Barack Obama meets Raul Castro in historic Cuba trip
Brushing off decades of distrust, US president Barack Obama and Cuban president Raul Castro shook hands today in Havana's Palace of the Revolution.
The meeting is aimed at advancing the diplomatic opening that both leaders have pursued.
The pair stood together as a Cuban military band played the national anthems of Cuba and the United States - stunning sounds in a country where resistance to the US has been part of the government's national mission for decades.
Mr Obama and top US officials warmly greeted their Cuban counterparts before the two presidents sat down for their meeting.
Mr Obama opened his first full day in Cuba by adjusting a wreath at the memorial to Jose Marti, where a 59ft statue pays tribute to the Cuban independence hero and writer.
He then entered the Palace of the Revolution and where he was met by Mr Castro before the two inspected a military honour guard.
Mr Obama also planned an event today with US and Cuban entrepreneurs aimed at championing Cuba's fledgling private sector.
He was to be feted in the evening at a state dinner, an honour illustrating just how far the US and Cuba have come despite their deep ideological differences.
