The Cuban leader Miguel Díaz-Canel met with his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping last Friday during their attendance in Russia for the 80th anniversary celebrations of the victory against fascism.
“In the context of the celebrations in #Russia for the victory in the Great Patriotic War, I had a cordial meeting with comrade Xi Jinping, General Secretary of the Communist Party of #China and President of the Republic,” tweeted Díaz-Canel.
Regarding the bilateral meeting, the Cuban official stated that "we reviewed the excellent state of the ties between our parties and governments, and we agreed on ways to deepen these relations, on the occasion of the 65th anniversary of the establishment of our diplomatic relations."
For its part, the Chinese state agency Xinhua reported statements from Xi, in which the Chinese leader said that “he firmly supports Cuba in safeguarding its national sovereignty and against foreign interference and the blockade.”
China views Cuba as a strategic ally in the Caribbean, challenging the hegemony of the United States in its traditional sphere of influence. The strengthening of military and political ties between the two countries could have significant implications for the balance of power in the region.
At the end of last year, high-ranking Chinese military officials visited Cuba amid growing international concerns about the potential presence of Chinese espionage bases on the island.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Meeting Between Díaz-Canel and Xi Jinping in Russia
Why did Miguel Díaz-Canel and Xi Jinping meet in Russia?
The meeting between Miguel Díaz-Canel and Xi Jinping in Russia took place during the celebrations of the 80th anniversary of the victory against fascism. Both leaders took advantage of their presence in Russia to discuss the state of bilateral relations between Cuba and China, and to agree on ways to deepen them on the occasion of the 65th anniversary of their diplomatic relations.
What is China's stance on Cuba?
China firmly supports Cuba in safeguarding its national sovereignty against foreign interference and the blockade. This was reiterated by Xi Jinping during his meeting with Díaz-Canel, emphasizing China's view of Cuba as a strategic ally in the Caribbean and in opposition to U.S. hegemony in the region.
What implications does the alliance between Cuba and China have?
The strengthening of military and political ties between Cuba and China could have significant implications for the balance of power in the region. The alliance challenges the traditional influence of the United States in the Caribbean and could increase geopolitical tensions, especially considering the potential presence of Chinese espionage facilities in Cuba.
How does the Cuba-China relationship affect the United States?
The relationship between Cuba and China represents a direct challenge to the influence of the United States in the Caribbean. Especially with the possibility of Chinese espionage bases in Cuba, which could threaten regional security and increase tensions between Washington and Havana.
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