(VOVworld) – On Friday visiting British Foreign Secretary Philip Hammond and Cuban President Raul Castro discussed closer bilateral ties, especially in trade and tourism. Hammond told reporters after the meeting that they had productive talks about Cuba’s economic development. He promised the UK’s support for Cuba in financial services, tourism, and renewable energy.
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| Cuban President Raul Castro (right) and Foreign Secretary Philip Hammond in Cuba (Photo: Twitter) |
Earlier Hammond met with his Cuban counterpart Bruno Rodriguez to discuss improvements to Cuba’s socio-economic policies. The same day, the two foreign ministers witnessed the signing of several agreements in energy, education, culture, and financial services.
Hammond was the first British Foreign Secretary to visit Cuba since 1959. British exports to Cuba saw a year-on-year increase of 32% in 2015. The UK is eyeing trans-Atlantic economic cooperation and Cuba has gained significant socio-economic development, which can benefit both countries.