Beijing, Mar 21 (RHC-PL) The Government of China today welcomed the visit of US President Barack Obama to Cuba, and asked the US administration to lift the economic, political and commercial blockade, which has been imposed on Cuba for decades.

During a press conference, the spokeswoman for the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Hua Chunying, hoped that Havana and Washington would take this opportunity to consolidate what she called a 'good moment' in their bilateral ties.

Similarly, Hua denied that this rapprochement will affect China's ties with Latin America.

"The United States has imposed a blockade on Cuba for over 50 years and relations are currently improving; both countries and the entire region are interested in this," said the spokeswoman, adding that “Beijing and Havana will continue to strengthen their friendship, because their ties do not depend on third parties.”