IN BRIEF (Page 8)

Cuba

Castro reasserts socialist ideals

President Raul Castro stressed on Thursday the country will remain essentially socialist after the parliament approved a reform plan to allow private companies to develop business in the country. Cuba's National Assembly met and analyzed the progress of economic and social reforms started in 2010 as well as the nation's development plan until 2030. He also warned against the concentration of property and wealth even if private workers or small businesses are legal in the country.