Cuba leader makes cautious speech

Raul Castro, Cuba’s president, has made a keynote speech as part of celebrations to mark 55 years since the communist government took power in the country.

But Castro did not unveil any dramatic economic and social policy measures in his televised address on Saturday to mark Revolution Day.

"Despite some expectations from people, Castro did not mention reforms," Rachel Levin, Al Jazeera's correspondent in Havana, said.

"He did acknowledge that some Cubans are going through some serious economic hardship but he said that the Cuban government is really doing all it can and that the country can only really spend what it makes."

Thousands of people filled the streets of Santiago de Cuba, the birthplace of the Cuban revolution where Raul Castro made his address, to mark the anniversary events.

Patience sought

Castro has already implemented a raft of changes since his brother Fidel stepped down in February, after nearly 55 years as president.

Raul Castro, 77, told the Cuban parliament on July 11 that he would examine social and economic issues in his Revolution Day address.

But Levin said that Castro simply called on Cubans to be patient in Saturday's address.

"He sent a message that people need to tighten their belts but also that efficiency in the country needs to improve," she said.