The U.S. will allow Americans to send mobile phones to relatives in Cuba under a change in policy that President Bush announced on May 21.

The White House took note of the 106th anniversary of Cuban independence to call on the new government to fulfill promises of allowing more freedom in Cuba.

Bush was referring to recent announcements that Cubans will be allowed to buy sophisticated electronic equipment.

"Since Raul is allowing Cubans to own mobile phones for the first time, we're going to change our regulations to allow Americans to send mobile phones to family members in Cuba," stated the President.

"If Raul is serious about his so-called reforms, he will allow these phones to reach the Cuban people."

Bush's comments came as he marked for the first time what the White House calls "a day of solidarity with the Cuban people."

The President says he hopes it will be an annual event.