President Barack Obama on Tuesday acknowledged the difficult history between the US and Cuba, but offered a “message of peace” to the Cuban people as he neared the end of a landmark visit to the communist country.
Speaking at the Gran Teatro de Havana, he said it is time for the US and Cuba to move beyond their differences and toward a future that will help both nations. The gathering included Cuban President Raul Castro and other officials and civil leaders. Also present were members of Obama’s government and US lawmakers.
“I have come here to extend a hand of friendship to the Cuban people,”Obama said. “It is time for us to leave the past behind. It won’t be easy and there will be setbacks and it will take time.”
Obama expressed hope for future relations between the United States and Cuba and their peoples.
