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U.S. president Barack Obama is paying an historic visit in Cuba. This opens a new chapter in U.S. relations with its neighbor after decades of Cold War-era animosity. Obama has met with Cuban leader Raul Castro.

The American national anthem playing out over Havana’s Revolution square, the center of power in Cuba. And with Che Guevarra looking on, Obama paid tribute to Jose Marti, the hero of Cuba’s independence war against Spain.

Then came the long awaiting meeting with Cuban President Raul Castro, a critical moment that could determine how much further this new relationship can progress.

After half a century of hostilities, there are many unresolved differences on both sides. Many wondered if this end up as a tense encounter. The body language suggested otherwise.

Their discussions lasted for more than an hour. Afterward, both leaders spoke to the press. Both addressed the profound differences that remain over issues from human rights to the U.S. trade embargo. But both agreed that engagement was the best way forward.

“I guess ultimately what this comes down to is that I have faith in people,” Obama said.

“I think that if you meet Cubans here and Cubans meet Americans, and they are meeting and talking and interacting and doing business together and going to school together and learning from each other, then they will recognize people are people. And in that context I believe that change will occur.”

US President Barack Obama was received by Cuban President Raul Castro in Havana on Monday at the start of historic talks where the US leader will press his counterpart for economic and democratic reforms while hearing complaints about US sanctions.

US President Barack Obama was received by Cuban President Raul Castro in Havana on Monday at the start of historic talks where the US leader will press his counterpart for economic and democratic reforms while hearing complaints about US sanctions.