Messersmith, G.S., Havana. To Sumner Welles, Washington.
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University of Delaware Library, Museums and Press
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Cuba asking immediate increase of 500,000 tons in sugar quota; sugar still Cuba's mainstay and with loss of foreign markets, it is vital to her economy that U.S. allow increase; may involve some risk, but believes U.S. should take immediate action; [Jose Manuel] Cortina emphasized urgency because grinding season near; Cortina hopes U.S. will do something to strengthen prestige of Cuban Government; he realizes Batista's weaknesses but has confidence in his good intentions; with respect to loan, Cortina reported that Cuban delegation in Washington would be called home, but would return; he indicated that by next week he would have counter proposals to make; Communists making trouble in Cuba; at recent Cabinet meeting question arose of appointing to a certain office a man known to be a Communist; Batista in favor, but Cortina, supported by other Cabinet members protested; Batista has no sympathy for Communists, but had made some campaign promises which he is now unable to fulfill.