UAE and Cuba Strengthen Strategic Partnership Through Cooperation and Friendship
Havana, Dec 9 (Prensa Latina) — The United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Cuba continue to foster a deepening partnership founded on mutual respect, friendship, and a shared commitment to collaboration. This bilateral relationship, which extends to the broader Caribbean region, has gained significant momentum in recent years, as highlighted by UAE Ambassador Hazza Alkaabi during a ceremony celebrating the 53rd anniversary of the founding of the UAE.
A Landmark Year for UAE-Cuba Relations
Ambassador Alkaabi noted that 2023 marked a turning point in UAE-Cuba relations. President Miguel Diaz-Canel’s visit to the UAE in November 2023 was the first by a Cuban head of state and a historic milestone in their bilateral ties. This was followed by a visit from Cuban Prime Minister Manuel Marrero in February 2024, further solidifying the relationship.
These visits resulted in the signing of over 10 agreements and memorandums of understanding between the two nations, aimed at diversifying cooperation across various fields, including sustainable development, renewable energy, and cultural exchange.
Building a Foundation for Mutual Growth
In his remarks, Ambassador Alkaabi praised Cuba’s rich cultural heritage, its commitment to education and healthcare, and its legacy of international solidarity. He emphasized that these values align closely with the UAE’s vision of fostering global partnerships.
"Together, we have created a foundation to enhance our bilateral relations," Alkaabi said. "This includes increasing high-level official visits and developing initiatives with significant social impact."
One key focus of cooperation is addressing Cuba’s pressing challenges, such as food sustainability and energy security. Ambassador Alkaabi explained that UAE-backed programs aim to support Cuba’s transition to renewable energy while bolstering its capacity for sustainable food production.
A Broader Vision for the Caribbean
The UAE’s engagement with Cuba is part of a wider strategy to deepen ties with the Caribbean region. Through initiatives such as the Caribbean Renewable Energy Fund and the Pacific Partnership Fund, the UAE has launched projects aimed at supporting island nations in their transition to clean energy and sustainable development.
These initiatives reflect the UAE’s commitment to fostering regional cooperation, promoting trade and investment, and sharing technological expertise to address common challenges such as climate change and energy security.
Celebrating UAE National Day
The ceremony in Havana also marked the 53rd UAE National Day, a celebration of the union of the seven emirates on December 2, 1971. Ambassador Alkaabi highlighted that this day symbolizes the strength, unity, and progress achieved by the UAE since its founding.
The event brought together a diverse group of attendees, including Cuban Deputy Foreign Minister Josefina Vidal and Antonio Rodriguez, president of the National Institute of Hydraulic Resources. Omar Shehadeh, the UAE Foreign Ministry envoy for the Caribbean and Pacific States, also participated, further underscoring the UAE’s commitment to strengthening ties with the Caribbean region.
Shared Commitment to Sustainability and Innovation
During the ceremony, the UAE’s achievements in sustainability, innovation, and resource conservation were spotlighted. Ambassador Alkaabi highlighted how the UAE has emerged as a global leader in environmental protection, renewable energy, and sustainable development.
He praised Cuba’s dedication to education and healthcare and underscored the importance of linking their shared values to create impactful projects. The UAE's ongoing support for food security and renewable energy in Cuba is part of its broader vision of fostering resilience and innovation in partner nations.
A Vision for the Future
As the UAE and Cuba look to the future, their growing partnership demonstrates the potential of international cooperation to drive mutual progress. By fostering dialogue, innovation, and sustainable development, the two nations are setting an example of how collaboration can address complex global challenges while enhancing the well-being of their people.
Through high-level exchanges, innovative projects, and shared commitments to sustainability, the UAE and Cuba are forging a path toward a more connected and prosperous future for both nations and the broader Caribbean region.
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