Ruairi Quinn (Dublin South East, Labour)
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Question 62: To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he favours a new framework programme which would ensure that all EU countries respected Cuba's sovereignty; and whether such a programme would replace the present common position. [20935/10]

Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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The European Union's relationship with Cuba takes place within the framework of the EU Common Position on Cuba agreed in 1996. In 2004, a Political Dialogue was established which covers a broad range of issues including human rights. Each year, the Foreign Affairs Council considers the EU's relations with Cuba and agrees Conclusions on the implementation of the Common Position.

Discussions have begun within the EU with a view to the possible elaboration of a more extensive EU-Cuba Agreement, more consistent with association and cooperation agreements which the EU has concluded with other Latin American and Caribbean States. These discussions are at an early stage and Ireland is actively engaged in the process. This was one of the issues which I discussed during my meeting with the Cuban Foreign Minister, Bruno Rodriguez Parilla, which took place yesterday.