Havana, Jan 29 (IANS): Cuba and North Korea signed two protocols on trade and scientific and technical development.

These documents were signed on Thursday by Cuba's Minister of Foreign Trade and Foreign Investment Rodrigo Malmierca, and North Korean Ambassador to Cuba Pak Chang Yul, Xinhua reported.

The trade protocol established the exchange of goods between both parties through a barter agreement in favour of supplies for Cuba's railway union and the sugar industry.

The agreements will also support other sectors such as healthcare, higher education, culture, sports and agriculture, among others.

Both Malmierca and Pak agreed that there exists a strong political will between Havana and Pyongyang to develop their economic and science links.

Cuba and North Korea established diplomatic relations on August 28, 1960, and have maintained relations in trade and commerce while supporting each other in international political forums.

At present, the Caribbean island and the Asian country have ties in education, oil, agriculture and trade.