Expectations high in Havana ahead of Rolling Stones concert: UK ambassador

The free Rolling Stones concert in Havana on March 25 will be "a historic, world-class event", said British Ambassador to Cuba Tim Cole, according to Cuban official daily Granma.

The idea started in 2015 when Mick Jagger, lead vocalist and co-founder of the English rock band, visited Havana with his son, said Cole, who received them both in his residence. After the trip, Jagger said he loved the Cuban capital and thoroughly enjoyed the experience.

"I know that all Cubans have great expectations for this concert. It will be huge. As ambassador, I am very satisfied to be able to witness this event," said Cole, who was instrumental in organizing this concert.

"This is the best example of the cultural links between the two peoples and will show that respect, admiration and passion will always exist between the UK and Cuba," he said, adding that in recent years, there has been a greater promotion of British culture and music in Cuba."

The ambassador said he was surprised at the enthusiasm the Cubans had shown for British music, including the Beatles, as he had visited a bar dedicated to this group in the town of Bayamo and Lennon Park in Havana.

According to him, the British musicians are eager to learn about Cuban culture and that his embassy is focusing on showcasing British culture in Cuba and vice versa. Enditem