Cuba agrees to open talks with EU on new political accord

HAVANA, (Reuters) – Cuba accepted a proposal by the European Union to open negotiations on a new political accord, saying yesterday it was willing to discuss human rights as part of discussions that would end what it considers a one-sided relationship with Europe. On Feb. 10, the EU agreed to begin negotiations with Cuba to increase trade, investment and dialogue on human rights in its most significant diplomatic shift since Brussels lifted sanctions on the communist-ruled country in 2008. Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez said Cuba welcomed the proposal as it “signifies the end of the unilateral policy of the EU towards Cuba,” adding that Havana was ready to start negotiations.