Category: Cuba

China’s support helping Cuba advance towards energy sovereignty and sustainability

Cuba’s electricity system has come under intense pressure in recent years, shaped by decades of US sanctions, an ageing oil-based grid, and chronic fuel shortages due to restrictions on imports from Russia and Venezuela – a function of the US’s illegal and suffocating blockade. With peak demand reaching 2,500 MW and shortfalls of up to 1,300 MW, widespread daytime power cuts have caused significant disruptions to daily life, from water pumping to refrigeration. While emergency repairs and energy-efficiency measures—supported partly by Russian engineering—have stabilised around 850 MW, the fundamental solution being pursued is based on restructuring Cuba’s energy matrix toward renewable sources.

In this project, China has emerged as Cuba’s most vital partner. In 2024–25, China helped launch an ambitious programme of 55 solar farms capable of supplying 1,200 MW by the end of the year, with 37 more planned by 2028. This collaboration directly addresses Cuba’s shortfalls and reduces its dependence on imported fossil fuels. Chinese assistance also includes refurbishing wind turbines and supplying distributed-generation equipment, spare parts, and thousands of photovoltaic systems for isolated homes.

A recent landmark inauguration in Guanajay of the Mártires de Barbados II solar park symbolises this deepening partnership. The project, part of a Chinese donation that will add 120 MW to Cuba’s grid, was completed in record time thanks to tight coordination between Chinese and Cuban companies. The second phase, already underway, will add another 85 MW plus battery storage. Addressing the inauguration, Chinese Ambassador Hua Xin stated that these efforts embody China’s commitment to Cuba’s sustainable development and to building a China–Cuba community with a shared future. Cuban officials echoed this sentiment, emphasising that the new solar parks will save tens of thousands of tons of imported fuel annually, cut nearly 50,000 tons of CO₂ emissions, and significantly reduce service disruptions.

Against a backdrop of US hostility and sanctions, China’s steady, practical support is helping Cuba advance toward energy sovereignty, economic resilience, and a cleaner, more secure future.

We republish below a report on the inauguration from Granma, the newspaper of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Cuba, along with the text of a speech by British environmental campaigner Paul Atkin at the National Education Union (NEU) Cuba Solidarity Education Conference on 15th November about Cuba’s turn to solar power.

China’s cooperation with Cuba in the energy sector remains strong and steady

Guanajay, Artemisa.– “China’s cooperation with Cuba in the energy sector remains strong and steady, from ongoing projects, such as equipment and spare parts for distributed generation, the 5,000 photovoltaic systems for isolated homes, and the installation of other solar photovoltaic parks (PSFV) with a total capacity of 85 MW, to the next project to install another 200 MW and the new 5,000 photovoltaic systems for isolated homes.”

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Cuban culture celebrated in London

Friends of Socialist China co-editors Carlos Martinez and Keith Bennett were pleased to join a celebration of Cuban Culture Day on October 21. Held in a packed Bolivar Hall, the cultural premises of the Venezuelan Embassy in London, ‘Cuban Mosaic: A Night of Identity and Resilience’ brought together Cuban artists and friends of Cuba from cultural and artistic circles for a dazzling medley of music, dance and poetry that served to well illustrate the vibrancy and diversity of Cuban culture and the society it reflects.

Organised by the Cuban Embassy in London, with support from the Cuba Solidarity Campaign (CSC), the evening was presided over by Ambassador Ismara Mercedes Vargas Walter, who expressed her pride in the artistic quality and warmth of the gathering, which strengthened ties between Cuba and people in Britain. Friends of Cuba from all walks of life were present at the invitation-only gathering.

The following report was originally published on the website of the Cuban Foreign Ministry.

On 21 October, in London, the Cuban Embassy, with the support of the Campaign for Solidarity with Cuba (CSC), hosted an unforgettable gala in celebration of Cuban Culture Day. Entitled ‘Cuban Mosaic: A Night of Identity and Resilience,’ the event brought together Cuban artists and friends of the island in the United Kingdom to offer a broad and exciting sample of our music, dance and poetry. The result was a vibrant and emotional evening at the Bolívar Hall of the Venezuelan Embassy in the United Kingdom.

The programme combined virtuosity, tradition and contemporary creativity, with Cuban artists presenting a variety of performances and instruments, from classical pieces to modern compositions, allowing the audience to experience the cultural richness of Cuba and the celebrations that take place in our country during October.

At various points, classics from the Cuban tradition were revived alongside arrangements and performances that reflected the vitality and relevance of our culture. The evening was opened by pianist Eralys Fernández and clarinettist Lester Chío Alonso, who offered a highly lyrical start. Guitarist Nikos Baroutsakis captivated the audience with his repertoire, while Ramon Goose and John Woodham brought rhythm and flavour with guitar and congas. Singer and multi-instrumentalist Sergio Marciano shone with pieces that connected directly with the audience. Dance talent was represented by Damarys Farres & CSA Dance Company, who offered choreographic moments of great expressive power, and the London Lucumi Choir provided the voices needed to complete the evening’s sound palette.

The diverse and enthusiastic audience included British parliamentarians, members of the diplomatic corps, representatives of cultural, business, consular and academic institutions, as well as the CSC. They all joined in the celebration, enjoyed the displays of Cuban culture up close and learned more about the significance of Cuban Culture Day, which commemorates the identity, resilience and creativity of our people.

Ambassador Ismara Mercedes Vargas Walter presided over the evening and expressed her pride in the artistic quality and warmth of the gathering, which strengthened ties between Cuba and the British public. The presence of diplomats, cultural representatives and friends of Cuba underscored the international and dialogue-oriented nature of the event.

Cuba-China diplomatic relations: 65 years from history to the future

The leaders of China and Cuba exchanged messages on September 28, marking the 65th anniversary of the diplomatic relations between the two socialist countries.

In his message to Miguel Diaz-Canel, First Secretary of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Cuba and Cuban President, General Secretary and President Xi Jinping noted that 65 years ago, Cuba took the lead among Western Hemisphere countries in establishing diplomatic relations with New China, opening a new chapter in China-Cuba relations. Over the past 65 years, China-Cuba relations have continued to deepen, becoming a model of solidarity and cooperation between socialist countries as well as a model of sincere mutual assistance among developing countries.

Xi also recalled that not long ago, Diaz-Canel came to China to attend the commemorations marking the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War. They met again and reached an important consensus on building a closer China-Cuba community with a shared future.

A joint congratulatory message by Diaz-Canel and General Raul Castro, leader of the Cuban Revolution, noted that for more than 60 years, Cuba-China relations have stood the test of time and continued to grow, with the two sides enjoying deep political mutual trust, close exchanges on socialist development, and a continually strengthened traditional brotherhood and friendly cooperation.

In a September 29 article, Granma, the official voice of the Cuban Communist Party (PCC), referenced the long history of friendship and solidarity between the two peoples, dating back to the wars of independence fought by the Cuban people in the latter part of the 19th century:

“On the century-long journey that unites the peoples of the two countries, the bonds have grown stronger and stronger: ‘There was not a single Cuban Chinese traitor, there was not a single Cuban Chinese deserter,’ reads the monument built in Havana in memory of those who fought for Cuba’s independence.

“The phrase on the metal plaque is still relevant today. In a sense, it can be interpreted as a prediction of the ties that were forged, and which have led to this friendship being described as ‘ironclad.’”

Granma further notes that, alongside the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1960:

“Ernesto Che Guevara’s visit to the Asian giant that same year was a key moment in the history of Chinese-Cuban ties and contributed to the development of a strategic relationship.

“In 1993, President Jiang Zemin would be the only head of state to visit the island, in a crucial context, after the collapse of the socialist camp… Years later, the Cuban government described the visit as ‘an invaluable gesture of brotherhood and confidence in our country’s capacity.’

“The images of Fidel on the Great Wall of China in 1995 are a fundamental part of the shared history. On December 1st, he walked 500 metres of the colossal structure, becoming the international head of state who had reached the highest point.”

Continue reading Cuba-China diplomatic relations: 65 years from history to the future

China and Cuba show that a better world is not only possible – it is being built day by day

The opening session of our China Conference 2025, held in London on September 27, was addressed by senior diplomats from the embassies of the People’s Republic of China, Republic of Cuba, Russian Federation, Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela and Lao People’s Democratic Republic.

Below we reprint the main body of the inspiring speech delivered by Pablo Arturo Ginarte Sampedro, First Secretary of the Embassy of the Republic of Cuba. He notes that: “This year we celebrate a momentous milestone: the 65th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Cuba and the People’s Republic of China. In 1960, revolutionary Cuba became the first nation in the Western Hemisphere to recognise the People’s Republic. That decision was an act of sovereignty and principle, and it laid the foundation for what has become an unbreakable, ironclad friendship. That friendship was forged by the historic leaders of our revolutions, Commander in Chief Fidel Castro Ruz and Chairman Mao Zedong.”

It is a profound honor to address you today from this historic place, Bolívar Hall, a beacon of Latin American culture and resistance here in London, graciously hosted by our dear Venezuelan comrades. On behalf of the people and government of the Republic of Cuba, I bring you the warmest, most fraternal greetings.

