CRI听力:U.S., Cuban Officials Holds Historic Talks

U.S. and Cuban officials have finished the first day of historic talks.

The first day of this high-level officials' meeting focused on issues on immigration, ranging from the security of charter flights that travel regularly between Miami and Havana to rooting out fraudulent passports, and working jointly on potential search-and-rescue missions.

However, the two sides seemed to clash over an immigration policy providing special migration privileges for Cuban citizens.

Josefina Vidal, Director of North American Affairs for Cuba's Foreign Ministry, criticised the so-called "Wet Foot, Dry Foot" policy, which usually shields Cubans from deportation if they reach US shores.

"The 'Wet Foot, Dry Foot' and the Cuban Adjustment Act is a policy that grants exclusive and unique treatment to Cuban citizens, that no other citizens from other nations receive. Therefore, we conclude that this is the fundamental issue that remains as an incentive for illegal immigration."

However, Edward Alex Lee, US Deputy Assistant Secretary for South America and Cuba, defended the policy.

"My government is completely committed to upholding the Cuban Adjustment Act that sets of migration-related policies that are colloquially known as 'Wet Foot, Dry Foot', very much remain in effect."

He also pressed the island nation to take back tens of thousands of its nationals whom US authorities want to deport.

The talks later today will be focusing on restoring diplomatic ties, including dealing with the mechanics of re-establishing a US Embassy in Havana, and a Cuban Embassy in Washington.