Cuba, DPRK vow to strengthen ties amid escalating tensions with US

HAVANA - Cuba and the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) on Wednesday vowed to strengthen ties amid escalating political tensions with Washington.

During a meeting with visiting DPRK Foreign Minister Ri Yong-ho, Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez reiterated Havana's position that the nuclear issue on the Korean Peninsula can only be resolved through dialogue and negotiations.

"Cuba pleads for peace and political stability on the Korean peninsula," he said.

The Cuban diplomat also rejected "unilateral sanctions" and the inclusion of the DPRK in the US list of state sponsors of terrorism only two days ago by the Trump administration.

"We reiterate our respect for state sovereignty and independence, (and) the self-determination of its people, and reject the use of force against any nation," added Rodriguez.

He said that the relations between Havana and Pyongyang have developed in a satisfactory way on the basis of the traditional friendship established by leaders of older generations of the two nations.

"The situation on the Korean Peninsula is worsening and is tense because of the increased use of military forces by the imperialists," said Ri.

The DPRK foreign minister arrived in Cuba on Monday and is expected to meet Cuban President Raul Castro on Wednesday.

The visit comes at a moment when both countries see intensifying political tensions with the United States.