The Cuban leader Miguel Díaz-Canel congratulated the people of the People's Republic of China this Tuesday on the occasion of the Lunar New Year, which marks the beginning of the Year of the Fire Horse in the traditional Asian calendar.
"On the Lunar New Year, I am pleased to convey, on behalf of the Party, the Government, and the Cuban people, our sincerest wishes for happiness, health, and prosperity to the beloved and brotherly people of the People's Republic of China," he wrote on the social network X.
In a series of messages published on February 16, Díaz-Canel stated that both countries "will continue to move decisively in defending the socialist cause and the joint construction of a Community of Shared Future between China and Cuba."
He also expressed his desire to "strengthen strategic communication" and "advance in all areas of cooperation."
The message from the Cuban leader has drawn attention on social media due to its emphasis on the "Year of the Fire Horse," a reference to the Chinese zodiac that blends tradition, symbolism, and elements associated with Eastern astrology.
The Horse is the seventh animal of the Chinese zodiac cycle and is associated with vitality and dynamism. Under this sign were born figures such as former U.S. President Joe Biden and former German Chancellor Angela Merkel.
In Chinese tradition, the zodiac combines 12 animals and five elements—metal, wood, water, fire, and earth—and is a central part of popular culture and Lunar New Year celebrations.
Díaz-Canel's message comes at a particularly delicate time for Cuba, which is experiencing a severe economic crisis and a significant fuel shortage that is already impacting basic services and air connectivity.
Last week, China reiterated its support for Havana. The spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Lin Jian, stated that their government "strongly supports Cuba in defending its sovereignty and national security" and will provide "assistance to the extent of its capabilities."
Amid power outages, fuel shortages, and social discontent, Díaz-Canel's gesture reinforces the official stance to strengthen the alliance with Beijing even further.
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