HAVANA, April 16 (Xinhua) -- The Cuban government decided to advance the ordinary session of the national parliament, which will appoint the new president of the country, to April 18, an official release said Monday.

The Council of State of the Republic of Cuba agreed to begin the constituent session of the National Assembly of People's Power, the country's legislative body, on April 18 at Havana's Palace of Conventions, said a statement broadcasted by the official Radio Reloj.

Previously, the beginning of the constituent session was scheduled for Thursday. The new president will replace Raul Castro.?