(14 Dec 2000) Natural Sound
The first visit to Cuba by a Russian President since the collapse of the Soviet Union entered its first full day on Thursday in Havana with a schedule of talks and official ceremony.
Putin arrived in Havana late on Wednesday for a two-day state visit aimed at reviving historic ties between the two former Cold War allies.
On Thursday, he joined President Fidel Castro in saluting the Cuban flag in Revolution Palace.
Putin, in a dark suit and tie, and Castro, in his customary olive green uniform and cap, then stood to attention as a Cuban military band played the national anthems of both countries outside the Palace of the Revolution.
Both leaders then paused for an official photo.
The two presidents appeared to be chatting amiably through an interpreter.
After greeting a Russian delegation and members of Cuba's top leadership, the two presidents held formal talks inside the palace and signed a series of accords.
Six documents were prepared for the trip, including agreements on cooperation in legal affairs and health.
Apparently not wanting to interrupt Putin's visit with a public statement on the new American president, Castro's government made no immediate comment on George W. Bush's victory late Wednesday night.
But a press conference was scheduled after the two leaders signed documents of cooperation, and questions are expected to be put to Putin.
Castro has long said he didn't expect any changes under Bush or Vice President Al Gore, but the vice president was largely seen as the lesser of two evils.
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