On an official visit in France April 21, Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez met with his French counterpart, Laurent Fabius, who expressed interest in expanding ties between the countries.
The two ministers subsequently held a joint press conference and addressed issues on the international agenda, including the upcoming United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP21), to be held in Paris this coming December, and the subject of migration.
They discussed preparations being made for President François Hollande’s visit to Cuba, which they described as historic, since it will be the first time a French head of state visits the island.
Fabius noted that, during his 2014 trip to Cuba, the expansion of relations was discussed, and progress is being made toward that end, with work advancing to strengthen cooperation and continue talks in a variety of areas. Cuba and France are both concerned about a number of issues, including national independence and peaceful solutions to international conflicts, he said.
The French Foreign Minister emphasized that his country has always opposed the economic, financial, commercial blockade imposed by the U.S. on Cuba for more than 50 years, and has called for its elimination.
Rodríguez indicated that relations with France are a priority for the Cuban government, as they have been historically, noting longstanding ties, especially in the cultural arena.
He said that that a solid base for expansion of relations exists, including a broad range of cultural, academic, scientific and economic ties; the growing presence of French tourists in Cuba; and current cooperation projects.
Rodríguez added that relations between Cuba and the European Union are progressing, and thanked his counterpart for supporting this process, noting that the role of France has been decisive.
Referring to Hollande’s visit to Cuba, he said, “Certainly it will be appreciated by the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States, as an expression of the priority France places on relations with the region.”
Rodríguez concluded his two day visit to France yesterday April 21, and continued his European tour which includes stops in Belgium, Luxembourg and the Netherlands.
