Cuba commits itself to energy sovereignty with EU support

In statements to Prensa Latina, on the occasion of the recently held first sectorial dialogue on cooperation in the field of energy between Cuba and the EU, he stated that during the meeting, Cuba presented its priorities in a complex scenario.

One of the interests discussed was the development of renewable sources, in a context marked by the intensification of the US blockade and its impact on access to fossil fuels, and the country’s commitments to combat climate change, particularly the reduction of emissions of polluting gases into the atmosphere, he pointed out.

According to Cid, the island’s goal is to reach 24 percent energy generation from the so-called clean sources by 2030, a goal embodied in projects under the 18 million euro agreement signed by Havana and Brussels for the sector, and also materialized in initiatives resulting from bilateral or trilateral cooperation.

The first deputy minister described Monday and Tuesday’s talks in this city as favorable and highlighted the participation of the European Commissioner for Energy, Kadri Simson, and by video-conference of the Cuban Minister of Energy and Mines, Livan Arronte, which proves the parties’ commitment.

I think we achieved the purpose of exchanging views on such an important and current issue, and we appreciate a collaborative and receptive stance on our views, he commented.

Cid told Prensa Latina that the meeting left a consensus to draw up a road map, in order to reflect the path to be taken and the possibility of ensuring its monitoring.

With respect to Cuba-EU project linked to renewable energies by a fund of 18 million euros, he stressed that it has almost begun its implementation, but that the conversation allowed to explain to the European side the steps taken. Without a doubt, this situation reinforces the objective of energy sovereignty, among other issues, by reducing dependence on imports, he stated. (Taken from Prensa Latina)