Colorado congressman in Cuba with Obama hopes for trade ties

A Colorado congressman in Cuba with President Barack Obama is looking forward to trade ties between his state and the island nation.

In a call from Havana Tuesday, U.S. Rep. Ed Perlmutter acknowledged decades of differences over human rights and political and economic policy won’t be resolved quickly. The Democrat finds reason for hope in the opening of communications symbolized by Obama’s historic visit.

Denver-based Frontier Airlines announced earlier this month it had applied for permission to begin service to Cuba, including a Denver-Havana flight. United, the main carrier at Denver International Airport, also has requested permission to fly to Havana, though not from Denver.

Perlmutter is among several members of Congress and business leaders who accompanied Obama on a trip that started Sunday and ends Tuesday.