Citing a five-decade policy "that was not working,” US President Barack Obama called on congress to lift the blockade of Cuba as part of steps toward the normalization of relations between the two countries. Another pending issue is the closure of the U.S. naval base at Guantanamo Bay, a move also recommended by Obama. On both fronts Obama faces stiff opposition from Republicans. The two countries are slated to re-open embassies on July 20. Bianca Perez reports from Washington. teleSUR
