Benefits seen for China from improvement in relations between Washington and Havana

US President Barack Obama will end decades of hostility and mistrust by visiting Havana in March, in a swan song gesture during the final year of his presidency. Observers said the move will also free Beijing to develop closer ties with Havana without hindrance from Washington.

"Next month, I'll travel to Cuba to advance our progress and efforts that can improve the lives of the Cuban people," Obama wrote on Twitter on Thursday.