The launch was on the occasion of the Vietnam - Cuba Friendship Year 2025 and the 65th anniversary of the establishment of the diplomatic ties between Vietnam and Cuba (December 2, 1960 - 2025). It reminds us of the unforgettable years when Cuba extended its solidarity and generosity to Vietnam during the most difficult period of Vietnam’s history.
For centuries, the Vietnamese people have upheld the “gratitude-paying” moral principle, regarding fidelity and affection a red thread woven into the cultural traditions of the nation. On the historical journey of nations, few relationships embody that spirit as fully as the solidarity between Vietnam and Cuba.
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First Secretary of the Communist Party of Cuba Central Committee and Head of the Council of State and the Council of Ministers of the Republic of Cuba Fidel Castro and Party General Secretary Do Muoi, State President Le Duc Anh, Prime Minister Vo Van Kiet and General Vo Nguyen Giap at the Presidential Palace on the evening of December 8, 1995 (Filed photo: VNA) |
Right in early 1960 when Vietnam was still engulfed in the flames of war and confronted with numerous difficulties and losses, Cuba took the lead in establishing the diplomatic relations with Vietnam and became one of the first countries in the world to officially support the struggle of the Vietnamese people for national salvation. Beyond political statements, even in hardship, Cuba gave Vietnam the most precious support such as hospitals, hotels, roads, farms, doctors, and engineers. Our Cuban friends welcomed thousands of Vietnamese students as if they were their own children. That profound kindness remains deeply etched in the hearts of the Vietnamese people to this day. Above all, the immortal words of Cuban leader Fidel Castro that “For Vietnam, Cuba is even willing to shed its own blood” have become the highest symbol of proletarianism internationalism and profound human solidarity.
It was once said that meeting a true friend in life is rare. In international relations, where ties are often governed by interests, to find a nation as pure, loyal, and selfless as Cuba is even rarer. How many friendships in the world can claim such noble and enduring solidarity?
Today, as brotherly Cuba is struggling with natural disasters, diseases and harsh impacts of blockade and sanctions, the Vietnamese people, both at home and abroad, have actively responded to the Red Cross Society’s appeal and contributed voluntarily without any administrative order. Notably, many are students who have grown up in peace and have joined efforts to carry forward the traditions of gratitude and loyalty of the Vietnamese nation.
Gratitude does not arise spontaneously. It must be taught, nurtured, and fostered through historical stories and moral lessons so that this good tradition can be preserved and passed on from generation to generation. It is essential to retell the story of Vietnam - Cuba solidarity in every school, every family, and through every social activity in a respectful manner in order to let today’s generation understand that this rare relationship was not built merely on words but with blood, sweat and unconditional sacrifice.
When a young generation grows up with a deep sense of gratitude, they will know how to cherish humanistic values, to share with their communities, and to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with international friends in times of need. That not only sustains the good relations between Vietnam and Cuba, but also helps build the image of the Vietnamese people of compassion and faith in the eyes of friends worldwide.
Translated by Mai Huong