French, Cuban Businesspeople Meet, Explore Opportunities

Havana, Mar 7. – A large delegation from the Business Movement of France (MEDEF) attended a business forum with their Cuban counterparts to strengthen trade links and identify business opportunities.

The French delegation represents the sectors of tourism, construction, transport, energy and agriculture, sugar and others.

The meeting at the Havana-based Parque Central Hotel, was organized by the Ministry of Foreign Trade and Investment (MINCEX), the Chamber of Commerce of Cuba and MEDEF.

Acting President of the Chamber of Commerce of Cuba Odalys Seijo highlighted the importance of systematizing these events for a better contribution to the common interests of the two countries.

She referred to the CCC's active role in supporting local entrepreneurs, in a greater diversification of markets and in increasing import replacement-oriented exports.

She urged MEDEF to have a larger presence in the International Fair of Havana that will mark its 30th anniversary this year.

Head of MEDEF and Director General of the Pernod Ricard, Pierre Prinquet, said that the current situation in Cuba, Latin America and the world, is favourable for giving a boost to trade and business.

There is a long-standing relation of the French entrepreneurs with Cuba, said Pringuet, who added that the process of updating of the country's economic and social model is a good opportunity for stronger bilateral trade links.

This is the eighth MEDEF's visit to Cuba since 1994, when such missions to Havana started.

Cuba buys from France mainly wheat grain, additives for lubricants, spare parts and other items, and exports to France tobacco, lobster, rum and other products, according to Head of Economic Policy of MINCEX, Irelys Domenech.

She gave an update on results of the Cuban economy in 2011, the prospects for this year and the bilateral trade relations.

France is Cuba's fourth trade partner in Europe after Spain, Holland and Russia.(Prensa Latina)