1. LaToya Cantrell, New Orleans Mayor arriving and shaking hands with Tatiana Vera (green dress), Vice President of the Provincial Assembly
2. Cantrell entering room
3. Cantrell talking to media
4. SOUNDBITE (English) LaToya Cantrell, New Orleans Mayor:
"This delegation here but it is a symbol and a sign that there is a real benefit to not only Cuba but to the people of the United States and more importantly to the city of New Orleans. We are New Orleans because of the root partnership that we have experienced for over 300 years. We understand that, it's a value and we want to cultivate that relationship."
5. Various Cantrell and Vera meeting with official delegations
The Mayor of New Orleans, LaToya Cantrell, met on Thursday with the Vice President of the Provincial Assembly of Havana, during a week-long trip to Cuba.
The visit has has been criticized for its secrecy.
Cantrell addressing media, praised how Cuban history had generated unique opportunities and challenges in the field of economic development, trade, public health and education.
She said the US delegation in Cuba was a sign that improved US-Cuban relations had a benefit to both countries.
"We want to cultivate that relationship," Cantrell said.
Cuba and the United States resumed their diplomatic relations in 2014 under the administration of Barack Obama, but under the administration of Donald Trump, ties have stalled.
In addition to immigration restrictions and the reinstatement of the embargo, the Trump administration increased the requirements for Americans to travel to Cuba and accused the island of sonic attacks on its diplomats.
