The eastern Cuban city of Santiago has once again become the backdrop for crucial meetings with the Kremlin, highlighting Cuba's increasing reliance on Moscow. On Friday evening, Russian Deputy Prime Minister Dmitri Chernyshenko touched down at Santiago de Cuba's International Airport, marking the beginning of a visit deemed strategic by both countries.
The Russian Embassy in Cuba publicized Chernyshenko's arrival, sharing images and details on social media, underscoring the Kremlin's significant communication role in their bilateral relations. "The plane carrying the Russian delegation has landed today at Santiago de Cuba's International Airport. This marks the start of Deputy Prime Minister Dmitri Chernyshenko's visit to #Cuba, where he will co-chair the 22nd Meeting of the Russian-Cuban Intergovernmental Commission for Economic, Commercial, and Scientific-Technical Cooperation," stated the Russian diplomatic mission.
Upon arrival, the delegation was welcomed by Russian Ambassador to Cuba, Víctor Koronelli, alongside Cuban officials such as the Minister of Foreign Trade and Foreign Investment, Oscar Pérez-Oliva; First Secretary of the Communist Party in Santiago de Cuba, Beatriz Johnson Urrutia; and Provincial Governor, Manuel Falcón Hernández. Traditional Cuban music added a ceremonial touch to the reception.
Chernyshenko's visit coincides with the 65th anniversary of the re-establishment of diplomatic ties between the two nations, an occasion highlighted by the Russian embassy as vital for strengthening the "strategic partnership" between Cuba and Russia, a sentiment echoed by the leaders of both countries.
During the 22nd Meeting of the Russian-Cuban Intergovernmental Commission, potential agreements in critical sectors such as energy, transportation, biotechnology, and tourism may be finalized. These areas have seen increased Russian involvement following the withdrawal of European and Latin American investors.
In March 2024, Chernyshenko took part in a bilateral meeting in Moscow with Cuban representatives, where he announced a new loan to Cuba aimed at ensuring a steady supply of oil, petroleum products, wheat, and fertilizers, essential elements for the Cuban economy.
Later, in November, Chernyshenko visited Havana and declared Russia's readiness to supply 80,000 tons of diesel fuel, valued at $60 million, as part of efforts to mitigate Cuba's severe energy crisis. Additionally, during this visit, a supplementary $65 million credit was granted for fuel purchases, along with a $2 million donation for acquiring parts and components needed to repair the national electrical system.
Other High-Level Russian Visits to Cuba in 2024
February 2024: Sergey Lavrov, Minister of Foreign Affairs
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov arrived in Havana in February 2024, marking his ninth visit to the island since assuming his position. During his stay, Lavrov reaffirmed Cuba as Russia's primary ally in Latin America and the Caribbean, holding talks with President Miguel Díaz-Canel and his Cuban counterpart, Bruno Rodríguez Parrilla.
June 2024: Sergey Tsivilov, Minister of Energy
In June, Russian Energy Minister Sergey Tsivilov met in Moscow with Cuban Deputy Prime Minister Ricardo Cabrisas Ruiz. Tsivilov expressed Russia's intent to assist in rebuilding Cuba's deteriorating electrical system, emphasizing the need for new energy facilities and the involvement of Russian specialists in this endeavor.
November 2024: Alexander Kurenkov, Minister of Emergency Situations
In November, General Raúl Castro welcomed Lieutenant General Alexander Kurenkov, Russia's Minister of Emergency Situations, in Havana. Their discussions focused on enhancing cooperation in responding to natural disasters and energy crises impacting Cuba at the time.
Key Aspects of Russia-Cuba Relations
What was the purpose of Dmitri Chernyshenko's visit to Cuba?
Dmitri Chernyshenko visited Cuba to co-chair the 22nd Meeting of the Russian-Cuban Intergovernmental Commission, aimed at strengthening strategic ties and discussing potential agreements in key sectors.
How does Russia plan to support Cuba's energy sector?
Russia plans to support Cuba's energy sector by supplying 80,000 tons of diesel fuel and granting additional financial aid for fuel purchases and repairs to the national electrical system.
Who welcomed Dmitri Chernyshenko upon his arrival in Cuba?
Dmitri Chernyshenko was welcomed by Russian Ambassador Víctor Koronelli and several Cuban officials, including Minister Oscar Pérez-Oliva, Beatriz Johnson Urrutia, and Manuel Falcón Hernández.