The progressive foreign policy changes between the U.S. and Cuba may help influence further engagement between the U.S. and other countries, such as Iran.

President Barack Obama has been criticized for a cautious on foreign policy, but the secret negotiations on Cuba suggest willingness for bold and risky action, if he can keep tight control and rely on a few close aides.

It’s a pattern Obama followed during clandestine talks with Iran that led to an interim nuclear deal and in under-the-radar discussions with China on a climate change agreement announced last month.

Such diplomatic breakthroughs have buoyed Obama and may help counter charges that his responses to other international matters, including the rise of Islamic State militants and Russia’s aggression in Ukraine, are weak and ineffective.

CCTV America interviewed Ryan Costello, a policy fellow with the National Iranian American Council, about the impact Cuban negotiations may have on U.S. and Iranian relations.

Story compiled with CCTV America and AP reports.