This year we celebrate a momentous milestone: the 65th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Cuba and the People’s Republic of China. In 1960, revolutionary Cuba became the first nation in the Western Hemisphere to recognise the People’s Republic. That decision was an act of sovereignty and principle, and it laid the foundation for what has become an unbreakable, ironclad friendship.

That friendship was forged by the historic leaders of our revolutions, Commander in Chief Fidel Castro Ruz and Chairman Mao Zedong. From those early days it has grown into a comprehensive strategic partnership. Today we work hand in hand to build a China-Cuba community with a shared future.

Our partnership extends well beyond trade and infrastructure. Equally important is our collaboration in science and technology. Together we are building sovereign scientific capacity in the Global South so the benefits of the fourth industrial revolution serve people, not only the profits of a few multinational corporations. This scientific solidarity is essential for achieving genuine independence in the 21st century.

For Cuba, these are not abstract ideals. For more than 60 years my country has resisted the most brutal and prolonged economic, commercial, and financial blockade in human history, a criminal policy imposed by the United States. In that struggle our friendship with China has been a vital pillar of support. Through trade, investment, and solidarity, China has offered a crucial lifeline and shown the world a model of relations based on sincere mutual assistance rather than imperial domination.

Continue reading China and Cuba show that a better world is not only possible – it is being built day by day

China and Cuba build on the friendship established by Chairman Mao and Fidel Castro

On the morning of September 4,  General Secretary of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China (CPC) and President Xi Jinping met at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing with First Secretary of the Central Committee of the Cuban Communist Party (PCC) and President of the Republic of Cuba Miguel Díaz-Canel Bermúdez who was in China for the commemoration of the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War.

President Xi pointed out that in recent years the building of a China-Cuba community with a shared future has deepened with tangible outcomes, which has become a vivid symbol of the ironclad friendship between the two parties and the two countries. This year marks the 65th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Cuba. Both sides should take this opportunity to bring China-Cuba relations to a higher level and bring more benefits to the two peoples.

President Díaz-Canel noted that the commemorative events marking the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression had a solemn and lively atmosphere and are of great historic significance. China’s important contributions to the victory of the World Anti-Fascist War will never be forgotten. Cuba was the first country in Latin America to build a bilateral community with a shared future with China. The relations between the two Parties and two countries are close, and the friendship is rock-solid.

The two sides released the Joint Statement between the People’s Republic of China and the Republic of Cuba on Accelerating the Construction of the China-Cuba Community with a Shared Future and signed multiple bilateral cooperation documents in such fields as Belt and Road cooperation, practical cooperation, the Global Security Initiative, sub-national agricultural cooperation, and artificial intelligence.

According to the joint statement: “The two Heads of State highly value the traditional friendship between the Republic of Cuba and the People’s Republic of China… and the fruitful results achieved in the development of relations and cooperation in various fields in the 65 years since the establishment of diplomatic relations. Cuba and China are good friends, good comrades and good brothers. The friendship between Cuba and China was forged by the historical leaders of the two countries, represented by Mao Zedong and Fidel Castro Ruz.”

It notes that, “The Heads of State emphasise that the relationship between Cuba and China is at its most favourable historical point. They reaffirm their strong political commitment to advancing bilateral relations by accelerating the development of a Cuba-China Community of Shared Future. The two leaders engaged in a comprehensive exchange of views on party and country relations, reaching significant consensus. They agree to continue strengthening strategic communication, increasing high-level exchanges, deepening both bilateral and multilateral political cooperation, and promoting collaboration at all levels and in all areas. They also commit to further enhancing the special friendly relations between China and Cuba in the New Era and to speeding up the establishment of the Cuba-China Community of Shared Future.”

The Cuban side highly values the outstanding theoretical and practical contributions of Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for the New Era and hopes that the Chinese people will continue to make new and greater achievements in building socialism under the firm leadership of Comrade Xi Jinping and the CPC.

The Chinese side highly values and firmly supports the fact that, under the leadership of the PCC, the Cuban people persevere on the path of socialism and continuously explore a development model in accordance with their own national conditions, overcoming all difficulties. The Chinese side reaffirms its willingness to deepen friendship, strengthen solidarity and expand cooperation in all fields with the Cuban side.

The Chinese side reaffirms its firm support for the Cuban people in their struggle to defend their national sovereignty against the economic, commercial and financial blockade imposed by the United States. The unjust and illegal blockade of the United States harms the right to life of the Cuban people and constitutes the main obstacle to Cuba’s development. The Chinese side once again calls on the United States to remove Cuba from the arbitrary “list of state sponsors of terrorism.”

Both sides agree to continue strengthening the special ties between the CPC and the PCC, as the cornerstone of relations between the two countries.

Both sides agree to deepen cooperation in science, technology and innovation in the fields of cybersecurity, nanotechnology, life sciences, biomedicine, food production and agrotechnology, brain sciences, biodiversity, climate change, energy and environment, digital transformation, robotics and automation.

Continue reading China and Cuba build on the friendship established by Chairman Mao and Fidel Castro

China demands end to US blockade of Cuba, expands scientific collaboration

In the following article for Workers World, Andrew Johnson highlights the deepening solidarity between China and Cuba, rooted in the two countries’ shared socialist project and their opposition to imperialism. The article highlights China’s increasingly assertive international stance, enabled by decades of rapid state-led economic development, which has lifted hundreds of millions out of poverty and positioned China as an economic and technological powerhouse.

China has become Cuba’s largest trading partner and a vital ally as Cuba continues to endure the harsh effects of the decades-long US blockade, which has intensified since the Soviet Union’s collapse. The blockade, described by China’s Foreign Ministry as a “profound disaster” and a violation of international law, prevents Cuba from trading freely and punishes third-party countries for engaging economically with the island.

Demonstrating practical solidarity, China has donated solar panels to bolster Cuba’s energy grid and continues to expand scientific collaboration. A major development is the establishment of a joint biotech lab between the Cuban Center for Immunoassay and China’s Beijing Institute of Technology, focused on research into viruses like Covid-19 and influenza. In February 2025, the first Sino-Cuban biopharmaceutical company opened in Changzi, China, dedicated to producing advanced antibody medicines.

The article frames these moves as part of a broader resurgence of socialist internationalism, with Cuba joining BRICS as a partner state in 2023. The collaboration between the two nations poses a challenge to waning US hegemony and a step toward building a more multipolar world.

Andrew concludes:

China and Cuba both boast a history of scientific achievements, particularly in the biomedical field. Increased scientific cooperation between the two countries is proving to be a powerful basis for the two socialist countries to bilaterally strengthen their solidarity.

The People’s Republic of China (PRC) has a long history of supporting the global working class. This has recently included vital support for and cooperative projects with socialist Cuba that aid both countries’ people. 

Continue reading China demands end to US blockade of Cuba, expands scientific collaboration

May Day in Cuba – a reaffirmation of the Revolution

The following article by Bernard Regan, originally published in Labour Outlook, outlines the significance of the May Day celebrations in Cuba, in which “over one million Cubans demonstrate in Havana in the Plaza de la Revolución, led by the trade union movement”.

Bernard discusses the cruel economic blockade imposed on Cuba by the US, now being doubled down on by the Trump administration. Biden, a few days before leaving office, removed Cuba from the list of State Sponsors of Terrorism, only for the designation to be restored by Trump within 24 hours of entering the White House. Cuba’s ridiculous designation as a state sponsor of terrorism “is designed to cut Cuba off from any access to international banking agencies making it extremely difficult, if not impossible to trade, to obtain vital medicines, foodstuffs, materials and equipment critical to the functioning of the island’s economy from other countries worldwide”.

The article observes that China is working with Cuba to help reduce the island’s dependency on oil, with agreements in place to for Chinese companies to lead construction of around 100 photovoltaic farms. While China’s involvement in such projects is profit-generating, it “will not interfere in the internal politics of the countries it enters into trade agreements with” – in stark contrast to the US’s mode of doing business.

Indeed China is working with countries throughout Latin America on infrastructure projects that are helping them to break out of underdevelopment and enhance regional integration. Recognising the danger this poses to US hegemonic interests, the US is “now engaged in a war to exclude China from many markets” in the region.

The article concludes by calling on readers to raise their voices against the continued hostility towards Cuba and the relentless attacks on its sovereignty.

Bernard Regan is Secretary of the Cuba Solidarity Campaign.

May Day in Cuba is a national holiday marked by huge demonstrations across the country and this year will be no exception.  Over one million Cubans will demonstrate in Havana in the Plaza de la Revolucion led by the trade union movement.

The event will be a positive reaffirmation of the values of the revolution and an expression of Cuba’s determination to resist the pressures of the blockade imposed on the island by successive United States administrations and most recently of course by President Donald Trump.

The blockade is imposed on Cuba despite the United Nations General Assembly voting 32 times consecutively to call for its complete removal. From 1st March 2023 to February 2024 the blockade caused material damages estimated at $5,056,800,000. Just 15 minutes without the blockade would enable Cuba to provide hearing aids for all the children who needed them; 30 minutes blockadeless and all the electrical and conventional wheelchairs needed could be provided. The list goes on and on. It is a totally unjustifiable persecution of the Cuban people.

