Cuban President Raul Castro says the country must become more productive . But the degree of change remains uncertain , as does the possibility that `` even from the shadow Fidel will try to discourage reforms , '' he said , adding `` the prognosis , nonetheless , is hopeful . '' Cuba has been under U.S. economic sanctions since 1959 and is not allowed to trade with other countries or conduct international financial transactions without permission from Washington. Expectations rise as a new president leads Cuba for the first time in 49 years . Rare public displays of discontent show frustrations faced by Cubans .
Cuban President Raul Castro says the country must become more productive . Cuba has been under U.S. economic sanctions since 1959 and is not allowed to trade with other countries or conduct international financial transactions without permission from Washington. Expectations rise as a new president leads Cuba for the first time in 49 years . Rare public displays of discontent show frustrations faced by Cubans .