CUBA-RAUL CASTRO-FILES

TO GO WITH AFP STORY - Cuban interim leader and Defence Minister Raul Castro, beside Fidel Castro's empty seat, takes part in the Cuba's National Assembly key annual session, 22 December 2006. Six months after President Fidel Castro handed power to his brother Raul, Cubans are coming to appreciate a different, more pragmatic style of leadership, even though the siblings have stood side-by-side since the 1959 revolution. For one, the acting president has made it clear the era of marathon speeches that were a trademark of the older and ailing Castro is now over. Raul Castro also told Cubans he welcomed criticism and different points of view. AFP PHOTO/Adalberto ROQUE