 In November 2024 the most recent vote recorded 187 countries against the blockade and only two (USA and Israel) voting for its continuance whilst one nation (Moldova) abstained.  Despite this overwhelming vote Trump continues these vindictive policies.  Far from having any negative impact on the world Cuba has displayed an exemplary record of sending medical support to countries across the globe in need of practical solidarity. 

Since 1960, over 600,000 medical professionals have gone to over 160 countries to provide their expertise.  In 2020 it was estimated that there were 30,000 Cuban doctors in 67 countries.  Britain’s population is over 6 times that of Cuba.  Just imagine if Britain had acted with such a selfless sense of solidarity for people across the globe, how many more millions of lives could have been saved and sick and injured treated.

Over the whole period of Cuba’s existence, it has not been possible to put a cigarette paper between the policies of Democrats or Republicans.   Occasionally there have been changes of tack – as when President Obama established diplomatic relations with Cuba but did not remove the most vicious of the legislation that was imposed on the island. 

Trump has never made a secret of his animosity towards Cuba or indeed for that matter towards any nation that asserts its sovereignty.  In 2018 speaking at the United Nations General Assembly he said, “It has been the formal policy of our country since President Monroe (1823) that we reject the interference of foreign nations in this (western) hemisphere and in our own affairs.” It was a clear declaration of intent that he wished to make the Latin American economies subservient to Wall Street’s interests.

On taking office on 20th January 2025 Trump placed Cuba on the list of State Sponsors of Terrorism (SSOT) just 24 hours after his taking office.  President Biden had taken Cuba off the list – but only a week before he was to cease being President.  The appointment by Trump of Marco Rubio as his Secretary of State signalled the President’s clear intention to follow the vicious anti-Cuban policies of his co-Republican.

The SSOT status has been described by some as equivalent to an economic “death sentence”.  It is designed to cut Cuba off from any access to international banking agencies making it extremely difficult, if not impossible to trade, to obtain vital medicines, foodstuffs, materials and equipment critical to the functioning of the island’s economy from other countries worldwide.

Cuba is trying to deal with this for example by reducing its dependency on oil to generate electricity.  It has reached agreements with China, for example, to provide around 100 photovoltaic farms which are currently in the process of being installed.  Whilst some hope that the BRICS group of countries might provide an alternative international currency to rival the almighty dollar that seems unlikely in the short-term and may indeed not come to fruition given the tariff war that the White House is unleashing which may indeed create divisions between China and India for example.

The USA’s tariff wars will continue.  Trump is fearful of China’s influence in Latin America where some 20 countries have already joined the Belt and Road initiative, hence his obsession with the Panama Canal and the renaming of the Gulf of Mexico. However, the opening of the Chancay mega-port in Peru and the much talked about potential alternative of a Nicaraguan “Panama Canal” threaten Washington’s aspitrations for the region. Whilst China will undoubtedly pursue its own economic interests in a pragmatic manner, unlike the USA, it is almost certain, given its track record, that it will not interfere in the internal politics of the countries it enters into trade agreements with.

The tariffs that Washington has imposed on China are a clear indication of the economic war for domination of the continent that is taking place. Like Monroe before him the USA is now engaged in a war to exclude China from many markets across the globe but Latin America is an immediate concern.  The continent holds invaluable resources of rare earth minerals as well as oil in abundance and Washington has already mobilised the Pentagon in this economic conflict.  The current head of the United States Southern Command, Admiral Alvin Holsey, has followed in the footsteps of his predecessor General Laura Richardson, in identifying the economic resources that the continent holds as being of strategic interest to the USA. On 14th January – just a week before Trump was inaugurated – the columnist Bret Stephens wrote in the New York Times a column calling for a USA military intervention to overthrow President Maduro in Venezuela.            

The British government casts its vote against the inhuman blockade of Cuba but does nothing to challenge its punitive affects.  The solidarity campaign with Cuba is as vital as it has ever been. Trump wants to create a unipolar world with Washington and Wall Street at its centre.  Cuba demonstrates that another world is possible – one in which human life is valued and prioritised, in which people can live in dignity and at peace. It is those values which have led to Cuba standing alongside the people of Palestine against tyranny and oppression.  Cuba does not stand alone but we must continue to raise our voices and encourage others to do so to end the unjustifiable assault against its sovereignty which continues to be inflicted on it by successive Presidents of the United States of America.

China helps Cuba fight blackouts, strengthen power grid

Cuba may slowly ease its crippling blackouts and strengthen its electricity grid as it begins building seven solar parks with the first batch of equipment from China.

The Chinese aid will help Cuba’s plan to build 92 solar installations by 2028, adding about 2,000 megawatts to the island’s power grid and help reduce dependence on fossil fuel imports. Once completed, the project will significantly boost Cuba’s strained power system, which currently has a capacity of 7,264 MW.

According to Maribel Aponte-Garcia, an economist and professor at the University of Puerto Rico, Rio Piedras Campus, the solar parks will also contribute to Cuba’s logistical and financial sovereignty by strengthening the country’s logistics capacity in the Greater Caribbean. For example, the Port of Mariel has the potential to be connected into logistics corridors in the China-Russia-Latin America axis, which can help avoid United States-controlled transit points such as the Panama Canal.

“Cuba is much more than an island with an energy crisis. It’s a critical logistics node in the Greater Caribbean, with direct access to maritime routes that connect the Atlantic with the Gulf of Mexico, Central America and South America.”

China, a major global exporter of solar panels, has emerged as a “comrade and brother” to Cuba, reaffirming its commitment to supporting the island’s energy transition, said Ruvislei Gonzalez Saez, a professor at Cuba’s Centre of Research for International Policy.

“Chinese cooperation in installing solar parks is extremely strategic, particularly in the energy sector,” he noted. In 2018, Cuba formally joined the Belt and Road Initiative, and three years later it joined the Belt and Road Energy Partnership, which aims to boost multinational energy cooperation.

The following article was originally published by China Daily.

Cuba may slowly ease its crippling blackouts and strengthen the electricity grid as it begins building seven solar parks with the first batch of equipment from China.

The Chinese aid helps Cuba’s plan to build 92 solar installations by 2028, adding about 2,000 megawatts to the island’s power grid and help reduce dependence on fossil fuel imports. Once completed, the project would significantly boost Cuba’s strained power system, which currently has a capacity of 7,264 MW.

Installation work is set to begin soon in Artemisa, about 50 kilometers west of Havana, where the equipment arrived late last month. Additional solar parks are planned for the provinces of Pinar del Rio, Las Tunas, Holguin, Granma and Guantanamo. More materials from China are expected in the coming months.

“Chinese investment in solar energy in Cuba is a joint commitment to energy sovereignty, South-South cooperation, and the multipolar reconfiguration of global trade and logistics,” said Maribel Aponte-Garcia, an economist and professor at the University of Puerto Rico, Rio Piedras Campus.

The solar parks will also contribute to Cuba’s logistical and financial sovereignty by strengthening the country’s logistics capacity in the Greater Caribbean, she said.

For example, the Port of Mariel has the potential to be connected into logistics corridors in the China-Russia-Latin America axis, which can help avoid United States-controlled transit points such as the Panama Canal.

“Cuba is much more than an island with an energy crisis,” Aponte-Garcia said. “It’s a critical logistics node in the Greater Caribbean, with direct access to maritime routes that connect the Atlantic with the Gulf of Mexico, Central America and South America.”

Over time, the solar park could become a key component of an emerging South-South architecture, in which renewable energy powers technological platforms, ports and autonomous corridors, she added.

China, a major global exporter of solar panels, has emerged as a “comrade and brother” to Cuba, reaffirming its commitment to supporting the island’s energy transition, said Ruvislei Gonzalez Saez, a professor at Cuba’s Center of Research for International Policy.

Last year, China exported enough solar panels globally to generate 235.93 gigawatts of power, up 13 percent year-on-year, according to US renewables research firm InfoLink Consulting.

Gonzalez emphasized the significance of Chinese cooperation in advancing Cuba’s renewable energy sector.

“Chinese cooperation in installing solar parks is extremely strategic, particularly in the energy sector,” he said, adding the effects are not only political and economic but also show how it can improve the quality of life for Cubans.

Aponte-Garcia said China has long been an active partner of Cuba in terms of trade and investment, with participation in projects such as the Mariel Special Development Zone and the energy sector.

In 2018, Cuba formally joined the Belt and Road Initiative, and three years later it joined the Belt and Road Energy Partnership, which aims to boost multinational energy cooperation.

Beijing and Havana have signed several construction and energy deals aimed at supporting cooperation between China and Latin America.

Beyond energy coordination, China also continues to invest in projects linked to the production of medicines, biotechnology and agriculture, Gonzalez said.

Cuba joined the BRICS+ grouping as a partner state, which could drive integration with the bloc. BRICS+ is an intergovernmental organization that includes Brazil, China, India, Russia and South Africa, along with a growing number of countries such as the United Arab Emirates.

