The second bilateral political dialogue session between Italy and Cuba, co-chaired by Under-Secretary Giro and Deputy Foreign Minister of Cuba Sierra Diaz took place today. The encounter provided continuity to bilateral dialogue within the broader framework of Cuban-EU relations. Italy is closely observing the island’s implementation of an economic system founded on measures aimed at stimulating private enterprise based on cooperative and micro-enterprise models (cuentapropismo).
Open to international partnerships
The creation of a Special Development Zone in the area of Mariel, and the recent approval of a law on foreign investments, are major elements supporting the island’s openness to international partnerships, in which Italy is a key player. Also under way are negotiations for a new bilateral accord against double taxation.
Economic-entrepreneurial relations
Among bilateral topics, special emphasis was placed on economic-entrepreneurial relations, especially in light of the presence of Italian business persons in Cuba and also ahead of the possible start of collaboration in the sector of cooperatives. Also discussed were the main policy and economic themes, of the two countries and globally, possible development cooperation projects and the numerous issues associated with the framework agreement between the EU and Cuba.
