Cuba receives 15,000 tons of rice from China as part of emergency aid

Cuba received a significant boost to its emergency food supplies with the arrival of 15,000 tons of rice from China, marking the third installment of a donation that will ultimately total 60,000 tons. This aid comes as the island nation grapples with a severe and prolonged economic crisis, exacerbated by U.S. sanctions.

The latest shipment arrived at the port of Havana, where Chinese Ambassador Hua Xin stated that the delivery signifies China's solidarity with Cuba. "China is by Cuba's side," he declared, vowing continued support for the Cuban people and their opposition to foreign interference, particularly from the United States.

Cuban Deputy Prime Minister Oscar Pérez-Oliva expressed profound gratitude for the donation, emphasizing the "indestructible" nature of Cuba-China relations. He highlighted China's support as a crucial lifeline while Cuba faces intensified U.S. blockades and energy sanctions.

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China is by Cuba's side. We will continue to support Cuba and its people, who firmly oppose foreign interference from the United States.

This rice donation is part of a broader aid package approved by Chinese President Xi Jinping in January, which also includes $80 million in financial assistance. Earlier in the week, the Chinese embassy in Havana delivered 5,000 photovoltaic systems to aid rural electrification, addressing the island's energy crisis, which has been worsened by an oil blockade from Washington.

Cuba's economy has contracted by 15% over the past five years, leading to chronic shortages of food, medicine, and fuel, alongside widespread power outages and high inflation. The strong political and economic ties between Havana and Beijing position China as one of Cuba's principal allies.

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China extends its hand to Cuba as the blockade tightens and the U.S. energy siege against our country intensifies.