Alan Gross, released from Cuban prison, invited to Obama's appeal

Alan Gross, whose release from the Cuban prison helped pave the way for the restoration of diplomatic relations with Havana, received an invitation from the White House to listen to the appeal “On the situation in the country”, with which President Barack Obama will speak on Tuesday.

Gross and his wife Judy reunited last year after Pope Francis played an important role in freeing the American in an exchange of prisoners.

Later, Obama called the historical exchange a catalyst that led to a change in the US position on Cuba and a way out of the 50-year impasse in which both countries were located.

The White House announced Monday that Gross and his wife will be among more than 20 other guests who will sit alongside First Lady Michelle Obama, Vice Presidential wife Jill Biden and presidential adviser Valerie Jarrett when the president reads his annual address at the Capitol in Tuesday evening, writes Voice of America.