Matanzas, November 16 (RHC)-- U.S. Democratic Representative Michael 'Mike' Doyle, from Pennsylvania, visited Matanzas province to explore opportunities for U.S.-Cuba exchanges in the academic, economic and sports areas.

At a recent meeting with Cuban lawmakers, the U.S. Democratic representative advocated a change in Washington's policy towards Cuba, particularly the elimination of travel restrictions and the lifting of the over 50 year-long blockade.

Congressman Mike Doyle pointed to President Barack Obama's commitment to advance bilateral ties and stressed that the vast majority of U.S. citizens favor normalized relations with Cuba.

At the meeting, Doyle and his accompanying delegation expressed their interest in boosting projects regarding direct flights between the two countries, academic exchanges between U.S. and Cuban universities, and exchanges between U.S. and Cuban heritage preservation experts.

After their meeting with authorities in Matanzas, the U.S. delegation, made up of some 20 business representatives from the areas of energy, transportation, industry, education and sports, visited several places of historical and cultural interest in the province.