Further, an increased presence of Chinese investments in Cuba is expected, though the US blockade against Cuba “can make some economic-financial operations and processes difficult”, Gonzalez said.

China donates 70 tons of equipment to help Cuba restore its electric system

The following article from Brasil de Fato reports on China’s donation of almost 70 tons of power generator parts and accessories to Cuba. Deputy Minister of Foreign Trade and Investment Déborah Rivas said that the donation “reflects the high sensitivity of the Chinese government authorities to Cuba’s needs, and their firm support for Cuba under all circumstances, joining, in a true expression of fraternity, the Cuban government’s efforts to achieve energy sustainability”.

Cuba faces a major energy crisis, largely as a result of the US’s cruel and illegal economic blockade. The article notes: “The import of fuel, like any other good, is hampered by the sanctions that Washington unilaterally imposes on countries that trade with Cuba because any ship that arrives at a Cuban port is sanctioned, which generates staggering prices the island has to pay to import the products it needs.”

China is cooperating with Cuba, under the framework of the Belt and Road Energy Partnership, to construct several new photovoltaic parts, which will allow the island to modernise its energy infrastructure and meet its goal of generating all its energy from renewable sources by 2050.

The People’s Republic of China has donated almost 70 tons of power generator parts and accessories to Cuba, aiming to contribute to the recovery of the Caribbean island’s electricity system.

The materials arrived in the country on Sunday (29) and were received by China’s ambassador to Cuba, Hua Xin, and Cuba’s deputy ministers of Foreign Trade and Investment, Déborah Rivas, and Energy and Mining, Tatiana Amarán.

According to Ambassador Xin, the shipment is part of China’s second assistance package in 2024 to help restore Cuba’s electricity generation capacity to around 400 megawatts (MW). As part of an “emergency project list,” the donations were included to provide Cuba with effective and rapid aid according to what the Chinese government calls “convenience for the most urgent.”

“The next batches are expected to arrive soon by freight, commercial flights or container transportation,” he said.

During the brief ceremony to receive the donations, Deputy Minister Déborah Rivas said that it “reflects the high sensitivity of the Chinese government authorities [to Cuban’s needs] and their firm support for Cuba under all circumstances, joining, in a true expression of fraternity, the Cuban government’s efforts to achieve energy sustainability.”

The deputy minister also stated that the island government estimates that this donation will benefit about 53,200 homes in the country.

The donations come as the Caribbean country is facing a serious energy crisis that has worsened in recent months. This year, Cuba has suffered three total blackouts in the national electricity system, leaving the country completely in the dark. Currently, power cuts are becoming more and more constant, affecting over 40% of the population daily. The situation has seriously damaged economic activity and the population’s quality of life.

### Bloc and energy

The donations are part of agreements signed between Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel and his Chinese counterpart, Xi Jinping, seeking to expand cooperation in strategic initiatives such as energy, transportation, food security and trade.

Cuba’s electricity generation comes from old thermoelectric plants – most of which are more than 30 years old – which require constant maintenance to operate. However, due to the US blockade on the country – considered illegal by most UN countries – Cuba has for decades faced serious financial difficulties in making the necessary investments and maintenance to keep its electricity system running.

The import of fuel, like any other good, is hampered by the sanctions that Washington unilaterally imposes on countries that trade with Cuba because any ship that arrives at a Cuban port is sanctioned, which generates staggering prices the island has to pay to import the products it needs.

In recent months, the Chinese government has donated various components for the installation of photovoltaic parks (renewable energies based on sunlight) on the Caribbean island. The region’s climatic conditions make sunlight the most favorable source of renewable energy for the country.

Currently, more than 95% of the country’s power generation comes from fossil fuels, while only 5% comes from renewable sources. Cuba aims to generate up to 25% of its electric energy from renewable sources over the next five years. By 2050, the aim is to cover the entire energy matrix with electricity generation based on renewable energy sources.

In mid-December, the Chinese government and Cuba officially announced the construction of several photovoltaic parks on the Caribbean island, with funds donated by the Asian country. It is estimated that these photovoltaic parks could save up to seven million US dollars.

10th Asia-Pacific Regional Conference of Solidarity with Cuba held in Beijing

The 10th Asia-Pacific Regional Conference of Solidarity with Cuba was held in Beijing, October 29-30. It was the first time for the conference to be held in China. Hosted by the Chinese People’s Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries (CPAFFC), it also formed part of the celebrations marking the association’s 70th founding anniversary.

The conference called on the United States to lift its crippling blockade on the socialist island as well as its designation as a supposed “terrorist state”. Sun Yi, Deputy Director of the Department of Latin American and Caribbean Affairs at China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said in his address:

“These measures have profound consequences for the people and affect all sectors, including the most sensitive ones, such as health, food and energy.”

Opening the conference, Fernando González, President of the Cuban Institute for Friendship with the Peoples (ICAP), and one of the ‘Cuban Five’ political prisoners held in a US jail from 1998-2014, thanked delegates for all their work in support of Cuba. He underlined the historic ties between China and Cuba, which date back 177 years to the first arrival of Chinese immigrants. Cuba was the first Latin American country to establish diplomatic relations with the People’s Republic of China, following the socialist revolution led by Fidel Castro and Che Guevara, and today China is Cuba’s largest export market.

Dong Huy Cuong, Vice-President of the Vietnam Union of Friendship Organisations (VUOFO), also said that their two countries have close bonds, having “shared the experience of facing a powerful adversary.” Cuba, “inspired others to stand up for national independence. We will never forget Fidel Castro,” who during Vietnam’s ultimately successful struggle against US imperialism declared, “for Vietnam, Cuba is ready to shed its blood,” and was the only head of state ever to visit the liberated areas in south Vietnam.

Senior delegates also attended from old friends of Cuba, Laos and Vietnam, while the largest number of delegates from outside China came from Japan. In all, around 70 delegates from 16 countries and 36 organisations in the Asia-Pacific region participated in the conference.

Speaking to the Cuban news agency Prensa Latina, Edwin De la Cruz, President of the Philippines-Cuba Friendship Society, highlighted the importance of an international movement in support of the Cuban people. “We cannot depend only on governments, it must be a movement of the people, in the streets, in the communities and in the workplaces, because that is the true strength of the international movement against imperialism and all forms of unilateral sanctions.” He also called for unity between countries such as Venezuela, Iran, Nicaragua and the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea.

The meeting also included exchanges of criteria on the best practices of parliamentary groups in solidarity with Cuba, cooperation in support of economic development and the practice of multilateralism to build a community with a shared future.

Among the instances of Cuban international solidarity for which delegates expressed their gratitude were the provision of vaccines and medicines to Cambodia particularly during the COVID pandemic, a literacy program for First Nations in Australia and earthquake relief in Nepal.

The final declaration of the conference declared: “All of us here consider it imperative to strengthen unity, support and cooperation in building a peaceful world with a shared future among our nations. We therefore declare our joint commitment to… support and defend the Cuban Revolution at every opportunity in all possible situations, in our countries, as a demonstration of respect, admiration and solidarity with the dignified Cuban people, starting with practical actions.”

It also called for “an immediate and lasting ceasefire in the Gaza Strip of Palestine, an end to actions that escalate tensions, and measures to alleviate the humanitarian disaster in Gaza,” and said in conclusion:

“We express our special congratulations and deepest thanks to the Chinese People’s Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries (CPAFFC) for the warm hospitality and excellent organisation for the 10th Asia-Pacific Regional Meeting of Solidarity with Cuba. In the year of the commemoration of the 70th Anniversary of the founding of CPAFFC, we would like to extend our best wishes to the Chinese people engaged in national defence and construction.”

We reprint below the full text of the final declaration. It was originally published on the website of the Cuban Foreign Ministry. A report of the meeting was also published by People’s Democracy, the newspaper of the Communist Party of India (Marxist).

The Movement of Solidarity with Cuba of the Asia-Pacific region has held its 10th Regional Meeting of Solidarity with Cuba from 29 to 30 October 2024, in Beijing, People’s Republic of China, with the participation of 70 delegates from 16 countries, representing 36 organizations and groups of friendship and solidarity.

During the discussion sessions, delegates unanimously supported the international demand for an end to the unjust and criminal policy of blockade imposed by the United States Government on the Republic of Cuba for more than six decades, and demanded that Cuba be removed from the unilateral list of countries that sponsor terrorism, since  this false accusation represents the main obstacle to the economic and social development of the Cuban people.

