Havana, Cuba.-The European Parliament´s ratification for the Political Dialogue and Cooperation Agreement between Cuba and the European Union (EU) provides new openings for the ties between both parties, Cuban Foreign Ministry official said.

As stated by Elio Rodriguez, director for Cuban Foreign Ministry´ Europe Department, such an agreement will further progress in political and economic relations between the EU and Cuba.

This document, said Rodriguez, will enhance trade between both parties and enable Europe to a greater participation in Cuba´s medium and long-term development plans.

The agreement, passed by the European Parliament with 567 votes in favor, 61 against and 31 abstentions, ends the so-called Common Position adopted by the regional bloc in 1996 and rejected by Havana for its unilateral, selective and discriminatory character.

The broad support for the new agreement proves that this approach is widely supported by the majority in the EU and highlights the opposition of the regional community to the current US policy against Cuba.

Rodriguez acknowledged the role played by Mogherini as promoter for the new regional policy towards Cuba, who after the historic approval by the European Parliament, said that the EU pledged its firm commitment to a constructive, respectful and equal dialogue with the Cuban government.

The Vice-President of the European Commission also reaffirmed that the EU will maintain its opposition to the US blockade and its extraterritorial effects, which has recently affected economic, commercial and financial European entities.