Washington, February 20 (RHC) -– Amid bilateral efforts to re-establish diplomatic relations between Cuba and the United States, Americans now view Cuba more favorably than they have in nearly 20 years.

According to a recent Gallup poll, forty-six percent say they have a favorable opinion of Cuba, up eight percentage points from last year, and a far cry from the 10% favorable rating in 1996.

The percentage of Americans viewing Cuba favorably has been mostly in the 20% to 30% range since 1996. This survey is the first time Gallup has asked Americans for their opinion of Cuba since Obama announced in December that he is working to re-establish diplomatic ties with Havana.