Opinions & Interviews

MINSK, 27 October (BelTA) – Cuba and Belarus enjoy long-standing friendly relations which will continue expanding, BelTA learnt from Director General for Bilateral Relations of the Cuban Ministry of Foreign Affairs Gerardo Penalver Portal, whose is in Minsk on a visit on 23-27 October.

The Cuban diplomat praised the results of the meetings and talks held in Minsk. The Cuban representative held talks with Belarusian Minister of Foreign Affairs Vladimir Makei, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Valentin Rybakov, representatives of the Department for Foreign Political Activity, the America Department and the Department for Foreign Political Analysis of the Belarusian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The parties discussed the state and prospects for developing the political dialogue between Belarus and Cuba, as well as trade, economic and investment cooperation. The Cuban diplomat also held meetings at the National Assembly and the Academy of Public Administration under the aegis of the President of Belarus.

“The negotiations were efficient. They demonstrate mutual interest in further strengthening of the Belarusian-Cuban contacts. I can say that given the outlined plans the year 2016 will be rich in exchanging visits,” said Gerardo Penalver Portal

The Cuban diplomat was also given a tour of the Museum of the Great Patriotic War. Gerardo Penalver Portal underlined a big role of the Belarusian people in the fight against the Nazis. He believes that the issue of security and the fight for independence remains topical today.