EU lifts sanctions to encourage reform in Cuba

The EU is to lift sanctions against Cuba in a bid to encourage reforms.

The measures were introduced after former President Fidel Castro launched a crackdown on political opponents in 2003.

The sanctions, including a freeze on high level diplomatic visits, were suspended in 2005. Last night the EU's 27 foreign ministers agreed to permanently remove them.

External Relations Commissioner Benita Ferrero-Waldner announced in Brussels: 'Cuban sanctions will be lifted.'

The move is largely symbolic, but will be seen as a victory for Cuba's new premier, Raul Castro - who took over from his brother nearly two years ago.

European leaders are keen to encourage him to press ahead with democratic and economic reforms.

Earlier this month Gordon Brown pledged British support for lifting sanctions. It was said this was a move calculated  to win the support of left-wing MPs for 42-day pre-charge detention of terror suspects.

However, the Prime Minister has repeatedly insisted that no deals were done over the controversial vote, which the Government won with the narrowest of majorities.

The ailing 81-year-old Castro stepped down as Cuba's president for health reasons in February. He has not been seen in public for nearly two years.

Earlier this week a video clip showed Castro looking thin but animated while meeting with Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez.

Then yesterday Uruguayan president Tabare Vazquez said he found Fidel Castro to be lucid and in good spirits during a meeting.

Vazquez, a doctor by training, is on an official visit to the Caribbean nation. He says Castro appeared to be 'very well' and the worst of his health crisis seemed to be over.