EU stands with Cuba despite U.S. policy changes, says foreign relations chief

HAVANA, Jan. 3 (Xinhua) -- The European Union (EU)'s representative for foreign affairs and security policy on Wednesday said the bloc stands with Cuba in its reform process regardless of recent U.S. policy changes which seek to isolate the island nation.

In a conference at the San Geronimo College in Old Havana, Federica Mogherinit, who is on a two-day official visit to Cuba, ensured her listeners that the EU will strengthen ties with Cuba.

"As Europeans want to show that we are closer than ever to you, that Cuba will not be left alone. In front of those who build walls and close doors, we want to build bridges and open doors through cooperation and dialogue," she said.

"It isn't time for demonstrations of force that lead nowhere and are really a proof of weakness ... the best way to accompany Cuba's transformation is through commitment and dialogue," she added.

Last year, U.S President Donald Trump decided to roll back the historic opening and process of normalization of ties initiated by his predecessor, Barack Obama, and imposed trade and travel restrictions on Cuba.

New possibilities arose for the EU and Cuba after a framework agreement for political dialogue and cooperation in various fields came into effect last November.

Exploring new cooperation opportunities is the objective of Mogherini's current visit, the first since the agreement was formalized, currently awaiting approval by the parliaments of the EU's 28 member states for full implementation.

"We are not afraid of change, we are not afraid of a strong, cooperative Cuba open to the world," she said.

Mogherini also said she will hold talks with Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez on Thursday, when they will discuss details of the upcoming celebration of the first joint council between the two sides.

The European diplomat also visited the cultural centers in Old Havana funded by the EU.

Since 2008, Havana has signed cooperation agreements with 19 of the EU's 28 members to establish a new framework of relations with EU members. Enditem