Cuba, EU pave way for new political, economic relations (3)

Photo taken on Jan. 27, 2013 shows the first phase of the Cuba's Special Development Zone in the port of Mariel, about 50 kilometers west of Havana, capital of Cuba. (Xinhua/Liu Bin)

The signing of the agreement came just 10 days before Obama's planned visit to Cuba and this sends out a clear statement from the EU to Washington, Claro noted.

"Europe has taken the step to start a new political era, not only because the Common Position was obsolete, but also so (that) Washington understands the EU is an important player in Cuba's economic future," Claro said.

Mogherini also highlighted the rapprochement between the United States and Cuba and hoped this agreement could help the normalization of ties between the former Cold War enemies.

"We have a lot of history in common, a dynamic present and a bright future ahead of us. Europe never left from Cuba," said the EU foreign policy chief.

The deal, which establishes an ongoing political dialogue and sets parameters for economic cooperation and delivery of aid to Cuba, is subject to ratification by the governments of the 28 countries of the EU as well as Cuba.

The EU already has similar agreements with all other countries in Latin America and the Caribbean region.

Since 2008, Havana has signed cooperation agreements with 17 of the 28 countries of the European community. The EU is the largest foreign investor and the third biggest source of tourism in the Caribbean country.