Kerry: We Are Taking A New Direction In Cuba

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HAVANA (CBSMiami) -- Secretary of State John Kerry, standing alongside Cuba's foreign minister reiterated the two nations' commitment to normalizing relations.

Kerry and Bruno Rodriguez Parilla met after the historic flag raising ceremony Friday morning and then spoke to the media around 1 p.m. at the historic Hotel Nacional De Cuba.

Before Kerry spoke, Rodriguez Parilla addressed the crowd, first in Spanish then in English, saying Cuba is open to increased cooperation with the United States but have some concerns.

WebExtra: U.S. Sec. John Kerry & Cuban Foreign Minister Speech

"We are open to discussion and conversations, accepting that some of these issues will be difficult but I want to emphasize that Cuba is proud of this moment and we respect Cuban rights, civil liberties for each Cuban and every citizen of this planet. It's true that we also have concerns about things in the United States. Cuba is also interested in human rights," said  Rodriguez Parilla.

The foreign minister went on to clarify the type of relationship the Cuban government wants with the U.S.

"Our government is willing to normalize relations with the United States on the basis of respect and equality...without any interference in our internal affairs," said Rodriguez Parilla.

Related: Local GOP Leaders Slam US Flag Raising In Havana

Shortly after that, Kerry had some kind words about the meeting between the two.

"I think the meeting we just had underscored this historic moment because it was extremely cooperative and conductive,"  said Kerry.

He mentioned some of the key issues on the table including human rights, the environment, counter narcotics and maritime safety.

As he mentioned in the flag raising, Kerry said normalization between the U.S. and Cuba is also meant to help the Cuban people.

"We believe that normalization will allow the Cuban people to improve their standards of living, and their lives," said Kerry.

As for a time frame on when relations will possibly be fully normalized, Kerry said "The sooner we can get to our normalization, the better."

But what about the future relations with Cuba, not under the Obama administration?

To that Kerry pointed out when it comes to normalized relations with Cuba, "I can't imagine another president, Republican or Democrat, just throwing it out the window."

CBS4's Rick Folbaum is in Cuba has continuing coverage.

Click here for more on Cuba.