U.S., Cuba meet over human rights issues

The United States and Cuba met here on Tuesday over human rights issues, with both sides voicing readiness to cover "a wide range of topics" in following " substantive" talks.

The State Department described the atmosphere of the meeting as "professional," saying U.S. and Cuban diplomatic delegations discussed the "methodology, topics and structure" of a future human rights dialogue.

"There was broad agreement on the way forward for a future substantive dialogue, the timing and location of which will be determined through diplomatic channels," the agency said in a statement.

"Each side raised concerns about human rights issues, and both sides expressed willingness to discuss a wide range of topics in future substantive talks," the department added.

Human rights remain one of the most delicate issues as Washington and Havana are seeking a normalized relationship. The two sides have held three rounds of talks since January over restoring diplomatic relations and reopening embassies.