All of us here consider it imperative to strengthen unity, support and cooperation in building a peaceful world with a shared future among our nations. We therefore declare our joint commitment to:

  1. To support and defend the Cuban Revolution at every opportunity in all possible situations, in our countries, as a demonstration of respect, admiration and solidarity with the dignified Cuban people, starting with practical actions.
  2. To demand the immediate permanent, total and unconditional lifting of the economic, financial and commercial blockade, as well as the removal of Cuba from the list of countries allegedly sponsoring terrorism, a measure which increases trade restrictions, hampers economic and social development, creates hardships for the Cuban people and harms the interests of other countries and their citizens who seek relations with Cuba, in flagrant violation of the Charter of the United Nations and international law.
  3. To continue to defend international peace and security, and the integrity and sovereignty of our nations. Cuba, despite having part of its territory illegally occupied with a foreign military base, is the guarantor of world peace and of the Latin American and Caribbean region which was proclaimed a Zone of Peace in Havana ten years ago.
  4. To promote actions of solidarity and cooperation among our organizations and peoples that will make it possible to implement development strategies in those countries that need them most, providing resources and equal opportunities for the shared future that we set out following the example of many nations in the region.
  5. To increase support for the Cuban people in order to benefit health, education and the development of food production systems.
  6. To promote the work of friendship with the new generations, as faithful followers of the dreams of internationalism, collaboration and solidarity among peoples, enhancing the role of graduates of educational institutions in Cuba.
  7. To organize activities during 2024 and 2025 to accompany ICAP in the international events it convenes and organizes, inside and outside Cuba, with the aim of honoring its mission of solidarity as it reaches its 65th anniversary; as well as disseminating the thought and historical legacy of Commander Fidel, the political and ethical paradigm of the peoples of the world in the defense of life and friendship, on the centenary of his birth. 
  8. To call for an immediate and lasting ceasefire in the Gaza Strip of Palestine, an end to actions that escalate tensions, and measures to alleviate the humanitarian disaster in Gaza.

We express our special congratulations and deepest thanks to the Chinese People’s Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries ( CPAFFC) for the warm hospitality and excellent organization for the 10th Asia-Pacific Regional Meeting of Solidarity with Cuba. In the year of the commemoration of the 70th Anniversary of the founding of CPAFFC, we would like to extend our best wishes to the Chinese People engaged in national defense and construction.

China and Cuba continue deepening their special, friendly bilateral relations

The close fraternal relations between China and Cuba were underlined and reinforced by the November 6-12 China visit of Esteban Lazo Hernandez, the President of Cuba’s National Assembly of People’s Power, at the invitation of his counterpart, Zhao Leji, Chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress (NPC).

The two men met on November 7.

Noting that next year marks the 65th anniversary of diplomatic ties between China and Cuba, Zhao said that China is willing to work with Cuba to implement the important consensus reached by the two countries’ heads of state, continue deepening the special, friendly bilateral relations in the new era, and promote the steady, far-reaching construction of a community with a shared future between China and Cuba. He added that China has always placed Cuba in a special position in its external relations and is willing to deepen political mutual trust and strategic coordination with the country.

Zhao thanked Cuba for its firm support on the Taiwan question and other issues concerning China’s core interests. He said China supports Cuba firmly in its just struggle against sanctions, blockades and external interference, and will continue providing Cuba with assistance and support within its own capacity. China is ready to strengthen practical cooperation with Cuba in various fields, make good use of coordination mechanisms under the Belt and Road, and deepen cooperation in such fields as agriculture, tourism, sports, biotechnology, clean energy, and information and communication.

He called on both sides to strengthen coordination and speak with one voice on safeguarding each other’s core and major interests, and to undertake dialogue and exchange in the areas of socialist-democracy and rule-of-law development, poverty reduction and public security. The two nations should also promote exchange in the fields of education, culture, youth and media, and consolidate the popular public support for China-Cuba friendship.

Noting that China’s rapid development is a growing force for world peace and has brought development opportunities to Latin America and the Caribbean, Lazo said the National Assembly of People’s Power is willing to strengthen its friendly exchange with China’s NPC, advance exchange and mutual learning in rule-of-law development and other areas, and give play to the positive role of legislative bodies in enhancing the bilateral friendship.

On the same day, Lazo also met with Wang Huning, Chairman of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) National Committee.

Wang said that China is willing to work with Cuba to implement the important consensus reached by the two heads of state and jointly build a China-Cuba community with a shared future.

Lazo congratulated the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China and the success of the third plenary session of the 20th Communist Party of China Central Committee, noting that Cuba firmly upholds the one-China principle and firmly supports China’s core interests and its major concerns.

Prior to his China visit, Lazo visited the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, November 2-3, and the Lao People’s Democratic Republic, November 3-6.

The following articles were originally published by the Xinhua News Agency.

China, Cuba vow to strengthen exchange in rule-of-law development

BEIJING, Nov. 7 (Xinhua) — Zhao Leji, China’s top legislator, and Esteban Lazo Hernandez, president of Cuba’s National Assembly of People’s Power, held talks on Thursday in Beijing, vowing to strengthen exchange in the area of rule-of-law development.

Noting that next year marks the 65th anniversary of diplomatic ties between China and Cuba, Zhao, chairman of the National People’s Congress (NPC) Standing Committee, said China is willing to work with Cuba to implement the important consensus reached by the two countries’ heads of state, continue deepening the special, friendly bilateral relations in the new era, and promote the steady, far-reaching construction of a community with a shared future between China and Cuba.

Zhao said China has always placed Cuba in a special position in its external relations, and is willing to deepen political mutual trust and strategic coordination with the country.

Zhao thanked Cuba for its firm support on the Taiwan question and other issues concerning China’s core interests. He said China supports Cuba firmly in its just struggle against sanctions, blockades and external interference, and will continue providing Cuba with assistance and support within its own capacity.

China is ready to strengthen practical cooperation with Cuba in various fields, make good use of coordination mechanisms under the Belt and Road, and deepen cooperation in such fields as agriculture, tourism, sports, biotechnology, clean energy, and information and communication, Zhao said. China is also prepared to translate the high-level political mutual trust between the two countries into further practical cooperation results, he added.

The NPC of China is willing to work with Cuba’s National Assembly of People’s Power to implement the cooperation agreement between the legislative bodies of the two countries, he said. He called on both sides to strengthen coordination and speak with one voice on safeguarding each other’s core and major interests, and to undertake dialogue and exchange in the areas of socialist-democracy and rule-of-law development, poverty reduction and public security. The two nations should also promote exchange in the fields of education, culture, youth and media, and consolidate the popular public support for the China-Cuba friendship.

Zhao also said that the legislatures of the two countries can promote the exchange of experience in strengthening key legislation areas and improving the quality of legislation.

Lazo said that Cuba adheres firmly to the one-China principle, supports the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative and the Global Civilization Initiative, and is willing to learn from China’s experience in reform and opening-up, as well as in party construction.

Noting that China’s rapid development is a growing force for world peace and has brought development opportunities to Latin America and the Caribbean, Lazo said the National Assembly of People’s Power is willing to strengthen its friendly exchange with China’s NPC, advance exchange and mutual learning in rule-of-law development and other areas, and give play to the positive role of legislative bodies in enhancing bilateral friendships.

Zhao and Lazo signed a cooperation agreement between their two legislative bodies following their meeting.

China’s top political advisor meets president of Cuba’s National Assembly of People’s Power

BEIJING, Nov. 7 (Xinhua) — China’s top political advisor Wang Huning met with Esteban Lazo Hernandez, president of Cuba’s National Assembly of People’s Power, in Beijing on Thursday.

Wang, chairman of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) National Committee, said China is willing to work with Cuba to implement the important consensus reached by the two heads of state and jointly build a China-Cuba community with a shared future.

The CPPCC National Committee is ready to strengthen exchanges and cooperation with Cuba and push the friendly exchanges and cooperation between the two parties, countries and peoples to a higher level, Wang said.

Lazo congratulated the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China and the success of the third plenary session of the 20th Communist Party of China Central Committee, noting that Cuba firmly upholds the one-China principle and firmly supports China’s core interests and its major concerns.

Cuba stands ready to work with China to implement the important consensus reached by the two heads of state, strengthen bilateral exchanges and cooperation in various fields such as economy and party building, jointly build a community with a shared future between the two sides, and safeguard international fairness and justice, Lazo said.

China and Cuba: Advancing the socialist cause and building a shared future

The close fraternal friendship between China and Cuba was reaffirmed in a recent visit of a delegation of the Communist Party of China (CPC) to the socialist Caribbean island, led Li Shulei, member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and head of the Central Committee’s Publicity Department.  The delegation was in Cuba to attend the sixth joint theoretical seminar between the CPC and the Communist Party of Cuba (PCC), which was held on October 23, with the theme, “Advancing the Socialist Cause and Building a Shared Future.”

The previous day, Li had met with Miguel Díaz-Canel Bermúdez, First Secretary of the Central Committee of the PCC and President of the Republic of Cuba.

Li said China is ready to work with Cuba to implement the important consensus reached by the two top leaders, deepen traditional ties, expand friendly cooperation, and support each other on issues concerning each other’s core interests, while collaborating closely on international and regional issues and jointly building a China-Cuba community with a shared future.

Having received the greetings of his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping, Díaz-Canel asked Li to convey his best wishes to Xi and spoke highly of the special friendship between the two parties and countries.

Li also met with Esteban Lazo Hernández, a member of the Political Bureau of the PCC Central Committee, President of Cuba’s National Assembly of People’s Power and President of Cuba’s Council of State, held talks with Roberto Morales Ojeda, member of the Political Bureau and Secretary of Organisation of the PCC Central Committee, and visited General Raúl Castro, leader of the Cuban Revolution.

