Washington, February 24 (RHC)-- U.S. President Barack Obama has extended for another year the State of National Emergency, declared by former President Bill Clinton against Cuba.

Former President Clinton adopted the punitive measure in 1996, in the wake of the downing by Cuban Migs of two Cessna aircraft, belonging to the Miami-based terrorist organization 'Brothers to the Rescue' after they repeatedly violated Cuban airspace.

President Barack Obama's move gives continuity to the anti-Cuba policy under which a security zone in the waters around Cuba was also set up, closing it to unauthorized sea and air traffic, while authorizing the U.S. Coast Guard to board and search any ship they deem is violating blockade regulations.