As Cuba and the United States head into the next round of talks aimed at reestablishing diplomatic ties, U. S. diplomats met with lawmakers to discuss the importance of ongoing talks. The fourth round will begin in Washington on May 21 and is to focus on the opening of embassies. U.S. Assistant Secretary of State Roberta Jacobson stressed that her country is anxious to be able to have contact with more people inside Cuba and operate in much the same way that the U.S. operates through its embassies in other countries. Cuban President Raul Castro welcomes the restoration of diplomatic relations but says that for normalization to occur, the blockade against Cuba must be lifted and Guantanamo must be returned. teleSUR
