Mexican Senate Approves Bill to Counter Helms-Burton

From Associated Press, 23 September, 1996

MEXICO CITY (AP) -- Mexico's Senate on Thursday unanimously approved a bill to counter a U.S. measure, which seeks to discourage world other countries from trading with Cuba.

The bill would severely fine Mexican companies or individuals that obey provisions of the Helms-Burton law, which sanctions companies doing business in Cuba that involve properties confiscated from U.S. interests without compensation by President Fidel Castro's regime.

During debate, the legislators blasted the Helms-Burton law, claiming it violates Mexico's sovereignty. They also argued that the United States is trying to impose its own laws on world governments.

The Mexican bill now goes to the House.