Within the framework of cooperation between Russia and Cuba, the Deputy Mayor of Transport and Industry of Moscow, Maxim Liksutov, and the Minister of Transport of Cuba, Eduardo Rodríguez Dávila, signed a memorandum for the delivery of Moskvitch vehicles intended to enhance taxi services on the island.
The agreement was formalized during the recent visit of the Cuban official to Russia. Liksutov promised that Moscow would send an initial batch of 50 Moskvitch vehicles to Cuba, with the possibility of adapting the cars' multimedia systems to Spanish to optimize their use.
These cars will be used in the taxi fleets of Havana and Varadero, with the aim of improving urban transportation and ensuring greater comfort and safety for passengers. It is most likely that their services will be in foreign currency.
The statement, published on Telegram by the Moscow Department of Transport, indicates that a working group has been established to develop the appropriate business model for the Cuban territory to carry out this project.
The Vice Mayor emphasized his government's commitment to international cooperation in the transportation sector, highlighting that the Russian capital is willing to share its experience and technological advancements with Cuba.
"We support the intention of the Cuban partners to develop urban transportation and make travel more comfortable and safe," stated Liksutov.
This agreement comes amid a severe transportation crisis in Cuba due to a shortage of resources, the deterioration of road infrastructure, the lack of spare parts, an aging vehicle fleet, and a lack of fuel.
The crisis affects both public and private transportation, severely impacting citizens' mobility and the country's economic development.
The Cuban government sought to mitigate this situation through international agreements, primarily with Russia and China, which have played a significant role in modernizing or renewing the island's vehicle fleet.
Moscow and Havana have a long history of trade in "Soviet cars." In 2017, Russia resumed the export of 320 Lada Vestas to the island, after 12 years without sending cars to Cuba. These vehicles were intended for tourism and taxi services, along with technical support to ensure their proper functioning.
In 2022, the Russians revived the production of Moskvich, an iconic brand in Cuba since the 1970s, known for being part of the labor incentives in the Caribbean country.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Delivery of Moskvitch Vehicles to Cuba
How many Moskvitch vehicles will Russia send to Cuba?
Russia has promised to send an initial batch of 50 Moskvitch cars to Cuba to strengthen the taxi service on the island.
Where will the new Moskvitch taxis be used in Cuba?
The vehicles will be used to create taxi fleets in the cities of Havana and Varadero, with the aim of improving urban transportation in those areas.
What measures are being taken to adapt Moskvitch vehicles for Cuba?
The Russian government has considered the possibility of adapting car multimedia systems to the Spanish language to optimize their use in Cuba.
How does this agreement impact the transportation crisis in Cuba?
The agreement aims to alleviate the severe transportation crisis in Cuba, which is due to a shortage of financial resources, the deterioration of road infrastructure, and a lack of spare parts and fuel.
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