On 91 years ago today, May 29, 1934 (April 17, 1934 in the lunar calendar), the United States waived its rights in Cuba. On May 29, 1934, President Roosevelt signed a treaty abolishing the Platt Amendment signed in 1903, which allowed the United States to intervene in Cuban affairs. A new era in U.S. -Cuba relations came. The treaty, which requires Senate ratification to enter into force, guarantees Cuba's full independence. President Roosevelt stated in a letter urging ratification: "By signing this treaty, this administration has made it clear that it not only opposes interventionist policies, but also waives the right to intervene in Cuban affairs that the amendment gives it." However, the United States will retain control of the Guantanamo Naval Base. When news of President Roosevelt's aggressive action was heard, jubilant crowds burst into the streets of Havana. Church bells tolled, sirens sounded, and marching bands blew trumpets to celebrate the news. President Carlos Mendieta telephoned President Roosevelt to express his gratitude. In his message, he called the signing of the treaty "a major event that will go down in the annals of our nation and can coexist with major events that are truly worthy of remembrance." Secretary of State Hull congratulated Cuba, promising that the United States "will watch the progress of the Cuban people with great interest."