Cuban Prime Minister Manuel Marrero Cruz participated online in the Eurasian Intergovernmental Council meeting, where he urged for an increase in business engagements with Cuba.
"We reaffirm our commitment to expanding and strengthening mutually beneficial cooperation between Cuba and the Member States of the Union," said Marrero.
In his address, the Prime Minister emphasized that the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) has successfully become a platform for close interaction among its member states and described it as a promising player on the international stage.
"We must achieve greater coordination to develop joint projects in areas of mutual interest, which necessitates a more systematic and effective relationship between the ministries and agencies of the Commission, the Member States, and Observers," Marrero commented.
The Cuban government is seeking alliances to navigate out of its economic crisis. However, the projects they plan are not materializing with the urgency required by the island's situation.
"Our country places great importance on economic, commercial, financial, and cooperative relations with the Eurasian Economic Union and its Member States, based on the historical ties between the Cuban people and the peoples of this region," Marrero stated.
He noted that there are opportunities in the agriculture and agro-industry sectors. In this regard, he mentioned ongoing actions with "Belarusian partners for years." However, he specified that "the businesses that develop will also contribute to the export of Cuban products to the EAEU member countries." This may explain why the alleged progress in that area is not visible in Cuban markets.
The Eurasian Economic Union was established in 2014, and since 2020, Cuba has been an observer country.
The Cuban government aims for a more coordinated role, asserting that it will "promote foreign investment in Cuba for the development of animal production, such as chicken, cattle, pork, and citrus, fruits, sugar, cocoa, and coffee," something Marrero believes can be beneficial for all parties.
In Havana, at the April Council of Ministers meeting, Marrero assured that amid the country's economic difficulties, "the best levels of productivity and efficiency cannot be achieved." Interestingly, the leader believes that "it is possible to make progress if we fully exploit collective intelligence."
Understanding Cuba's Push for Eurasian Investment
In light of the recent discussions, here are some frequently asked questions about Cuba's push for increased cooperation with the Eurasian Economic Union.
Why is Cuba seeking increased business with the Eurasian Economic Union?
Cuba is looking for alliances to help navigate its economic crisis. Increased business with the Eurasian Economic Union could provide mutually beneficial cooperation and opportunities for economic growth.
What sectors does Cuba see potential in for cooperation with the EAEU?
Cuba sees potential in agriculture and agro-industry, particularly in areas like animal production (chicken, cattle, pork) and the cultivation of citrus, fruits, sugar, cocoa, and coffee.
How long has Cuba been an observer in the Eurasian Economic Union?
Cuba has been an observer in the Eurasian Economic Union since 2020.