65 years of Vietnam - Cuba relations: A timeless bond

In Vietnam’s diplomatic history, few relationships are honored with the word “special” as profoundly as the friendship between Vietnam and Cuba. Over the past 65 years, despite the vast geographical distance and shifting global dynamics, the two nations have steadfastly nurtured a loyal, unwavering friendship forged during years of shared struggle for independence, freedom, and social justice.

On the occasion of the 65th anniversary of Vietnam - Cuba diplomatic relations (December 2, 1960 –2025), a reporter from Dong Nai Newspaper and Radio, Television conducted an interview with Ariadne Feo Labrada, Consul General of Cuba in Ho Chi Minh City, to discuss the historical significance, contemporary relevance and how younger generations are carrying forward this treasured legacy.

How do you assess the historical significance of the special friendship between Vietnam and Cuba in today’s global context?

The special relations of friendship and brotherhood between Cuba and Vietnam have been strengthened over time through continued efforts to deepen cooperation across all fields. In the current complex geopolitical landscape, the relationship between our two countries stands as a symbol and a model to follow.

Ariadne Feo Labrada, Consul General of Cuba in Ho Chi Minh City, speaks with a reporter from Dong Nai Newspaper and Radio, Television.

The extraordinary relationship our peoples have built throughout history shows that when mutual respect, fair cooperation and concrete policies to advance genuine political, diplomatic, economic and trade ties exist, friendship becomes a source of enduring strength. There has never been a point of disagreement between us; on the contrary, solidarity and affection have only grown stronger among our peoples.

For 65 years, the steadfast friendship between our two nations has been symbolized by President Ho Chi Minh and Leader Fidel Castro. What, in your view, has created this timeless bond?

The close ties between our countries were shaped by our historic leaders - President Ho Chi Minh and Leader Fidel Castro - and we have continued to build upon that foundation. It is a bond rooted in loyalty, respect and solidarity.

Our nations share a common history: the struggle for sovereignty and for the full realization of social justice, despite the geographical distance. Certain events highlight the strength of this relationship, such as Fidel Castro’s visit to Vietnam, especially his trip to the newly liberated zone of Quang Tri in September 1973. The image of him raising the flag of the National Liberation Front of South Vietnam has become an enduring symbol in the hearts of the Vietnamese people, as he was the only world leader to visit South Vietnam while the war was still raging.

We must also remember his historic declaration in 1966: “For Vietnam, Cuba is willing to shed its blood.” This was not merely a statement, it was a profound affirmation of Cuba’s commitment to stand with Vietnam. Conversely, the Vietnamese people have supported Cuba on numerous occasions, with heartfelt contributions from children, youth, mothers and the broader public. These gestures have allowed our special relationship to withstand the test of time and continue from one generation to the next.

In the new period, the two countries have expanded cooperation across many fields. Could you share some notable achievements, especially regarding Cuba’s role in southern Vietnam, including Dong Nai Province?

Cooperation has been strengthened for many years through exchanges at the levels of Party, National Assembly, Government, localities and people-to-people ties. Recently, we have focused on key areas such as agriculture, biotechnology, education, food production and energy.

Ariadne Feo Labrada, Consul General of Cuba in Ho Chi Minh City, presents a commemorative gift to Nguyen Thi Hoang, Vice Chairwoman of the Dong Nai provincial People’s Committee.

In southern Vietnam, agricultural cooperation has been strengthened, mainly in rice, corn and other food production. We also promote product commercialization and renewable energy. A remarkable example is the rice production cooperation model in Los Palacios, Pinar del Rio, where yields have reached 7.2 tons per hectare, reflecting the effectiveness of shared experience, crops and techniques.

Cultural and youth exchanges play an important role in nurturing the Vietnam–Cuba friendship. How can younger generations continue this legacy in a globalized world?

Children and youth play crucial role in carrying forward our relationship. We work actively with schools at all levels, organizing drawing contests, workshops and activities to introduce Cuban culture and the shared history of our nations. Music, dance, and art are always present in our events, offering young people an accessible way to understand one another.

Dong Nai province supports USD 100,000 for Pinar del Río to implement an urban resilience and disaster risk reduction project, helping strengthen disaster response capacity and sustainable infrastructure development.

A beautiful example of youth-driven solidarity is the recent support for Cuba by Vietnamese children and young people through the Vietnam Red Cross and the “Sol sin Fronteras” program organized by the Ho Chi Minh City Vietnam - Cuba Friendship Association. These actions show that the Vietnam - Cuba bond is being renewed with the sincerity, initiative and creativity of younger generations.

On the 65th anniversary of diplomatic ties, what message would you like to send to the Vietnamese people, especially those in Dong Nai and the southern provinces?

I would like to send a message of affection. Between our peoples, only pure emotions can exist - friendship, compassion and solidarity - values that are increasingly rare in international relations.

I hope the Vietnamese people, including the beloved Dong Nai province and the southern region, continue to preserve the spirit of unity that characterizes Vietnam, and continue nurturing the Cuba - Vietnam friendship planted by our leaders. Through this, the bond between our peoples will grow ever stronger and more enduring.

Nguyen Thi Hoang, Vice Chairwoman of the Dong Nai Provincial People’s Committee, receives Ariadne Feo Labrada, Consul General of Cuba in Ho Chi Minh City.

The Cuban people will always stand with the Vietnamese people so that this beautiful brotherhood remains eternal. Today and forever, we are ready to shed our blood for the heroic people of Vietnam.

Dong Nai is currently working to establish the Vietnam - Cuba Friendship Association to further strengthen people-to-people ties, deepen traditional friendship and promote economic, cultural and social cooperation. In recent years, the province has expanded cooperation with Cuban localities, particularly through activities with Pinar del Rio. In April 2025, Dong Nai contributed USD 100,000 to an urban resilience and disaster risk reduction project and agreed to broaden cooperation in the coming years.

By Hien Vuong (interview conducted) – Translated by Thuc Oanh, Thu Ha