Bolivia, Argentina and India, as well as Spokesperson at the U.S. Embassy in Kabul. She has an undergraduate degree in zoology and a master’s degree in Latin American Studies with a concentration in Tropical Conservation and Development from the University of Florida.[2]
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[1] U.S. Embassy in Havana, Deputy Undersecretary Kerri S. Hannan Visits Havana (Feb. 23, 2024); US Undersecretary Kerri Hannan exchanges with Cuban authorities and private businessmen, Diario de Cuba (Feb. 26, 2024).
[2] U.S. State Dep’t, Biography: Kerri Hannan.
