Obama Begins Visit to Cuba in New Era of Bilateral Relations

The President of the United States Barack Obama arrived today in Cuba for a historic three-day visit, the first one of a US leader to the island since 1928.

Upon his arrival at José Martí International Airport in the capital, the head of state was received under a light rain by Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez and other Cuban and US officials.

The American dignitary departed today along with his family from Andrews base, Maryland, and flew to Havana on the presidential plane Air Force One at 16:20 local time.

From the steps of the aircraft, Obama greeted those present at the airport with his wife, Michelle Obama, both sheltered under black umbrellas.

Obama is also accompanied by his two daughters Malia and Sasha; Secretary of State John Kerry; and Secretary of Commerce Penny Pritzker; and other officials, congressmen and businessmen.

Cuban Foreign Minister gave the first lady a bouquet of white roses, while her daughters received pink flowers.

This visit of the US president to the Caribbean nation is an important event within the process that began on December 17, 2014, when Presidents Obama and Raul Castro announced the decision to restore diplomatic relations after more than 50 years of tensions.

Both leaders held official meetings during the 7th Summit of the Americas in Panama and the United Nations headquarters, in April and September 2015 respectively.

The two countries resumed diplomatic relations on July 20, 2015 and turned into embassies the sections of interest operating in their respective capitals.