Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel met with International Relations and Trade Minister Selma Ashipala-Musavyi in Havana.

Ambassador Ashipala-Musavyi heads the Namibian delegation taking part in the inaugural session of the Intergovernmental Commission between Namibia and Cuba.

During the meeting, Diaz-Canel highlighted the importance of the commission, stating that it is only established with countries with which Cuba has close relations. He added that the late President Hage Geingob had long-held aspirations to establish the commission.

The Cuban President also highlighted the historic bonds of friendship that unite the two countries, which were forged by the friendship between the founding president of Namibia, Sam Nujoma, and the leader of the Cuban Revolution, Fidel Castro.

Diaz-Canel described these ties as close and unique, characterised by affection, respect, and mutual admiration. He noted that the first meeting of the Commission is a milestone, as it will further strengthen relations, which already have an excellent political foundation, and will also advance economic cooperation.

On her part, Ambassador Ashipala-Musavyi said it was an honour to be back in Havana for the second time. She conveyed greetings from President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, adding that Namibia wants to add economic and cultural dimensions to the historical relationship between the two countries.