HAVANA (Reuters) – Cuba’s foreign minister announced that Cuba will seek to expand cooperation at the upcoming summit of European Union, Latin American, and Caribbean leaders. However, he expressed concerns about the EU’s behavior, accusing them of manipulative actions that could hinder the leaders’ ambitions.
The heads of state from the EU and the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC) are scheduled to meet in Brussels on July 17-18. This summit marks the first gathering after an eight-year break, and discussions are expected to cover topics such as climate change, development financing, and the humanitarian crisis in Haiti.
In a statement on Monday, Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez stated, “We hope the summit will allow us to expand inclusive and mutually advantageous cooperation in areas of high priority,” highlighting food security and renewable power as key areas. However, Rodriguez voiced concerns about the EU’s lack of transparency and manipulative tactics in preparing for the summit, which could jeopardize its success.
According to the diplomat, the EU attempted to impose restrictive and divisive methods of negotiation, making it impossible to have direct and transparent talks. The EU’s diplomatic service has not yet responded to requests for comment regarding these allegations.
Rodriguez emphasized that those who try to impose a biased and European-focused perspective on the bi-regional relationship will not succeed in Brussels. Despite U.S. sanctions against Havana and the entrance of Russian businessmen into the island, the EU remains Cuba’s top trade partner and claims to be committed to mutual respect.
Josep Borrell, the EU’s top diplomat, visited Havana in May, where he criticized the longstanding trade embargo against Cuba imposed by the United States. He has also voiced concerns about Cuba’s human rights record.
“Cuba will attend the Brussels summit with a constructive spirit,” stated Rodriguez, adding that the country aims to contribute as much as possible to strengthening EU-CELAC relations based on equality and mutual respect.
(Reporting by Nelson Acosta; Writing by Sarah Morland; Editing by Marguerita Choy)
Credit: The Star : News Feed
