Victor Gaute Lopez, Deputy Director of the Cuban Institute of Friendship with the Peoples (ICAP), has hoped for an increase in people-to-people diplomacy between Cuba and Vietnam, especially as both countries approach the 65th anniversary of diplomatic relations in 2025.

Speaking at a recent meeting with Nguyen Lan Huong, Chairwoman of the Fatherland Front Committee of Hanoi, the Cuban official applauded the timing visit of the Hanoi delegation as the two nations are about to celebrate key milestones in their bilateral relationship.

He emphasized the importance of fostering awareness among the young Cubans of the traditional Vietnam-Cuba bond, and encouraging them to preserve this legacy.

Cuba has over 30 schools named in honor of Vietnam, and the country has consistently facilitated visits by Vietnamese teachers and students to Cuba, he noted.

Deputy Director Victor suggested that both sides increase people-to-people exchanges to deepen mutual understanding and strengthen the connection between the Vietnamese and Cuban people.

Nguyen Lan Huong, Chairwoman of the Vietnam Fatherland Front Committee of Hanoi, expressed her pleasure at visiting and meeting with ICAP.

She highlighted the significance of the state visit to Cuba in September 2024 by Vietnam's General Secretary and State President, To Lam.

This visit, she said, marked an important moment with historical significance, reflecting the close and special friendship that has endured over the past 65 years between the two nations, and been treasured by both Parties and people.

Chairwoman Huong suggested that the two capitals enhance friendly exchanges, forums, youth meetings, and exchanges for teachers, students, and medical experts.

"The Party, government, and people of Hanoi want to further elevate the relationship between Hanoi and Havana to new heights," she said.

At the meeting, Chairwoman Huong noted that Hanoi has successfully commemorated the 70th anniversary of its Liberation Day and the 25th anniversary of UNESCO's recognition of Hanoi as a "City for Peace", and joined the UNESCO Creative Cities Network.

Huong also briefed on recent activities between Hanoi and Cuban localities. Hanoi supported Havana with 4,000 tons of rice in 2022 and 2023, totaling VND73 million (US$2,900), to help ensure the well-being of the Cuban people.

The Vietnam-Cuba Friendship Association in Hanoi has also maintained regular relations with the Cuban Embassy in Hanoi, frequently organizing celebrations with the Embassy for major Cuban holidays, including Cuban National Day, the anniversary of the Cuban Revolution's victory, the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two nations, and the commemoration of José Martí, an outstanding Cuban thinker, revolutionary, and cultural figure.