Diaz-Canel is Cuba's new president as Castro steps aside

Miguel Diaz-Canel was formally named Cuba's new president today, succeeding Raul Castro, state media said -- a historic handover ending six decades of rule by the Castro brothers.

The 57-year-old Diaz-Canel, who was the only candidate for the presidency, was elected to a five-year term with 603 out of 604 possible votes in the National Assembly, the official Cubadebate website said.