In that sense, he expressed the interest of the Netherlands -Cuba’s important trade partner within the European Union (EU)- to increase ties of cooperation in agriculture, tourism, energy, ecology, education, and culture.

After describing his visit as fruitful and positive, the foreign minister stated that a Dutch trade mission, aimed at strengthening economic relations, is expected to visit the Caribbean island next year.

Other areas we also consider important in terms of collaboration is the struggle against drug trafficking and the issue of security to fight crimes associated to that scourge: there are opportunities to work jointly in that sphere, he noted.

On the other hand, the Dutch diplomatic head stressed his country’s support in the dialogue process between Cuba and the United States: we have tried to promote the development of those negotiations with the community bloc as soon as possible.

Koenders also recalled that his country has always criticized the economic, commercial and financial blockade imposed by the United States to Cuba for more than 50 years.

(Prensa Latina)