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A plane from the Colombian Air Force, sent by the president of that nation, Gustavo Petro, landed in Havana to deliver ten tons of humanitarian aid.
The shipment includes non-perishable food, medicines, medical supplies, and other essential items intended to support the Cuban population, which has recently been impacted by a series of natural disasters that have worsened the socioeconomic crisis on the island.
President Petro expressed his solidarity through social media, stating that "the blockade is a violation of human rights."
The delegation that accompanied the shipment included Deputy Foreign Minister Jorge Rojas, Minister of Mines Andrés Camacho, and the presidents of the Friendship Group between Colombia and Cuba in Congress, Senator Gloria Flórez and Representative Gabriel Becerra, both from the ruling party Pacto Histórico.
The Cuban leader, Miguel Díaz-Canel, expressed his gratitude on social media, highlighting the "support, solidarity, and personal involvement" of the Colombian president.
"You are an example of Latin American and Caribbean unity," the Cuban leader added to his counterpart after the shipment arrival was made public.
In recent months, Cuba has received various international aid to address the aftermath of hurricanes Oscar and Rafael. The United Nations (UN) has expanded its action plan, allocating $78.3 million to address the damage caused by these natural disasters.
The European Union (EU) has also approved an additional 2.7 million euros for the recovery of Cuba, bringing the total humanitarian aid to four million euros in 2024. This assistance has been realized through the shipment of essential supplies, such as medicines, water storage tanks, hygiene kits, and tarps, aimed at the most vulnerable populations impacted by natural disasters.
Organizations such as the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) have also contributed by sending shipments of 24 tons of humanitarian aid, which include solar lamps, tools, plastic tarps, kitchen utensils, hygiene products, and other essential supplies for those affected by the hurricanes.
Since President Gustavo Petro took office in August 2022, relations between Colombia and Cuba have significantly strengthened. One of Petro's first actions was to urge the Cuban government to reactivate peace talks with the National Liberation Army (ELN), which had been suspended since 2019.
In June 2023, Petro and Díaz-Canel led the closing of the Third Cycle of Peace Dialogues with the ELN in Havana, where a historic ceasefire was announced, solidifying Cuba's role as a key player in the Colombian peace process.
Additionally, Petro has expressed his admiration for Fidel Castro and his legacy in Latin America on multiple occasions, which has contributed to a closer ideological alignment between both governments.
Frequently Asked Questions about Humanitarian Aid to Cuba and Relations with Colombia
What kind of humanitarian aid did Colombia send to Cuba?
Colombia sent a military aircraft to Cuba with ten tons of humanitarian aid. The cargo included non-perishable food, medicines, medical supplies, and other essential items to support the Cuban population affected by recent natural disasters.
Why has international aid to Cuba intensified?
The intensification of international aid to Cuba is due to the devastating effects of two cyclones, earthquakes, and power outages that have worsened the island's critical economic and energy situation. The international community has responded with multiple donations to address the most pressing needs of the Cuban people, including food, medicine, and energy resources.
How has the Cuban government reacted to international humanitarian aid?
The Cuban government has expressed gratitude for the humanitarian aid received, highlighting the solidarity of the donor countries. However, it has maintained its critical stance towards the U.S. embargo, blaming it for the shortages on the island, despite the arrival of donations from the United States and other countries.
What role has Colombia played in the Colombian peace process related to Cuba?
Since Gustavo Petro came to power, relations between Colombia and Cuba have notably strengthened. Cuba has played a key role in the Colombian peace process, hosting talks with the ELN guerrilla and participating in the closure of the Third Cycle of Peace Talks, where a historic ceasefire was announced.
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