Havana and Beijing may be thousands of miles apart, but the friendship between Cuba and China spans generations and continues to flourish. One heartwarming example is the story of Tito, an 82-year-old retired Cuban pilot whose life was forever changed by his journey to China.
In 1961, Tito was among 223 Cuban youths who traveled to China to study aviation and aircraft maintenance. These young pioneers returned home equipped with exceptional skills, becoming the backbone of the Cuban Air Force and contributing immensely to their country’s aerial missions.
Even after more than half a century, Tito’s affection for China remains strong. His cherished memories include old photographs, training certificates, and handwritten Chinese characters. He often shares these treasured mementos with visitors, proudly showcasing his medals and recounting his unforgettable experiences in China—a time marked by hope, passion, and mutual respect.
Strengthening Ties Through Travel
The bond between Cuba and China isn’t just a relic of the past; it’s dynamically growing. In 2024, at the 42nd International Tourism Fair in Cuba, an exciting announcement was made: Chinese citizens holding ordinary passports no longer need a visa to visit Cuba. This move aims to boost tourism and deepen cultural understanding between the two nations.
Around the same time, direct flights between China and Cuba resumed, greeted with celebration at Havana’s José Martí International Airport. Cuban Prime Minister Manuel Marrero Cruz welcomed the first flight, emphasizing that this new air link symbolizes the ever-growing friendship between their peoples.
Collaboration in Trade and Innovation
Trade relations between the two countries are also flourishing. One notable partnership is between China’s Luzhou Laojiao, one of the oldest and most respected liquor brands, and Cuba’s world-renowned Habanos S.A., famous for its cigars. At the 24th International Habano Cigar Festival in Havana, they signed a strategic agreement to expand their markets, uniting two iconic products that symbolize their rich cultures.
The collaboration doesn’t stop at trade. In the realm of science and technology, China and Cuba have joined forces to create groundbreaking innovations. A shining example is the biomass power plant in Ciego de Ávila, co-built by China. This eco-friendly project uses agricultural waste like sugarcane bagasse and marabú plants to generate renewable energy, reducing carbon emissions and benefiting local communities.
A Friendship for the Future
The enduring connection between Cuba and China serves as an inspiring example of how friendship can transcend time and distance. On traditional Chinese festivals like the Lantern Festival, Tito and other retired Cuban pilots who studied in China are invited to the Chinese Embassy in Cuba. Together, they celebrate and reminisce, proving that true friendship knows no bounds.
As the 65th anniversary of diplomatic relations approaches in 2025, the ties between Havana and Beijing continue to strengthen. From personal stories like Tito’s to national partnerships in trade and technology, the unbreakable bond between Cuba and China promises a future filled with shared opportunities and mutual respect.
