On January 12, 2025, India and Cuba will celebrate 65 years of diplomatic relations. This is a historic milestone that not only highlights the length of our ties, but also marks a new chapter in cooperation, especially within the global framework of BRICS. Cuba’s recent addition to the BRICS partnership from January 1, 2025 provides an exciting avenue for both countries to strengthen strategic cooperation and expand their common voice in global affairs.
The roots of India-Cuba relations go back to the early days of the Cuban Revolution. In July 1959, just months after Fidel Castro assumed power, Che Guevara visited India as part of his tour of Asia, bringing with him a message of solidarity from Cuba. India was one of the first countries to recognize the Cuban Revolution, laying the foundation for a partnership based on mutual respect and a shared vision of global independence and sovereignty.
A defining moment in bilateral relations occurred in September 1960 when Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru and Fidel Castro met at the United Nations General Assembly. This historic encounter solidified diplomatic relations between the two countries and set the stage for continued cooperation in the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM), where both countries champion the cause of developing countries.
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In the decades that followed, famous exchanges continued to strengthen these bonds. President Fidel Castro’s visits to India in 1973 and 1983 were milestones in which the Cuban leader shared a symbolic hug with Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. These visits symbolized the deep friendship between the two countries. Further visits by Indian leaders such as Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and former President Ram Nath Kovind continue to build on this legacy and demonstrate the enduring partnership between India and Cuba.
Over the years, this relationship has evolved from political solidarity to concrete cooperation across various fields. India provides significant assistance to Cuba, particularly in the medical field. India’s donations of medicines and pharmaceutical raw materials have become especially important in the wake of the devastating impact of natural disasters such as hurricanes and earthquakes. Additionally, credit facilities extended by India, including the 2023 rice procurement, have proven critical in addressing Cuba’s food security needs.
One of the most notable aspects of India-Cuba relations is the unwavering support India has provided to Cuba at the United Nations. India has consistently voted in favor of Cuba resolutions condemning the US economic blockade that has caused untold suffering to the Cuban people. India’s diplomatic support is a cornerstone of friendly relations and reinforces shared values of sovereignty and justice.
Going forward, bilateral relations between India and Cuba are poised for further growth with the two countries committed to expanding cooperation in key areas such as biotechnology, renewable energy, information technology, agriculture and tourism. . The BRICS partnership offers new opportunities to cooperate not only in trade and investment, but also in these areas. As the two countries deepen their engagement within the BRICS framework, their joint efforts will be essential in shaping a more inclusive world order that emphasizes cooperation, peace, and respect for sovereignty.
Cuba’s joining of BRICS represents an important development in the Global South’s efforts to create a more balanced and fair international system. By working together within this powerful group, India and Cuba will further strengthen economic, political and cultural ties, sharing power and contributing to a new global paradigm that amplifies the voices of developing countries. You can.
As India and Cuba celebrate 65 years of diplomatic relations, this anniversary is an opportunity to reflect on their long-standing partnership, rooted in common ideals and enriched by practical cooperation. From the early days of revolutionary solidarity to today’s burgeoning cooperation in key areas, India-Cuba relations are a testament to the enduring power of diplomacy and mutual respect. The future holds even greater promise as our two countries continue to build a stronger and more dynamic partnership for the benefit of their people and the wider world.
