Chinese Prime Minister Li Keqiang met Cuban President Raul Castro on Saturday in Cuba's capital city Havana.  Li, who is on a two-day visit to Cuba, is the second high-profile Chinese leader to visit Cuba since both countries established diplomatic relationship 56 years ago.

Both leaders signed nearly 30 agreements on Saturday, Reuters reported citing a report in Cuban state media. The agreements between both countries include cooperation on important areas like science, environmental, industry, energy, public health, and agricultural sectors.

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China has reportedly agreed to extend a line of credit to Cuba for certain projects. However, it was not specified how much would be offered on credit. Speaking about his maiden visit to Cuba, Li told a Cuban state-owned newspaper that the purpose of his two-day visit is to "intensify the mutual political trust" between the two countries.

Although Beijing and Havana are bonded by communist ideology, the two countries have never enjoyed close ties. This was mainly due to Cuba's self-isolation and the vast geographical distance between the two countries.

However, Cuba has been pursuing a path of political transformation ever its talismanic leader Fidel Castro handed over the reins to his younger brother Raul. The country's decision to embark on the path of economic reforms has attracted the interest of several international investors.

Cuba's decision to mend ties with the United States has also had a positive impact on the country's reputation on international stage. Earlier this week, Cuba welcomed Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, who became the latest high-profile leader to visit the communist country. 

TagsLi Keqiang, Raul Castro, China and Cuba, Cuba, Premier Li Keqiang's Visit to Cuba