President Obama and Raul Castro have held the first talks between the leaders of US and Cuba in more than half a century, in the latest effort towards bringing an end to more than fifty years of hostility between the two countries.
The pair met on the sidelines of the Summit of the Americas in Panama - after making speeches in front of 30 regional leaders.
CNN reports that that Obama's aides believe the meeting is the highest levels talks between the two countries since Vice President Richard Nixon met with Fidel Castro in 1959.
President Obama and President Castro briefly met at the opening ceremony yesterday, where they shook hands.
Speaking at the summit yesterday, Mr Obama said "I’m pleased to have Cuba represented with us at this summit for the very first time" - a comment that was met with applause from the audience.
"As the United States begins a new chapter in our relationship with Cuba, we hope it will create an environment that improves the lives of the Cuban people - not because it’s imposed by us, the United States, but through the talent and ingenuity and aspirations, and the conversation among Cubans from all walks of life so they can decide what the best course is for their prosperity," he added.
In President Castro's speech today, the Cuban leader criticised many of the US actions against Cuba over the last half century. However he then told delegates, "in my opinion, President Obama is an honest man," and said that the current US president is not to blame for past grievances.
Four months ago Mr Castro and Mr Obama simultaneously announced an ending of hostilities.
President Obama said starkly: "Fifty years of isolation hasn't worked."
It is expected that Cuba will be taken off America's designated list of state sponsors of terrorism.
The rapprochement will also open the door towards loans and aid for Cuba after decades of a crippling trade embargo.
Fidel Castro came to power in 1959 after overthrowing the US-backed dictator Fulgencio Batista.
In 2006 after abdominal surgery he started the transfer of power to his brother Raul who took the landmark step in 2014 of appearing with the US President.
Removing Cuba from the terror list will be a major step if ties really are to be rebuilt between the US and Cuba, an historic moment after 50 years which has seen America try to isolate Cuba and finally acknowledge it as a neighbour.
Originally posted at 7.28am
