Obama says Juanes Havana concert doesn’t hurt, but carries no US stamp of approval

Obama: Cuban mega-concert doesn’t hurt US outreach

WASHINGTON — President Barack Obama says cultural diplomacy with Cuba can be helpful to a point.

But he says the effect of performances such as the concert set for Sunday in Havana by Colombian singer Juanes should not be overstated.

Obama tells Univision’s “Al Punto” show that Juanes’ concert carries no U.S. stamp of approval.

The pop singer met with Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton ahead of the concert, which was to take place under a huge image of revolutionary leader Che Guevara.

Obama says the United States is not a concert promoter.

He also says he hopes Cuba’s communist government will respond to his overtures, such as opening up some travel restrictions.

THIS IS A BREAKING NEWS UPDATE. Check back soon for further information. AP’s earlier story is below.

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Barack Obama says cultural diplomacy with Cuba can be helpful to a point.

But he says the effect of performances such as the concert set for Sunday in Havana by Colombian singer Juanes should not be overstated.

Obama tells Univision’s “Al Punto” show that Juanes’ concert carries no U.S. stamp of approval.

The pop singer met with Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton ahead of the concert, which was to take place under a huge banner of revolutionary leader Che Guevara.

Obama says the United States is not a concert promoter.

He also says he hopes Cuba’s communist government will respond to his overtures, such as opening up some travel restrictions.