Montevideo, July 25, (RHC), -- The resumption of diplomatic relations between Cuba and the United States opens the door to hemispheric ties based on respect for the autonomy and self-determination of peoples, the Parlasur, or Parliament of the Southern Common Market, said in a statement Friday.

The regional legislative body also welcomed the event as a new and positive step forward in relations between both nations.

We recognize the value, integrity and loyalty of the Cuban people over the years in defense of its sovereignty and its revolution, says the text, which also called to lift once and for all the terrible and illegal economic blockade imposed by Washington on Havana.

Likewise, Parlasur called for the reinstatement to Cuba of the US-occupied territory in the Guantanamo Bay.