Ahead of the historic reopening of the U.S. Embassy in Cuba, former Cuban leader, Fidel Castro, has published an open letter to the nation in which he criticises American foreign and economic policies since World War Two.

The letter was published to mark Mr Castro’s 89th birthday.

He also accused the U.S. of owing Cuba millions of dollars.

The former leader said that the US owes Cuba money because of the trade embargo the U.S. imposed on the communist-run island in 1960.

Cuba says the embargo which it calls a blockade, is hugely damaging to its economy.

The U.S Embassy reopens in Havana on Friday, with the U.S. Secretary of State, John Kerry attending.