Raul Castro to hand over a different Cuba

His reforms led to renewed ties with US after decades of acrimony

After 12 years in power, Cuban President Raul Castro will hand over a different Cuba to his successor, who was to be elected by a legislative session that began on Wednesday.

In 2006, when he assumed presidency, at first as a temporary replacement for his ailing brother Fidel Castro, the world was surprised by his powerful voice, determination and firmness.