Cuban “President” Miguel Diaz-Canel expressed gratitude to Chinese prosecutor Yi Yong for China’s assistance in training Cuban prosecutors during a recent visit to the island. This visit comes at a time when Cuba, under its communist regime, is seeking to strengthen ties with China, which has become increasingly significant as the Castro administration requests more support amid ongoing economic hardships brought on by its own policies.
Yi’s arrival in Havana coincided with discussions about a comprehensive emergency aid package from China. Notably, Diaz-Canel did not share specific information regarding the training of Cuban prosecutors but highlighted that Yi’s visit further exemplified the solid relationship between their nations.
During their meeting, Diaz-Canel thanked Yi for the support given to the education and training of Cuban legal officials. Before this encounter, Yi met with Cuban prosecutor Yamira Pena Ojeda, focusing on enhancing the collaboration established between their respective offices since 2015.
Pena Ojeda remarked that this visit is especially significant as they prepare to celebrate the 65th anniversary of diplomatic relations in September, suggesting that current issues in Cuba underline the ongoing need for such ties.
Diaz-Canel stated that both countries are working towards a shared future and mentioned an upcoming visit by Chinese Communist Party officials to Cuba. He also conveyed that China has adjusted the terms of its aid package, which is expected to include substantial contributions, such as rice and solar energy resources, benefiting numerous Cuban families.
Cuba faces critical challenges with its power infrastructure, struggling to supply enough electricity. The strain has resulted in high rates of power outages across the island. Diaz-Canel pointed out that China’s aid would help address some of these issues, including the provision of essential parts for the country’s failing power grid.
In an interesting note, the official Communist Party newspaper in Cuba reported that Ying received a commemorative recognition from the Cuban Attorney General’s Office during his visit.
As Cuba’s dependence on Chinese assistance grows, concerns have risen regarding China’s potential surveillance activities near the U.S. Reports have emerged about China possibly establishing spying operations in Cuba, drawing attention from U.S. lawmakers.
In a related context, reports suggest that China is gradually filling the gap left by Russia, which has historically been a key supporter of Cuba, particularly dating back to the Soviet era.
