Talk politics.

So Obama is reaching out to Latin American countries instead of taking the arguably tough stance of the Bush era.

"I think it was a good moment," Chavez said about their initial encounter. "I think President Obama is an intelligent man, compared to the previous U.S. president."

Associated Press

Score one for Chavez. I don't like the man but he cracks me up at times.

Anyway, Obama's policy may have historic ramifications on our relationship with Cuba. It was a brilliant move to ease travel restrictions and then tell Raul Castro "It's your move."

For the first time since the Eisenhower era has Cuba offered to negotiate on this scale. They have offered to put "everything" on the table, including human rights and political prisoners. Here's something I never thought I'd hear from Cuba:

"We could be wrong, we admit it. We're human beings," Castro said. "We're willing to sit down to talk as it should be done, whenever." Wow.

Obama wisely countered that while he welcomed the overtures, words aren't enough. He added that he was hoped Castro would offer action in return for the US gesture, such as the release of political prisoners.

So far so good. Making the first move, reaching out with respect but seeking action and not just words. If Obama can bring a thaw in our relationships with Cuba that would be a major accomplishment that no other President has managed in almost 50 years of hostility. There are still many things that can go wrong, but I think Obama's handling this brilliantly so far.

I don't smoke but if we normalize relationships and end the embargo I'm buying me a box of Cuban cigars (if I can afford them, hopefully the price will drop with the embargo lifted). Anyone in the New York area would be welcome to join me in my microscopic apartment in New York to celebrate. :P