BRASILIA — Raul Castro has begun a gradual process of changing Cuba's economy and international relations. Within Cuba, he hopes to legitimize his government by improving standards of living. Outside of Cuba, he does not want to be held captive by Cuba's one international supporter: Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez.
Castro believes in giving farm workers greater incentives. He has authorized the sale of farm machinery and tools — centralized until now — directly to farmers, as well as handing over idle land to private cooperatives and other organizations that request them. He also canceled the debts of some small producers and raised the prices paid by the state for milk and meat.
In another measure intended to improve the lives of ordinary Cubans, he has removed restrictions on acquiring computers, microwave ovens and other appliances. Cuban officials stress that the purpose of these changes is to increase efficiency, "not alter the socialist model."