HAVANA, April 29 (Xinhua) -- Cuba and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on Monday signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on mutual visa exemptions, according to Cuban local media.

The MoU was signed by Cuban Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Anayansi Rodriguez and UAE's Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Yacoub Yousef Hassan Al Hosani, said the Cuban News Agency (ACN).

Before signing the memorandum, Rodriguez reiterated Cuba's willingness to develop bilateral ties and strengthen cooperation with the UAE during her meeting with Al Hosani, who is on a work visit to Havana, said the ACN.

Cuba and the UAE established diplomatic relations in 2002.

In 2015, the two sides signed an agreement on air services. Last year, both countries agreed to boost economic and commercial exchanges.