Finian McGrath
Ceist:149 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he has plans in 2003 to develop the social, political and economic links with the Republic of Cuba; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6358/03]
Written Answers - Diplomatic Relations.
Political links with Cuba have strengthened considerably in recent years, in particular since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1999, which led to the accreditation to Cuba of the Irish ambassador based in Mexico City. Cuba estab lished a resident embassy in Dublin in 2001. In 2001 also, a delegation of the Oireachtas Joint Committee on Foreign Affairs visited Cuba.
The establishment of diplomatic relations has led to a number of initiatives for bilateral agreements. Proposals are under consideration for the conclusion of agreements between the two Governments in the areas of criminal mutual legal assistance, co-operation against drugs and the transfer of sentenced prisoners. These proposals are currently being examined by the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform, in consultation with other relevant Departments, offices and agencies. Later this year, when Ireland joins the EU Troika in preparation for its 2004 Presidency, we look forward to participating in the annual political dialogue meeting at ministerial level between the EU and Cuba.
In recent years trade between Ireland and Cuba has fluctuated considerably. In 2001, total trade amounted to almost €2.1 million: imports from Cuba totalling approximately €1.2 million and exports to Cuba totalling approximately €880,000. The Cuban Government has introduced a number of economic reforms and, in this context, the Government, along with our EU partners, is keen to see the development of business relations. It is noteworthy, in this regard, that the European Commission is to establish a resident delegation office in Havana next month. We will continue to monitor the situation with a view to identifying opportunities for future trade co-operation.
Anecdotal evidence suggests that social contacts between our two countries and our peoples are stronger than ever, due mainly to the increasing number of Irish tourists travelling to Cuba. Since the Irish Government does not have a role in the promotion of outbound tourism, I am not in possession of exact figures. In January 2003, the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism, on the recommendation of the cultural relations committee, provided funding to an Irish artist, Mr. Barry Dinan, towards the cost of an exhibition in Cuba from March to May 2003. I am also aware that the Cuban authorities have recently approached the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism with a view to negotiating a cultural agreement between that country and Ireland. The proposal is currently being examined.
Question No. 150 answered with Question No. 142.