Cuba hails economic highs

HAVANA — Cuban President Raul Castro has praised his country's economic achievements for the first six months of this year.

These were attributable to the arrival of more international visitors; record breaking outputs in oil and gas exploitation, an improved commercial account; increased export revenue and a successful energy-saving campaign, he told the 5th session of the 7th National Assembly on Sunday.

The president also announced several economic measures to help update Cuba's economic model, which has been badly affected by the US's embargo, the global economic crisis and a series of severe storms since 2008.

In addition, he revealed the latest Council of Ministers decision including expansion of the private economy and a reduction of the number of State employees.

Both would help bolster Cuba's socialist system, he said. Later, the National Assembly voted to create an additional province taking the total to 15. — VNA/VNS