In a letter sent to key members of Congress, Bush said extending the suspension is "necessary to the national interests of the United States and will expedite a transition to democracy in Cuba."
The legislation that provides for suing foreign firms is part of the Helms-Burton Act, passed in 1996 after Cuban MiG fighters shot down two small planes flown by Miami-based Cuban exiles.
Extending the suspension allows the United States to avoid potential disputes with European Union nations whose firms have investments in Cuba.
National Security Council spokesman Sean McCormack said the Bush administration is working with its friends and allies around the world to achieve the ultimate goal of a peaceful transition to democracy in Cuba.
Bush first extended the provision last July, following the lead of former President Bill Clinton, who issued six-month suspensions of the controversial provisions 10 times in a row.
===== Kevin Dean Buffalo, NY ICQ: 8616001 http://www.yaysoft.com
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