HAVANA, Cuba. – The ratification by the European Parliament of the Agreement on political dialogue and cooperation between Cuba and the European Union opens up new opportunities for expanding the links between the two sides, an official of the Cuban Chancellery said this Thursday.

Elio Rodriguez, Director for Europe of the Cuban Ministry of Foreign Affairs said that the covenant favors the progress in the political and economic relations between that bloc and Cuba.

The agreement on political dialogue and cooperation, Rodriguez said, creates a legal framework that will enhance trade between the two parties and allow Europe to become more involved in Cuba´s medium-and long-term development plans.

The Director for Europe of the Cuban Chancellery emphasized the disposition of the island to expand relations with the European Union in sectors of common interest, based on respect, reciprocity and mutual benefit.