Rodrigo Malmierca Diaz made the remarks in the first joint trade meeting of Iran and Cuba held in the presence of Cuban and Iranian officials and businessmen on Monday.
Iran and Cuba share the same experience of living under embargos and they should use the experience as a roadmap for exploring new ways for furthering economic cooperation, Diaz said.
Cuba aims to boost its relations with other countries based on mutual respect, enhancing people's welfare and progressing forward in all areas particularly in the field of economy, he said.
Iran as an economic partner can help Cuba achieve its goals and expand its economic outreach as far as the markets in Asia, Diaz said.
The Cuban minister said that despite the visit by US President Barak Obama to Havana, sanctions against Cuba are still in place and the country has to adopt short-term programs for its economic progress.
The official also welcomed presence of Iranian economic delegation in Havana.
Iranian companies can play a significant role in economic development of the country, he said.
Iran and Cuba on Monday signed a memorandum of understanding to boost their economic cooperation.
The cooperation document was signed on the sidelines of the first joint trade meeting of Iran and Cuba.
Heading a 120-member delegation, Zarif arrived in Cuba on Sunday night on the first leg of his Latin American tour.
He will travel to Nicaragua, Ecuador, Chile, Bolivia and Venezuela, respectively after visiting Cuba and during his week-long tour.
Zarif's visit is aimed at fostering Iran's political and economic relations with Latin American countries after the implementation of the Joint Comprehensive Plan Of Action and removal of sanctions against the Islamic Republic.
Iranian foreign minister will stay in one country each day and hold talks with senior officials of the six countries on his itinerary.
By IRNA
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