
'What's up Cuba?' U.S. President Barack Obama becomes first President to visit Cuba in 90 years
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For the first time in nine decades, a United States President has stepped foot on Cuban territory.
Highlights
CALIFORNIA NETWORK (https://www.youtube.com/c/californianetwork)
3/21/2016 (9 years ago)
Published in Politics & Policy
Keywords: Obama, Cuba, Old Havana, Raul Castro, change
LOS ANGELES, CA (Catholic Online) - The Obama family arrived in Cuba on Sunday to kick start the first of a three-day tour.
The Obamas were met by Cuba's foreign minister, rather than Raul Castro, beneath a sheath of rain. Regardless of the weather, President Obama Tweeted, "ÂżQue bola Cuba? (What's up Cuba?). Just touched down here, looking forward to meeting and hearing directly from the Cuban people."
In an exclusive interview with ABC on Sunday, Obama stated "change is going to happen" in Cuba."The time is right," he continued. "Obviously our intention has always been to get a ball rolling, knowing that change wasn't going to happen overnight. ... We felt that coming now would maximize our ability to prompt more change.
"... And it gives us, I think, the opportunity before I leave office to continue to stay on track in moving things forward. Change is going to happen and I think that Raul Castro understands that."
Once in Cuba, the Obamas were immediately taken to the Melia Habana hotel to meet the U.S. embassy staff, where he told the members: "This is a historic visit and a historic opportunity. I want you to know, every[thing] we've accomplished so far, it's all happening because of you. Every day you're bringing the US and Cuba closer together."
After the small speech, the Obamas toured Old Havana despite the rain. Hundreds called to the President and broke out in applause as the Presidential couple made their way down the cobblestoned street.After enjoying a quick dinner at a privately-owned restaurant in town, the Obamas went to the ambassador's home, where they will remain for the duration of their visit.
During his stay, President Obama plans to talk about the oppressive government, speak to Castro and deliver a televised speech from the Gran Teatro Alicia Alonso, Havana's national theater.
The Obamas will be engaging in a "cultural outreach" during their stay, which will include visits to specific meaningful locations that the Cuban population would appreciate, the President will honor Cuban revolutionary and hero Jose Marti, will stand for human rights and is expected to deliver a statement after his meeting with Castro.
There will also be a State dinner at the Palace of the Revolution on Monday, where the Obamas will be "participating."
While Obama is busy with Castro, the First Lady and her daughters will be meeting Cuban students. Some of the students were participants in her Let Girls Learn Initiative, which was created to help young girls get the education they deserve.
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