Cuban Ambassador Rogelio Polanco Fuentes extended warm Tet greetings to the Vietnamese people while visiting Hoan Kiem Lake in Hanoi. Reflecting on the legend of the returned sword, he expressed hopes for peace and prosperity in the new year.

A heartfelt message from the Cuban ambassador

Having been in his role in Vietnam for nearly two months, Ambassador Rogelio Polanco Fuentes shared his Tet greetings from Hoan Kiem Lake, often regarded as the heart of Hanoi.

The ambassador offered a warm embrace and a message of solidarity to the "brotherly people of Vietnam" on the occasion of Tet 2025. He highlighted the significance of this year, which marks many historic milestones and is celebrated as the Vietnam-Cuba Friendship Year.

“I wish this festival of reunions and friendship brings new energy, ushering in an era of robust development for Vietnam - a future of prosperity, happiness, and sustainable growth both materially and spiritually,” he said.

He emphasized the importance of preserving Vietnam’s illustrious history, rich culture, and kind-hearted spirit as invaluable treasures.

Drawing inspiration from the legendary tale of the returned sword at Hoan Kiem Lake, he expressed hope for peace to be restored, allowing everyone to enjoy life in a more beautiful and harmonious Vietnam.

Vietnam-Cuba friendship: A bond across distance

Despite geographical distance, Vietnam and Cuba have shared a unique camaraderie, rooted in their shared struggles for independence and freedom.

In 2024, diplomatic exchanges flourished, notably with the visit of General Secretary and President To Lam to Cuba in September, marking one of his first state visits in his new role.

The year 2025 is designated as the Vietnam-Cuba Friendship Year, celebrating 65 years of diplomatic relations since their establishment on December 2, 1960. Over the past 65 years, the two nations have continuously strengthened their traditional solidarity, comprehensive support, and cooperation across various fields.

Significant events are planned in both Vietnam and Cuba to commemorate this milestone. These include celebrations of major anniversaries such as the 95th founding anniversary of the Communist Party of Vietnam (February 3, 1930 – February 3, 2025), the 50th anniversary of the liberation of southern Vietnam (April 30, 1975 – April 30, 2025), and the 80th anniversary of the August Revolution (August 19, 1945 – August 19, 2025), alongside Vietnam's National Day (September 2, 1945 – September 2, 2025).

Tran Thuong