Paris, January 14, 2025. As part of his working visit to France, the First Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Cuba, Gerardo Peñalver Portal, was received by UNESCO Deputy Director-General, Mr. Xing Qu. The Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Cuba to UNESCO, Maria del Carmen Herrera Caseiro, was also present at the meeting.
During the fraternal exchange, both executives noted the excellent state of ties between Cuba and the Organization and agreed to continue strengthening them.
The Deputy Director-General recognized Cuba's activism in the Organization and highlighted the country's commitment to UNESCO's mandate, while commenting on the Island's achievements in the educational, scientific and cultural fields.
For his part, the Cuban Deputy Minister reiterated Cuba's support and commitment to UNESCO and thanked the Organization for its support and contribution to the Cuban people's struggle against the blockade. Both officials acknowledged the negative impact of this policy and of Cuba's continued presence on the list of countries sponsoring terrorism.
It was also a good opportunity to confirm the will of both parties to strengthen the historic ties of cooperation between Cuba and UNESCO.