European Union and Cuba sign agreement to normalize relations

[HAVANA] The European Union and Cuba inked an agreement on Friday to normalize relations, paving the way for the 28-member bloc to establish full economic cooperation and aid with the Communist-run Caribbean island.

Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez witnessed the signing of the pact at a ceremony in Havana along with EU foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini.

"This is a historic day for bilateral relations," Mogherini said.

The deal, which comes amid Cuba's thawing ties with the United States, must now be ratified by the governments of the EU bloc and Cuba.

The accord establishes an ongoing political dialogue and sets parameters for commerce and aid, replacing a unilateral policy imposed by Europe 20 years ago that angered Cuba by pushing for changes to its one-party political system.

REUTERS