Granma, the official organ of the PCC, quoted Díaz-Canel as telling Li, with unmistakable reference to the severe economic crisis currently being faced by Cuba, characterised not least by repeated nationwide power outages: “This visit, at the moment Cuba is living, is one more proof of the indestructible bonds of friendship that exist between our peoples, parties and governments.”

He added that he was looking forward to meeting again with Xi Jinping at the upcoming BRICS Summit in the Russian city of Kazan. However, Díaz-Canel later cancelled his visit due to the domestic economic situation.

Similar sentiments to those expressed by Díaz-Canel were echoed by Esteban Lazo Hernández, who told the Chinese comrades:

“A visit, in the midst of this situation, is one more expression of the deep ties of unbreakable friendship that exist between the Communist Party of China and that of Cuba and, likewise, between our peoples.”

He further underlined the relevance of the seminar held in Havana, saying: “I want to reiterate the importance and usefulness of the theoretical seminars to exchange experiences on the construction of socialism on the tenth anniversary of the beginning of this inter-party practice.”

The following articles were originally published by the Xinhua News Agency and Granma.

Cuba’s top leader meets senior Chinese official

HAVANA, Oct. 25 (Xinhua) — Miguel Diaz-Canel, first secretary of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Cuba (PCC) and Cuban president, met on Tuesday with Li Shulei, member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and head of the Publicity Department of the CPC Central Committee, who led a CPC delegation to Cuba and attended the sixth theoretical seminar of the two parties.

Li conveyed warm greetings from Chinese President Xi Jinping, also general secretary of the CPC Central Committee, to Diaz-Canel, noting that Xi and Diaz-Canel have reached important consensuses on the development of party-to-party and state-to-state relations, charting a clear course for the longstanding friendship between China and Cuba.

Continue reading China and Cuba: Advancing the socialist cause and building a shared future

Cuban ambassador: China has been a determined force in promoting global solidarity

We are very pleased to publish below the text of the speech given by Her Excellency Ismara M. Vargas Walter, Cuban Ambassador to the UK, at the conference held in London on Saturday 28 September to mark the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China.

Comrade Vargas Walter gave an overview of the history of solidarity between China and Cuba, noting that, in 1960, Cuba became the first country in Latin America to recognise the People’s Republic of China. In recent times, “China’s support for Cuba in overcoming the devastating effects of the US blockade has been invaluable”, while “Cuba has stood with China in international forums, defending its sovereignty and promoting the vision of a multipolar world in which the nations of the global South can thrive free from the chains of imperialism”.

Vargas Walter went on to describe the emerging multipolar world order, of which China is a powerful advocate. “The struggle for multipolarity is the struggle for a world in which no single nation or bloc of nations can dictate the fate of others”.

She concluded her remarks with a powerful call for revolutionary internationalism:

The friendship between our nations is a testament to what can be achieved when we stand together in solidarity. It is a reminder that internationalism is our greatest strength, no matter how small or isolated a country may seem. Let’s continue to deepen our ties, strengthen our solidarity and continue the struggle for a world free of exploitation and imperialism.

Comrades and friends,

It is a great honour to stand before you today as we celebrate the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China. We commemorate not only the rise of a great nation but also the enduring legacy of socialist internationalism of which Cuba and China have been proud torchbearers for decades.

When the People’s Republic of China was founded in 1949, it marked the triumph of the indomitable spirit of the Chinese people in their struggle for sovereignty, dignity and a future free from colonialism and imperialist domination. This victory impacted far beyond China’s borders, inspiring revolutionary movements in Asia, Africa, Latin America and beyond. It was a beacon of hope for the oppressed, demonstrating that unity, determination and a shared socialist vision can change the course of history.

In 1959, ten years after China’s victory, the Cuban Revolution triumphed under the leadership of our Commander-in-Chief Fidel Castro. Our revolution was a direct challenge to U.S. imperialism in the heart of Latin America. In 1960, Cuba became the first country in Latin America to recognize the People’s Republic of China, cementing a partnership based on revolutionary solidarity. Despite our geographical distance, Cuba and China were united in a common struggle – the struggle against exploitation, foreign domination and the capitalist system that seeks to divide and subjugate the people of the global South.

Our two nations, one in the Caribbean and the other in East Asia have shown that internationalism is not just an ideal – it is a necessity. In the face of endless provocations, economic blockades and attempts to isolate our revolutions, both Cuba and China have stood tall, defending the dignity of our people and advancing on the road to socialism.

The bonds between Cuba and China have grown stronger over the decades, nourished by mutual respect, and shared principles. Since the early days of our revolutions, China has extended a hand of friendship to Cuba. China’s support for Cuba in overcoming the devastating effects of the U.S. blockade has been invaluable. Cuba has stood with China in international forums, defending its sovereignty and promoting the vision of a multipolar world in which the nations of the global South can thrive free from the chains of imperialism.

However, despite the indomitable spirit of our people, we continue to face unjust actions aimed at undermining our sovereignty. Cuba continues to be arbitrarily listed as a state sponsor of terrorism, a designation that is not only baseless but deeply unfair. This false narrative is part of the broader strategy of imperialist aggression aimed at destabilizing and suffocating our economy. The real intention behind this label is to cause extraordinary damage to Cuba’s development, just as the criminal blockade has done for more than six decades. To be clear, this label has nothing to do with terrorism and everything to do with punishing Cuba for daring to build socialism on its own terms.

China has been a determined force in promoting global solidarity. From its Belt and Road Initiative, which strengthens economic ties and infrastructure development in the Global South, to its investments in sustainable development, China has shown that internationalism is not a relic of the past, but a living principle shaping the future.

At the heart of the struggle for a more just and equitable world is the rise of the Global South. Countries like Cuba, Venezuela and China, along with many others in Latin America, Africa, and Asia, are asserting their right to determine their own future, free from the grip of foreign interference. The struggle for multipolarity is the struggle for a world in which no single nation or bloc of nations can dictate the fate of others.

And China has been a powerful advocate of this new multipolar world order. Its policy of peaceful development and win-win cooperation stands in sharp contrast to the coercion and militarism that define imperialist relations. China’s partnerships with nations in the Global South are based on the principles of mutual respect, non-interference and solidarity – principles that Cuba wholeheartedly embraces.

As we celebrate the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China, we must remember that our struggle is far from over. The forces of imperialism are relentless, but so too is our determination to defend the sovereignty of our nations, the dignity of our peoples and the road to socialism that we have chosen.

The friendship between our nations is a testament to what can be achieved when we stand together in solidarity. It is a reminder that internationalism is our greatest strength, no matter how small or isolated a country may seem. Let’s continue to deepen our ties, strengthen our solidarity and continue the struggle for a world free of exploitation and imperialism.

Until victory always!

Thank you so much.

China and Cuba: good friends, good comrades and good brothers

Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez Parrilla visited China in the first week of June as the Special Envoy of President Miguel Díaz-Canel.

Meeting his Cuban counterpart on June 6, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said that China and Cuba are good friends who trust each other, good comrades who share the same vision, and good brothers who share weal and woe, adding that the two sides reached an important consensus on jointly building a China-Cuba community with a shared future. China speaks highly of Cuba’s adherence to truth and defiance of power, and appreciates that Cuba always stands up for China’s legitimate stance on international multilateral occasions. China firmly supports Cuba in defending its national sovereignty and opposing foreign interference and will continue to resolutely oppose the US’s unreasonable blockade against Cuba.

Wang added that China is willing to work with Cuba to implement the consensus reached by the two heads of state, develop the special friendly relations between the two parties and two countries, and contribute to promoting the cause of world socialism and safeguarding world peace.

Rodriguez said that Cuba sincerely thanks China for its strong support in resisting the unreasonable blockade and interference of the United States and overcoming temporary difficulties in economic operation and will continue to firmly abide by the one-China principle.

Cuba is willing to work with China to build a Cuba-China community with a shared future, give top priority to the joint construction of the Belt and Road, and safeguard the sovereignty and independence of developing countries as well as the cause of socialism.

The following day, Rodriguez had separate meetings with Li Xi, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, who is also Secretary of the CPC Central Commission for Discipline Inspection, and with Liu Jianchao, Minister of the International Department of the CPC Central Committee (IDCPC).

Noting that China and Cuba are good friends, good comrades, and good brothers who stick together through thick and thin, Li said China will continue to support Cuba in pursuing a socialist path that suits its national conditions and defending its national sovereignty and dignity.

Rodriguez expressed gratitude for China’s strong support for the just cause of Cuba, saying Cuba will firmly abide by the one-China principle, steadfastly deepen friendship with China and resolutely defend the socialist cause.

Liu Jianchao said that under the strong leadership of the Communist Party of Cuba, the Cuban people have firm convictions, are not afraid of power, are indomitable, and resolutely safeguard the interests of the country and the nation. The Communist Party of China is ready to work with the Communist Party of Cuba to implement the important consensus reached by the top leaders of the two parties and two countries, strengthen exchanges at all levels, along with mutual learning of experience in governance, promote cooperation in areas such as people’s livelihood, give full play to the political leading role of inter-party relations, advance their respective socialist construction, and promote greater development of China-Cuba relations.

