Regarding the development of the friendship and solidarity between the two Parties, States and peoples, Ambassador Diaz said under the leadership of President Ho Chi Minh and Commander in Chief Fidel Castro, the two nations had laid the foundation for a long lasting admirable relationship and solidarity. That relationship has witnessed strong developments in all fields between the two Parties, States, Governments and peoples, demonstrating absolute trust, loyalty, and transparency. Cuba wholeheartedly supported Vietnam in the resistance war against the US, as well as the country’s later construction and defence cause, especially in construction, health, and human resource training.

When Cuba went through a difficult period, especially in the 1990s, Vietnam realised the two countries’ solidarity through mass movements with many donations to Cuba. Cuba has appreciated Vietnam’s readiness to deepen the bilateral relations on the basis of the interests and needs of Cuba.

It can be affirmed that the relationship between the two countries from two different continents with different languages, customs and traditions, is a symbol of the humanity and nobility of the two revolutions, based on a mutual commitment to building socialism, promoting social justice and protecting the independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity, as well as fighting for peace and stable development, under the sound leadership of the two Communist Parties.

When asked about the co-operation prospects between Vietnam and Cuba in the future, Ambassador Herminio Lopez Diaz expressed his belief in the bright future relations between the two countries as it was built on the basis of the brotherhood with absolute political trust. Both sides agreed to enhance the effectiveness and practicality of the mechanisms of the Vietnam-Cuba Inter-governmental Committee. In the context of Cuba updating its economic model, and diversifying external relations with the other economies in the world, whilst Vietnam is continuing to promote the renewal process and international integration, it is necessary that both sides fully take advantage of potential and opportunities in an active and innovative manner. In addition, enterprises of the two countries are currently paying increasing attention to the issue of growth and diversification of bilateral relations in the fields of trade, investment and economic co-operation in general.

On the occasion of the 55th anniversary of Vietnam-Cuba diplomatic ties, Cuban Ambassador to Vietnam Herminio Lopez Diaz would like to send Vietnamese people a message to affirm the relations between the two countries. This relationship needs to be nurtured, preserved and passed on to the younger generations who will continue the traditions of the fine brotherhood and solidarity for the mutual benefit of both countries. The Ambassador also expressed his sincere wishes for good health, happiness, prosperity and success to all Vietnamese people.