Having learnt the news of the passing away of Comandante Fidel Castro, I would like first of all to express my most heartfelt condolences to his brother Raul, their family and friends.

Fidel Castro was a man of determination and an historical figure. He passes away in times of great challenges and uncertainties. And of great changes in his country.

With agreeing on the Political Dialogue and Cooperation Agreement last spring, the European Union opened a new chapter in relations that have always been strong through decades with the Cuban people. The European Union will keep bringing forward its strong engagement with Cuba.