Rodriguez said that Cuba and China share common ideals and beliefs, and both adhere to the socialist road. The Cuban party and government have placed the development of relations with China and the Communist Party of China in the first place in their foreign relations, thanked the Chinese side for its valuable assistance and strong support for Cuba’s economic and social development, and hoped to strengthen cooperation with China in agriculture, renewable energy, investment, finance, and other fields. We firmly believe, he added, that with the support of China and international friendly forces, Cuba will be able to continue to advance on the road of socialist construction. Cuba is ready to work with China to promote the building of a just and equitable international order.

On June 12, Li Xi also met with a delegation of the Communist Party of Cuba (PCC) led by Gladys Martinez Verdecia, member of the Politburo of the Central Committee of the PCC and First Secretary of its Artemisa Provincial Party Committee. He said that China and Cuba are both socialist countries led by communist parties and share common ideals and convictions.

Martinez expressed willingness to work with the CPC to implement the consensus reached by the top leaders of the two parties and countries, deepen the exchange of experience on party and state governance, promote practical cooperation in agriculture and other fields, and push for greater development of China-Cuba relations. The following articles were originally published by the Xinhua News Agency and on the website of the IDCPC. The article from the IDCPC was published in Chinese and has been machine translated and subedited by us.

Chinese FM holds talks with Cuban president’s special envoy

BEIJING, June 6 (Xinhua) — Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi held talks with Special Envoy of Cuban President and Minister of Foreign Affairs Bruno Rodriguez Parrilla, on Thursday in Beijing.

Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, said that China and Cuba are good friends who trust each other, good comrades who share the same vision, and good brothers who share weal and woe, adding that the two sides reached an important consensus on jointly building a China-Cuba community with a shared future.

Continue reading China and Cuba: good friends, good comrades and good brothers

China continues to strengthen its relations with socialist Cuba in practical ways

China is continuing to strengthen its relations with socialist Cuba in practical ways. 

On April 8, Radio Havana reported that: “The advance of a rice donation and the completion, with Chinese help, of the deepest oil well ever drilled in Cuba, illustrated in recent weeks the scope and relevance of cooperation between the two countries.”

The Cuban oil industry, it added, had reported the completion of the 8,477-meter well with the assistance of the Chinese company Gran Muralla.

The Chinese donation of rice, to help alleviate current food shortages on the island, was complemented by steps to increase cooperation in the fields of agri-food, biotechnology, transportation, and communications industries.

Meanwhile, Air China is to resume direct flights to Cuba from May 17. The flights were suspended during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Following Air China’s move, on May 4, the Cuban government announced that Chinese citizens would no longer require a visa to visit Cuba. The Chinese travel platform Ctrip reported that online searches for travel to Cuba surged by 40 percent within half an hour of the announcement.

It has also been announced that China will be the guest country of honour at the 2025 Cuban Tourism Festival.

Song Wei, a professor with the School of International Relations and Diplomacy at Beijing Foreign Studies University, told the Global Times that the resumption of direct flights will facilitate stronger connections between Cuba and the rest of the world, enhance its trade relations, and contribute to consolidating its development basis. It also helps mitigate the impact of the decades-long US embargo and enhances Cuba’s external economic ties in opposition to hegemony and unilateral sanctions.

She added that how to free themselves from the economic hegemony of the US and to seek more development partnerships are particularly important questions for Latin American countries, which is also the reason why Latin America attaches great importance to developing relations with China.

The following articles were first published by Radio Havana and Global Times.

China’s helping hand

The advance of a rice donation and the completion, with Chinese help, of the deepest oil well ever drilled in Cuba, illustrated in recent weeks the scope and relevance of cooperation between the two countries.

The Cuban oil industry reported with satisfaction the completion of the 8,477-meter well with the assistance of the Chinese company Gran Muralla.

More recent was the visit to Havana of Luo Zhaohui, president of China’s International Cooperation Agency for Development, when a donation of rice was made and memorandums of understanding were signed in the agri-food, biotechnology, transportation and communications industries.

The stay of the illustrious visitor was described by the host government as significant and a reflection of the consensus reached by the presidents of both countries, Xi Jinping and Miguel Díaz-Canel, who have met several times.

The most recent agreements and other previous ones are part of the course of relations that stand out for their special nuance.

China understands and cooperates with Cuba in pressing circumstances for the latter, due to the tightening of the U.S. blockade and the inclusion of the Caribbean country in a list that Washington unilaterally points out as sponsors of terrorism.

Now, if Beijing’s gestures and actions towards Havana are relevant and comprehensive, so are the prospects for exchanges.

Continue reading China continues to strengthen its relations with socialist Cuba in practical ways

China and Cuba working to strengthen mutually beneficial cooperation and promote socialist development

Liu Jianchao, Minister of the International Department of the Communist Party of China (IDCPC), met with Ludmila Alamo, Deputy Chief of the Ideological Department of the Communist Party of Cuba, on April 23, during her visit to China.

Alamo said the Cuban side sincerely thanks China for its strong support and selfless help to overcome economic and social challenges and promote the cause of socialism in Cuba over the years. The Communist Party of Cuba cherishes its friendly relations with the CPC and is willing to increase high-level exchanges between the two Parties, strengthen exchanges and cooperation in ideological and other fields, and create a favourable environment of public opinion for promoting the socialist causes of both countries.

The following report was originally published on the IDCPC website.

Liu Jianchao, Minister of the International Department of the CPC Central Committee, met here today with Ludmila Alamo, Deputy Chief of the Ideological Department of the Communist Party of Cuba.

Liu said, in recent years, General Secretary Xi Jinping and First Secretary Miguel Mario Díaz-Canel Bermúdez have maintained close communication, injecting strong impetus into the development of China-Cuba relations in the new era. The Chinese side is ready to work with the Cuban side to implement the important consensus reached by the top leaders of the two Parties and countries, strengthen mutually beneficial cooperation in various fields and promote the development of respective socialist causes. The CPC is willing to deepen institutionalized exchanges and cooperation with the Communist Party of Cuba, strengthen mutual learning on party building and state governance, and contribute to jointly building a China-Cuba community with a shared future in the new era.  

Alamo said, the Cuban side sincerely thanks China for its strong support and selfless help to overcome economic and social challenges and promote the cause of socialism in Cuba over the years. The Cuban side firmly upholds the one-China principle, supports China’s great cause of national reunification and opposes external interference in China’s internal affairs. The Communist Party of Cuba cherishes its friendly relations with the CPC and is willing to increase high-level exchanges between the two Parties, strengthen exchanges and cooperation in ideological and other fields, and create a favorable environment of public opinion for promoting the socialist causes of both countries. 

China’s assistance to Cuba a part of global opposition to hegemony

The following article from Global Times reports on the arrival of the first batch of emergency food aid from the Chinese government to Cuba, which assistance “demonstrates China’s unwavering support for Cuba”.

The report notes that the main causes of Cuba’s food shortages are the US’s criminal blockade, along with the sharp rise in global food prices resulting from NATO’s ongoing proxy war in Ukraine.

The author reiterates China’s firm stance against the blockade, which “severely harms the Cuban ordinary people’s right to survival and development,” and which is imposed because the “Cuban Government and people have never succumbed to the unilateralism and hegemony of the US, and despite the enormous pressure and losses caused by the embargo, Cuba has remained actively committed to promoting global solidarity and international cooperation.”

China’s aid, meanwhile, “is not merely a diplomatic gesture but a substantial contribution to Cuba’s healthcare and food security amid its economic struggles”, and more generally, China’s support for Cuba is “an essential part of the global opposition to hegemony and the effort to establish a fairer, more rational and more inclusive international order.”

On April 3, local time, the first batch of emergency food aid from the Chinese government arrived at José Martí International Airport in Havana. Luo Zhaohui, the director of the China International Development Cooperation Agency, stated at the airport, “The Chinese government is proud of and empathetic toward every progress and every challenge our Cuban friends face. Today’s assistance is a symbol of the friendliness of the Chinese people.”

China’s timely assistance once again clearly demonstrates its unwavering support for Cuba in overcoming food shortages and maintaining social stability.

Due to the Russia-Ukraine conflict and climate change, global food prices have sharply risen over the past two years, leading to severe food shortages in some countries and regions. In last year’s report, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres wrote, “Over 2.5 billion people are now facing severe hunger, with some on the brink of starvation. This is unacceptable.”

Cuba, reliant on food imports, has been doubly hit. Another blow comes from the long-standing sanctions imposed by the US, severely restricting Cuba’s foreign trade and regular access to external food supplies and corresponding agricultural equipment.

The embargo on Cuba is a remnant of the Cold War period and has garnered significant opposition. It has been widely criticized by the global community, as shown by yearly resolutions at the United Nations General Assembly urging its termination since 1992.

The Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC) cites staggering losses for Cuba, amounting to billions of dollars annually due to the embargo, which significantly hampers its agricultural productivity and poses a severe threat to food security. The US blockade severely harms the Cuban ordinary people’s right to survival and development.

China’s assistance to Cuba, including the delivery of significant amounts of medical equipment and food such as rice, highlights Beijing’s practical steps to support the Cuban people.

