"Musical diplomacy"

The visit of the New York Philharmonic to North Korea has been noticed in Cuba. Miriam Leiva, a former Cuban diplomat and leader of the Damas de Blanco, wonders in an essay (pdf) why Washington “is not capable of an intelligent policy” toward Cuba. She notes the affinities and affection between Cubans and Americans, and says U.S. restrictions “are eliminating an injection of friendship, experiences, and democracy.”