It has been nearly 90 years since a U.S. President has stepped foot in Cuba. Today, President Obama changed that, meeting with Cuban President Raul Castro.
The two leaders are scheduled to meet later on Monday to talk about trade. They will hold a joint press conference.
In a speech at the Embassy, President Obama said, "You've had to stand up America's newest embassy, you've helped support high-profile visitors from across the administration, and the business community, and now me and Michelle. And I know your workload is a lot heavier than it was, but I want you to know everything we've accomplished so far — more Americans coming to Cuba, more engagement with the Cuban people, civil society, faith groups, entrepreneurs, students, young people, more opportunities for the Cuban people to improve their lives — it's all happening because of you. Every single day, you're bringing the Cuban people and the American people closer together."
The President added that he hopes in the future, young American children and young Cuban children will "think it's natural that a U.S. President should be visiting Cuba, they think it's natural that the two peoples are working together. Their future is what we work for so hard, and I'm so grateful to all of you for making it happen."
