Chinese President begins official visit

· by · in 1. NEWS. ·
  • Chinese President Xi Jinping was greeted upon his arrival in Havana by First Vice President Miguel Díaz-Canel

(Granma International) – In a written statement delivered to the press, Xi Jinping expressed his conviction that the visit would open a new stage in mutually beneficial cooperation between the two countries, saying, “With efforts made by the two parties, this visit will serve the purpose of promoting friendship, deepening mutual trust, expanding cooperation and advancing development – opening a new stage in our friendly, mutually beneficial cooperation.”

Saying that both China and Cuba are entering a crucial stage in their respective development, Jinping asserted that the time is now to undertake comprehensive reform. He continued commenting that Cuba is moving forward with the updating of its economic model, thus creating a significant, new opportunity to develop the relationship between the two nations.

He recalled that in 1960, Cuba became the first country in Latin America and the Caribbean to establish diplomatic relations with China, opening a new era in the development of ties between China and the region.

Over the course of 54 years, he said, “The bilateral ties have stood the test of international vicissitudes, and we have become good friends, comrades and brothers, making positive contributions in hopes of promoting unity and cooperation among developing countries and protecting our common interests.”

The Chinese President said that, responding to the kind invitation made by President Raúl Castro, making a state visit to Cuba was a great pleasure.

“Being again in Havana, three years since my previous visit, gives me a great sensation of familiarity and affection. I would like to express, in the name of my government and the Chinese people, our most cordial greetings and best wishes to the sister Cuban people,” he concluded.

President Xi Jinping’s stop in Cuba is the last on his second Latin American-Caribbean tour, which also included state visits to Brazil, Argentina and Venezuela.

During his visit, which will be featured in the next issue of Granma International, Xi Jinping will hold official talks with President Raúl Castro, and participate in a variety of other activities.