Havana, January 28 (RHC) -– Cuban President Raul Castro, in remarks before regional heads of state and government, reiterated Cuba's demand for the lifting of the economic blockade imposed by the United States against Havana.

The president spoke at the opening session today of the 3rd Summit of the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC), which runs until tomorrow in the Costa Rican capital of San José.

The Cuban leader warned that Cuba will not make any political concessions as part of the ongoing process of normalization of diplomatic relations with the U.S. government.

“The United States has acknowledged the failure of its policy towards Cuba and the decision by President Barack Obama to normalize relations with Havana is a triumph for the Cuban people,” added Raul Castro during his half hour speech.

Moreover, Raul Castro stressed that Cuba, under no circumstances, will renounce any of its principles.