This aid is not merely a diplomatic gesture but a substantial contribution to Cuba’s healthcare and food security amid its economic struggles exacerbated by the embargo and support for the Cuban people’s fight against hegemony. In this context, China’s long-standing support for Cuba represents global public opinion against hegemonism.

The Cuban Government and people have never succumbed to the unilateralism and hegemony of the US, and despite the enormous pressure and losses caused by the embargo, Cuba has remained actively committed to promoting global solidarity and international cooperation. The latest news shows that the Cuban government has secured supply of key subsidized food rations by urgently coordinating resources from all sides, including foreign aid, etc. The Cuban government is also seeking to repair food shortages through efforts to revive the tourism industry, earn more foreign exchange and upgrade agricultural development.

The bilateral relations between China and Cuba strengthened under the “Belt and Road” initiative, have facilitated deepened economic and trade exchanges. This cooperation spans various sectors, bringing tangible benefits to the people of both nations and earning the appreciation of many Latin American countries, highlighting the potential of international solidarity in the face of unilateral sanctions.

As the political landscape in Latin America and the Caribbean undergoes a new round of profound adjustments, the narrative that views Latin America as the US “backyard” is outdated and undermines the sovereignty and autonomy of the countries within the region.

In recent years, Latin American countries like Brazil have been more actively supporting Cuba’s economic development and openly opposing the unilateral sanctions imposed by the US. This reflects the countries’ growing awareness of autonomous development within the region and promotes the growing consensus on achieving more equitable global governance and joint development.

The strengthening of Latin American countries’ awareness of autonomous development also makes Washington’s attempts to create rifts between China and Latin American countries and force these countries to choose sides increasingly difficult to advance.

China firmly supports the Cuban people’s just struggle to defend national sovereignty and oppose foreign interference and blockade. The wrongful practices of a few countries that arbitrarily impose unilateral sanctions cut off development aid, and freeze the legitimate assets of other countries must be corrected. China supports the termination of the economic, commercial and financial blockade against Cuba.

China’s support and assistance to Cuba are an essential part of the global opposition to hegemony and the effort to establish a fairer, more rational and more inclusive international order.

Prime Minister Manuel Marrero: Cuba has much to learn from the Chinese experience

In this episode of the CGTN interview series Leaders Talk, Zou Yun speaks with Cuban Prime Minister Manuel Marrero, who was primarily in China to attend the sixth China International Import Expo, which was held in Shanghai between November 5-10, 2023. It was his first China visit since his assumption of office and he also visited Beijing and Zhejiang province. Marrero previously served as Cuba’s Minister of Tourism for 16 years.

Marrero welcomed the open and inclusive spirit of the expo, the only one of its kind in the world, providing both the developed countries and those of the Global South with opportunities to promote their products and services. Cuba had particularly displayed its rum, coffee and seafood this time. 

He also acclaimed the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), describing it as the pinnacle of China’s global initiatives. President Xi Jinping’s considerations, the Cuban Prime Minister observed, go well beyond China. They are for prosperity and development worldwide. 

Thanks to China, and the Communist Party of China, many forgotten and exploited countries now have opportunities to acquire technology and development experiences. 

He was particularly moved by his meeting with President Xi Jinping. Cuba and China, Marrero said, share years of a traditional friendship and they face many similar situations. Cuba has much to learn from the Chinese experience, aligning it to their national realities, particularly, for example in terms of attracting foreign investment despite the US blockade. 

Speaking of the impact of the 60 plus years US blockade of the socialist island, he notes Raúl Castro’s constant reminder that those responsible are the US government, not the US people, towards whom the Cuban people always maintain a positive and friendly standpoint. 

The full video of the interview is embedded below.

Xi Jinping meets with Cuban and Serbian PMs

Chinese President Xi Jinping recently met with a number of foreign leaders who came to China to attend the Sixth China International Import Expo (CIIE), held in Shanghai.

On November 6, President Xi met with Cuban Prime Minister Manuel Marrero Cruz. Noting that China and Cuba are good friends, good comrades, and good brothers, Xi said that under the guidance and cultivation of the two countries’ leaders, China and Cuba have worked hand in hand on the path of building socialism with their own characteristics, supported each other on issues concerning each other’s core interests, and cooperated closely on international and regional issues, thus forging an unbreakable bond of trust and friendship.

Xi added that China viewed and developed the special friendly relations between the two parties and countries from a strategic and overall perspective, adhered to the policy of long-term friendship between China and Cuba, and was willing to continue to deepen political mutual trust and strategic coordination with Cuba and carry out theoretical discussions and experience exchanges on party and state governance.

“China will continue to firmly support the Cuban people in opposing foreign interference and blockades and safeguarding national sovereignty and dignity,” he said, and went on to note that Cuba successfully hosted the summit of the Group of 77 and China in September this year, making important contributions to promoting solidarity and cooperation among developing countries. China is willing to work with Cuba to continue to jointly safeguard the sovereignty, security, and development interests of developing countries.

While conveying cordial greetings from Comrade Raul Castro and Cuban President and Communist Party leader Miguel Diaz-Canel, Marrero expressed his pleasure to attend the 6th CIIE in China. He said through this visit, he had learned more deeply about the great achievements China had made in its development, adding that President Xi’s important thoughts on governance are of great inspiration and reference to Cuba and the world.

On the same day, President Xi also met with Serbian Prime Minister Ana Brnabic. The Chinese leader said that Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic’s attendance at the third Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation in China and Brnabic’s attendance at the sixth China International Import Expo demonstrated Serbia’s sincere friendship with the Chinese people and firm belief in developing relations with China.

China and Serbia are “iron friends” who have stood together through thick and thin, Xi said, underscoring the profound historical foundation, solid public support, extensive common interests and strong impetus for cooperation of their bilateral relations.

He called on the two sides to make joint efforts to build and operate major cooperation projects, promote the early entry into force of the China-Serbia free trade agreement, strengthen cooperation in science and technology innovation, deepen cooperation in education, sports, and tourism, expand personnel exchanges, and inherit and carry forward China-Serbia friendship.

Brnabic said that China had become Serbia’s largest investment partner, and bilateral cooperation projects had changed the face of Serbia’s national development. The conclusion of the free trade agreement between the two countries in half a year fully demonstrates the firm determination of both sides to further deepen relations. China has always supported Serbia in safeguarding national sovereignty and dignity, for which the Serbian people are deeply grateful.

The following articles were originally published by the Xinhua News Agency.

Xi meets Cuban prime minister, calling for further strategic coordination

BEIJING, Nov. 6 (Xinhua) — Chinese President Xi Jinping on Monday met with Cuban Prime Minister Manuel Marrero Cruz at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing.

Noting China and Cuba are good friends, good comrades, and good brothers, Xi said under the guidance and cultivation of the two countries’ leaders, China and Cuba had worked hand in hand on the path of building socialism with their own characteristics, supported each other on issues concerning each other’s core interests, and cooperated closely on international and regional issues, thus forging an unbreakable bond of trust and friendship.

Continue reading Xi Jinping meets with Cuban and Serbian PMs

Ambassador Ma Hui: China and Cuba always support each other

In an interview with CGTN’s Liu Xin, China’s Ambassador to Cuba Ma Hui outlines the Caribbean country’s approach to tackling Covid-19 and highlights the cooperation between the two socialist countries. He further criticises the US embargo and contrasts his experience as Ambassador in Havana with that in his previous position as Minister in the Chinese Embassy in London, both in the ‘time of Covid’.

Unlike the discriminatory approach adopted by the US, UK and some other countries, Cuba has welcomed China’s adjustment of its Covid policies and the country stresses that it always welcomes Chinese visitors. Ambassador Ma praises Cuba for managing to contain Covid despite suffering from a decades-long US embargo. Cuba, he notes, has one of the highest rates of administering vaccine boosters, using domestically researched and produced vaccines. There are currently only a few positive Covid test cases per day, with no deaths reported in the last five months. Cuba developed its own vaccines against all the odds – the only Latin American country to do so. The country is quite developed in terms of biotechnology.

China and Cuba always support each other, Ambassador Ma explained, including in fighting the virus. At the onset of Covid-19, Cuba offered material help to China despite its own difficulties and later China reciprocated, supplying ventilators, oxygen generators, medicines and personal protective equipment (PPE) on several occasions.

Cuba’s achievements are all the more impressive in that they have been won whilst fighting under a US embargo that has imposed huge suffering. Indeed, the Cuban people describe the embargo as another lethal virus. Cuba has not only put up a brave fight at home but has also helped others. Both China and Cuba have a tradition of sending medical teams to developing, and even on occasion developed, countries, and through their heroic efforts, the Cuban people sent doctors to some 30 or 40 countries to help them fight the pandemic.

Comparing his Cuban experience to his time in London, Ma Hui said that for the mainstream media and some politicians, China is a victim of “damned if you do, damned if you don’t”. When it came to Covid, the UK failed miserably but lectures others. However, solidarity and cooperation are the only way out as the virus is a common challenge to all humanity.

Liu Xin’s interview with Ma Hui is embedded below.