Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan Meets Cuban President; Explores Collaboration Opportunities

Havana: Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan recently had a productive meeting with Cuban President Miguel Diaz Canel in Havana. The discussions focused on potential areas of collaboration between Kerala and Cuba. President Canel expressed admiration for Kerala’s achievements in social progress and expressed Cuba’s willingness to cooperate in various fields, including sports, health, and biotechnology.

The two leaders explored avenues of cooperation, such as establishing a digital university, enhancing technical communication between universities, and promoting student exchange programs. President Canel also expressed his intention to visit Kerala during his next trip to India, demonstrating the growing ties between the two regions.

Was privileged to call on Cuban President @DiazCanelB and discuss the possibilities of Cuba-Kerala collaboration in sectors including public healthcare & sports. He promised to rigorously follow up our discussion & to visit Kerala on his next trip to India. pic.twitter.com/aEASNylXOM

— Pinarayi Vijayan (@pinarayivijayan) June 15, 2023

Kerala’s deep affection for Cuba and its legendary revolutionary figures, Fidel Castro and Che Guevara, were conveyed by Chief Minister Vijayan. Kerala aims to foster collaboration primarily in trade, education, sports, and health services. The meeting highlighted Cuba’s global recognition in public health, medical research, biotechnology, and pharmaceuticals, presenting opportunities for joint training programs and research initiatives in healthcare.

The discussions also centred on sports, with Kerala expressing admiration for Cuba’s achievements in disciplines like volleyball, judo, and track and field. Cooperation in these areas is expected to contribute significantly to the advancement of Kerala’s sports sector.

Trade and education were also identified as potential areas for collaboration. Kerala seeks to establish a comprehensive and constructive relationship with Cuba through joint efforts in these fields.

Chief Minister Vijayan expressed gratitude for President Canel’s assurance of cooperation in all aspects of the partnership. He also welcomed global participation and investment in health-related sectors and expressed interest in establishing a vaccine manufacturing facility in Kerala in collaboration with BioCubaFarma, a Cuban organization specializing in biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries.