By Chantelle Muzanenhamo
Mr. Juan Esteban Lazo Hernandez, the Cuban president of the National Assembly of People’s Power and Council of State, has arrived in Zimbabwe for a pivotal two-day visit aimed at strengthening the long-standing bilateral relations between the two nations.
His agenda includes high-level discussions with President Emmerson Mnangagwa, Speaker of Parliament Advocate Jacob Mudenda, and other senior government officials.
In a statement, Foreign Affairs and International Trade spokesperson Mrs. Philisiwe Chidawanyika, highlighted that the, visit underscores the commitment of Zimbabwe and Cuban to enhance their collaboration, which has its roots in shared history and mutual support.
“Zimbabwe and Cuba enjoy excellent relations dating back to Zimbabwe’s liberation struggle, in which Cuba provided military and other support.”
The two countries have a history of collaboration, with Cuba playing a vital role in training Zimbabwean professionals, particularly in the fields of education and healthcare.
More than 3,000 Zimbabwean professionals have graduated from Cuban universities, contributing their skills and knowledge back home. This educational partnership continues, with programs based at institutions like Bindura University of Science Education.
Furthermore, the Cuban delegation is set to tour the monument honoring Cuba’s founding leader, Fidel Castro, along Fidel Castro Road in central Harare, and visit the African Liberation Museum.
The visit is particularly important for the newly appointed Cuban Ambassador to Zimbabwe, Ms. Suseleys Perez Mesa, who recently presented her credentials to President Mnangagwa.