September 18, 2015 - 2:16 PM
WASHINGTON - President Barack Obama and Cuban President Raul Castro have spoken by phone about progress normalizing relations between their countries.
The rare phone call comes ahead of Pope Francis' visit to the U.S. and Cuba. Francis played a key role in the secret talks that led to a thaw in relations between the Cold War foes.
The White House says Obama and Castro discussed the recent opening of embassies in Washington and Havana. The White House says they also spoke candidly about the differences they continue to have on "important issues" and ways to address those differences.
Francis is due to arrive in Cuba Saturday. He'll then travel to the U.S. for a multi-city visit, including a White House meeting with Obama.
News from © The Associated Press, 2015