President Truong Tan Sang relayed wishes from Vietnamese Party and State leaders to President Raul Castrol, leader Fidel Castro and other high-level Cuban officials.

President Truong Tan Sang held talks with President Raul Castro Ruz in Havana, Cuba on September 29th (Cuba time) following his official welcome ceremony, seeking to bolster the fraternal solidarity and comprehensive cooperation between Vietnam and Cuba.

The leaders briefed each other on recent situations in their respective countries and exchanged views on regional and international issues of mutual concern.

Cuban President Raul Castro and President Truong Tan Sang inspected the guards of honour. (Source: VNA)

President Raul Castro welcomed President Truong Tan Sang’s visit, saying it contributes to deepening the solidarity, comprehensive cooperation and mutual trust between the two Parties, States and people.

They affirmed their support for dealing with sovereignty disputes through peaceful measures and with respect for international law.

President Truong Tan Sang took the occasion to hand over 5,000 tonnes of rice as gift from the Vietnamese leaders and people to the Cuban people.

President Truong Tan Sang presented 50 sets of computers to leaders of the Cuban Institute for Friendship with the Peoples and the Cuba-Vietnam Friendship Association.

President Raul Castro presented the Jose Marti Order – Cuba’s highest distinction to Heads of State, Government leaders and famous foreign people – to President Truong Tan Sang in recognition of his contributions to peace and humanity.

On the same day, State President met with Cuban National Assembly President Esteban Lazo.

At the meeting, the State President lauded Cuba’s achievements in health, education, biological technology and sports as well as its assistance and cooperation with other developing nations in terms of health care and education.

The Cuban legislative leader said he is delighted with the two countries’ special fraternal relationship, which was initiated by late Vietnamese President Ho Chi Minh and Cuban Leader Fidel Castro 55 years ago, saying the ties have been strengthened in all realms, effectively serving each side’s revolutionary cause.

He thanked Vietnamese leaders and people for their solidarity and support for Cuba, especially during the most difficult time of the Cuban Revolution.

Cuban stands ready to work as a bridge for Vietnam to foster its multi-faceted cooperation with countries in the Latin American and Caribbean regions, he said.

The two leaders agreed to promote experience exchange to improve their policy making and law establishment work./.

Complied by VNF