US, Cuba conclude talks on diplomatic ties, with remaining differences

Barack Obama and Raul Castro shake hands Photo: GETTY IMAGES

The United States and Cuba on Thursday ended the historic talks on restoring diplomatic relations, but both sides admitted "profound differences" still remain and much needs to be done before normalization of bilateral relations.

It was the second day of the first high-level meeting held between Cuba and the United States since the surprising announcement on Dec. 17 by President Barack Obama and Cuban leader Raul Castro about restoring the bilateral diplomatic ties broken off in January 1961.