Vientiane, June, 2024.A tree of friendship was planted in Vientiane Park, in this capital, as part of the commemorative activities for the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Cuba and Laos.
This act “will provide a new and special sense of unity and will constitute a symbol of friendship between our peoples, as we rejoice in half a century of ties that have blossomed into solid relations of brotherhood,” said the Cuban ambassador here, Enna Viant.
The diplomat expressed the honor that it meant for her to be a participant in what she described as an important moment in the history and development of bilateral ties and that marks a milestone in their future.
He recalled that with the triumph of the Cuban Revolution, in January 1959, there was a radical change in the foreign policy of his country and a new stage began based on basic principles that have remained unchanged until today, such as the promotion of relations with all nations. of the world on the basis of respect and peace.
Cuba also offered active and multifaceted support to the struggles of all peoples against imperialism, colonialism, neocolonialism and all forms of exploitation and discrimination, thus basing its ties on values such as the defense of sovereignty and the right to freedom. self-determination, solidarity and friendship, he said.
“In this way, Cuba has since established relations with Asia and its voice was also heard loudly in international forums to show solidarity in defense of the cause of the Lao people,” she remarked.
Viant recalled that cooperation between both peoples began in the 1970s, with the arrival of Cuban doctors to the mountains of Viengxay, in the province of Houapanh, from which an eternal brotherhood was established that we celebrate today in the framework of the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations.
The ambassador also alluded to the fact that, despite the illegal economic blockade imposed more than 60 years ago by the United States, Cuba set important goals in economic and social matters that are reflected in aspects such as universal and free access to health and education, a robust system of science, technology and innovation, and a comprehensive plan to confront climate change.
It is very significant that on International Children's Day the tree of friendship, solidarity and the hope of living in a world with a healthy environment for all citizens, including children, who are the future of the world, has been planted. present generations, he stressed.
Present at the ceremony, the vice president of the Lao National Assembly Chaleun Yiapahoer, president of the Laos-Cuba Friendship Association and the Doarlametario Friendship Committee, the governor of Vientiane, Athsaphangthong Siphandone, who pointed out that planting a Butea monosperma, whose flower is known As the “flame of the forest”, it will allow young Laotians and national and foreign tourists to know that this beautiful ornamental tree “is our symbol of relations and cooperation” between both countries. Vice-Chancellor Bonleua Pandanouvong also honored the activity.
Embassy of Cuba / PRELA