Montevideo - The resumption of diplomatic relations between Cuba and the United States opens the door to hemispheric ties based on respect for the autonomy and self-determination of peoples, said today Parlasur.

A statement from the Presidency of the Parliament of the Southern Common Market (Parlasur, in Spanish), signed by the holder Saul Ortega, welcomes this event, which marks a new and positive step forward in relations between these two nations.

We recognize the value, integrity and loyalty of the Cuban people over the years in defense of its sovereignty and its revolution, says the text. It also calls for 'get up once and for all the terrible, soulless and illegal blockade that for more than half a century has sought to subdue the Cuban people'.

Over decades, Washington used all possible resources to overthrow the Cuban government through economic sanctions still in force, political,diplomatic and media war against the brave Cuban people the note recalls.

Parlasur also calls to reinstate to Cuba the territory occupied in the Guantanamo Bay Naval Base against its will.