Events

Unwavering support for Cuba reaffirmed as Belarusian parliament hosts meeting with ambassador

MINSK, 8 June (BelTA) - Belarus is unwavering in its support for Cuba. This was emphasized during a meeting between Chairman of the House of Representatives of the National Assembly of Belarus Igor Sergeyenko and Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Cuba to Belarus Santiago Pérez Benítez in Minsk on 8 June, BelTA has learned.

It was noted that meetings between the parliamentary corps and the Cuban ambassador have become a good tradition. They take place both in bilateral format and in a broader setting. In particular, the ambassador once spoke from the rostrum of the House of Representatives, and the parliamentary corps remembers that speech well.

“Belarus attaches great importance to developing and strengthening relations with Cuba. The foundation for fruitful cooperation is the dialogue at the highest level between the heads of state,” the speaker of the House of Representatives said.

He pointed out that confirmation of these kin relations, actions, and words on the part of Belarus was the meeting between Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko and Cuban Vice President Salvador Valdйs Mesa in late May in Astana. The Belarusian leader stated that Belarus values fraternal Cuba and will help as much as circumstances and possibilities allow.

The meeting at the House of Representatives also noted that Belarus watches events surrounding Cuba with anxiety and concern, observing how the situation is being escalated. It was emphasized that the voice of parliamentarians has always been against any dictation, any imposition of forceful scenarios or military actions.

“We are unwavering in our support. And in the Oval Hall of the House of Representatives, we adopted a statement in support of Cuba,” the speaker said.

The chairman of the House of Representatives noted that it is difficult today to predict how events will unfold. At the same time, he assured the ambassador that Belarus will always stand with Cuba. “The main thing is that the processes taking place do not lead to a possible humanitarian crisis in the near future,” he said, adding that, in accordance with the head of state’s decision, the government is currently preparing to send a humanitarian shipment to Cuba, including agricultural products and medicines.

According to Igor Sergeyenko, the task of parliamentarians is to develop and strengthen bilateral relations, support each other on the international stage, which is being done, and work on the legislative framework necessary for maintaining and developing trade, economic, and humanitarian relations between the countries. He noted that the legislative framework has largely been established, with individual agreements being finalized and ratified.

Speaking about parliamentary cooperation, Igor Sergeyenko highlighted the work of friendship groups in the parliaments, including seminars held via video conference on pharmaceutical, agricultural, and industrial issues. He added that parliamentarians, through their contacts, help strengthen relations between the countries.

The ambassador emphasized that relations between Cuba and Belarus are truly exemplary: they are relations between long-standing friends and brothers. “Therefore, I highly appreciate the fact that you are receiving me at the House of Representatives. The fact that you gave me the opportunity to address the entire House of Representatives then is a gesture we hold in high regard,” he said.

Santiago Pérez Benítez noted that bilateral relations have concrete substance. “We discuss not only general, overarching issues but also specific relations, including the work of friendship groups. In Cuba, the role of both the president of Belarus and the Belarusian people is held in very high esteem. You are an example for us and for many countries in Latin America and the Global South in general,” he said.

“Today in Cuba, the fraternal hand of Belarusians, in the form of humanitarian aid and overall support, is viewed very positively. We need this solidarity,” the ambassador said.