US millionaire and philanthropist Gilbert Brownstone has donated 120 works by Pablo Picasso, Joan Miró, Andy Warhol, Marcel Duchamp and five other leading artists to Cuba's National Museum of Fine Art.

Mr Brownstone personally handed over engravings and drawings as the first instalment of the donation at a ceremony in Havana. The 60-year-old American - who also has Swiss nationality - was awarded the Medal of Friendship by Cuba's highest executive body, the Council of State.

The philanthropist who visits Cuba regularly hailed the communist island nation for having done "so much for the culture of its people".

Washington broke off diplomatic relations with Cuba in 1961, imposing comprehensive economic sanctions. Both governments resumed negotiations on migration and postal exchange issues last year.

Street band in Havana, Cuba (deVos, Flickr)