HAVANA (Sputnik) — On Friday, Kerry arrived to Havana to participate in the US embassy reopening ceremony that marked the normalization of relations between the two countries announced by US President Barack Obama in December 2014.
"Notwithstanding President Obama’s new policy, the overall US embargo remains in place and can only be lifted by congressional action, a step that we strongly favor," Kerry said.
US-Cuba diplomatic relations were officially restored on July 20 when the two countries officially reopened their embassies in Havana and Washington, DC respectively.
The relations between the United States and Cuba should turn toward more effective cooperation, Kerry said.
"The time has come for us [United States, Cuba] to move in a more promising direction," Kerry said.
During the ceremony, Kerry praised President Obama and Cuban President Raul Castro for having the courage to bring the two nations together despite considerable opposition.
"The time is now to reach out to one another as two peoples who are no longer enemies or rivals, but neighbors," Kerry added. "Time to unfurl our flags, raise them up and let the world know that we wish each other well."
The United States has no intention to change immigration policy as the part of normalization of relations with Cuba, the US top diplomat said.
"We currently have no plans whatsoever to alter the current migration policy, including the Cuban Adjustment Act," Kerry said, referring to an immigration program for Cubans that provides exceptions for their coming and staying in the United States.
Special provisions in US immigration law allow easier access for Cubans to remain in the United States and obtain a permanent residency card.
