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Dutch break with EU to open political dialogue with Cuba
Source: Reuters
Dutch break with EU to open political dialogue with Cuba
BY MARC FRANK
HAVANA Tue Jan 7, 2014 1:20pm EST
(Reuters) - The Dutch foreign minister signed an agreement on Tuesday with his Cuban counterpart to engage in political consultations, breaking ranks with the European Union which limits high-level visits and talks with the Communist-run Caribbean island.
Dutch Foreign Minister Frans Timmermans, on the second of a two-day visit to Cuba, urged the European Union to adjust its relationship with Cuba, stating, "Havana through the centuries has been a meeting point between Europe and the Americas and I believe it still has an important role to play in this regard."
Timmermans, as he sat down for talks with Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez, praised Cuba's efforts to "bring an end to the last violent conflict in the region," referring to its hosting of peace talks between the Colombian government and local rebels.
Rodriguez said he welcomed the opportunity to hold discussions on issues of common interest and that changes underway on the island represented an opportunity for Dutch businesses.
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BY MARC FRANK
HAVANA Tue Jan 7, 2014 1:20pm EST
(Reuters) - The Dutch foreign minister signed an agreement on Tuesday with his Cuban counterpart to engage in political consultations, breaking ranks with the European Union which limits high-level visits and talks with the Communist-run Caribbean island.
Dutch Foreign Minister Frans Timmermans, on the second of a two-day visit to Cuba, urged the European Union to adjust its relationship with Cuba, stating, "Havana through the centuries has been a meeting point between Europe and the Americas and I believe it still has an important role to play in this regard."
Timmermans, as he sat down for talks with Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez, praised Cuba's efforts to "bring an end to the last violent conflict in the region," referring to its hosting of peace talks between the Colombian government and local rebels.
Rodriguez said he welcomed the opportunity to hold discussions on issues of common interest and that changes underway on the island represented an opportunity for Dutch businesses.
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Read more: http://www.reuters.com/article/2014/01/07/us-cuba-netherlands-idUSBREA060WJ20140107