In a move that surprises no one, the Cuban National Assembly officially named Raul Castro, younger brother of Fidel and acting president for the past year and a half, as president of Cuba yesterday.

“We have to make our government more efficient,” he said in the speech after being unanimously elected by Cuban lawmakers to succeed his elder brother Fidel as the country’s leader.

He also said the government will focus on satisfying citizens’ basic needs “both spiritual and material, starting by boosting sustained economic growth.”

Hard Rock Cafe Havana here we come.

Cuba’s new leader promises change to make Cuba stronger [Xinhuanet]