Write a new simple attractive title based on the title from Editorial: Better relations with Cuba could create opportunities for many interests in Valley and dont use quote marks

President Donald Trump has hinted at the possibility of talking with Cuban officials about easing punitive measures and establishing avenues for travel and trade.

As a growing economic entity just a short hop across the Gulf of Mexico, the Rio Grande Valley could be in a position to take advantage of any thaw in the decades-long freeze in interactions between our two countries.

Valley officials should monitor any developments and look for opportunities that could benefit this region, at both the supply and receiving end of the economic spectrum.

Trump has suggested creating links that would increase U.S. influence in Cuba after decades of estrangement, and enable expatriates living in this country return to their home country, whether to visit, live or do business.

Valley business and political officials recognized the possibilities presented by such a thaw a decade ago, when then-President Barack Obama sought to normalize relations with Cuba and end the trade embargo the U.S. has held against the country since 1962.

In response to Obama’s efforts, Gov. Greg Abbott organized a diplomatic and trade mission to Cuba in December 2015 that included Valley economic development officials.

Certainly, those opportunities still exist.

Perhaps the most obvious is in the agricultural sector. The proximity of Valley growers to local ports means they can ship produce to the island country quickly, without the overland transport that would delay such deliveries from other U.S. agricultural centers. Those ports also would be practical means to ship beef and other meat products from southeast Texas ranchers.

Certainly, Mexico is sure to make similar moves to establish trade routes to Cuba if the embargo is lifted. Border entities could work with them to utilize our maquiladoras to help address the country’s legendary lack of automobiles and parts.

Tourism also could be a major boon for both countries. We can expect Cuban entrepreneurs to attract visitors by rebuilding at least some of the legendary Havana nightspots and establish resorts along the country’s beaches. Many South Texas residents likely would enjoy a trip across the gulf to visit such establishments, and the common use of Spanish in the Valley makes travel between South Texas and Cuba a reasonable option for many.

To be sure, whether or not our two countries become friendlier neighbors remains to be seen. Obama’s efforts were stymied largely by Republicans who opposed Cuba’s embrace of communism and alliance with the Soviet bloc.

That bloc collapsed in 1991, more than 30 years ago, and Trump heads their own party, which could soften opposition to a new relationship between our two countries. Trump has long touted the national security benefits of maintaining a strong level of influence near our shores, and efforts to build an alliance with Cuba would do much to strengthen the security of our own country.

Uncertainty at this point should not deter Valley officials from recognizing the opportunities that improved relations with Cuba offers to our region. They should be ready to take advantage of any developments that might occur.