The Cuban leader Miguel Díaz-Canel and his wife, the not-First Lady Lis Cuesta, arrived in Laos this Saturday, the final stop on their Asian tour.
“El Presidente Díaz-Canel arrived on Saturday evening (local time) in the Laotian capital, where he was welcomed by local authorities and students who awaited him at the airport, representing a people that feels great affection for Cuba,” stated the Presidencia Cuba account on X.
"During this, his third stop in socialist countries of East Asia, the Head of State will have a busy agenda that will continue the exchanges with his companion Thongloun Sisoulith, general secretary of the Lao People's Revolutionary Party," the information adds.
Díaz-Canel arrived from China where he participated in the military parade that commemorated the 80th anniversary of Japan's defeat in World War II, led by Xi, Putin, and Kim Jong Un.
The leader met privately with the Chinese president and also had a meeting with 70 Chinese entrepreneurs, to whom he assured that the island is open to all proposals.
Both governments issued a joint statement reaffirming their commitment to "accelerate the building of a China-Cuba Community of Shared Future."
The tour had begun in Vietnam, where the presidential couple and their entourage arrived on a chartered plane that costs the Cuban people $11,000 per hour, and where they followed a tight schedule of activities and attempted to attract donations and investors for the struggling Cuban economy.
Frequently Asked Questions about Díaz-Canel's Tour of Asia During the Crisis in Cuba
Why are Díaz-Canel and Lis Cuesta on a tour in Asia?
Díaz-Canel's tour of Asia aims to strengthen diplomatic and economic relationships with allied countries such as Vietnam, China, and Laos. The Cuban leader seeks to promote bilateral cooperation and attract investments at a time when Cuba is facing a severe economic crisis. However, the tour has generated criticism due to the high cost of the trip and the precarious situation that the Cuban population is experiencing.
What impact does this tour have on the current situation in Cuba?
The tour has generated outrage in Cuba, as it takes place amid a severe economic and social crisis on the island. Prolonged blackouts, food shortages, and rampant inflation stand in stark contrast to the luxuries surrounding the Cuban delegation during their trips abroad. This disparity has led to criticism of the government for its apparent disconnection from the reality of the Cuban people.
How are the trips of Díaz-Canel and his entourage financed?
Díaz-Canel's travels and his entourage are financed through the rental of private jets, which are significantly expensive. On this occasion, the plane leased for the Asian tour costs 11,000 dollars per flight hour. This expense has been widely criticized, given the context of the acute economic crisis that Cuba is facing.
What role does Lis Cuesta play in these international tours?
Lis Cuesta, although she does not hold an official position in the government, regularly accompanies Díaz-Canel on his international tours. Her presence has been the subject of controversy, particularly due to her extravagant lifestyle during these trips, which contrasts with the difficult situation that most Cubans on the island are experiencing.
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