Hanoi (VNA) – As part of practical activities within the “Vietnam–Cuba Friendship Year 2025,” marking the 65th anniversary of diplomatic ties between Vietnam and Cuba (1960–2025), the Vietnam Red Cross Society has launched a campaign themed “65 Years of Vietnam–Cuba Solidarity.”
Running for 65 days (August 13 – October 16, 2025), the programme aims to raise at least 65 billion VND to help the Cuban people overcome hardship and to further strengthen the special friendship between the two nations.
At present, the Cuban people – especially children, the elderly, and other vulnerable groups – are facing mounting difficulties due to the prolonged impacts of COVID-19, natural disasters, and the embargo.
The campaign seeks to mobilise support in the form of medical supplies, essential goods, and sustainable development initiatives, thereby helping Cuba cope with severe challenges caused by the pandemic, natural disasters, and blockade policies.
This humanitarian initiative embodies the faithful friendship, close ties, and spirit of solidarity of the Vietnamese people towards Cuba. It is also an opportunity to honour the noble deeds that Cuba extended to Vietnam during its most difficult years.
On December 2, 1960, Cuba became the first country in the Western Hemisphere to establish diplomatic relations with Vietnam. Over the past 65 years, the two nations have stood shoulder to shoulder in the struggle for national independence and freedom, as well as in the cause of building and safeguarding socialism.
Their traditional solidarity, special friendship, comprehensive cooperation, and mutual trust have been constantly nurtured and expanded, serving as a source of encouragement, valuable support, and a powerful driving force for each country’s revolutionary path.
In their Joint Declaration of September 2024, Vietnam and Cuba agreed to designate 2025 as the “Vietnam–Cuba Friendship Year,” reaffirming their determination to elevate bilateral ties to new heights – making them more comprehensive, substantive, effective, and sustainable. The declaration also reiterated Vietnam’s solidarity and steadfast support for Cuba in overcoming the challenges it faces.
Over the decades, Vietnam–Cuba relations have remained a shining symbol of loyal and steadfast international solidarity. From the immortal words of Fidel Castro – “For Vietnam, Cuba is willing to shed its blood” – to acts of sharing in times of peace, the two countries have always stood side by side in pursuit of common goals.
During the 65-day campaign, organisations, individuals, and communities are encouraged to contribute through various forms: donations from officials, members, students, and workers; support mobilised from businesses and organisations at home and abroad; and contributions via direct and online channels such as the Vietnam Red Cross Society headquarters, QR code transfers, public donation boxes, mobile applications, and the official website of the Vietnam Red Cross Society.
In addition, creative campaigns will be carried out in schools, such as letter-writing initiatives and “small plan” fund-raising activities to support Cuban children.
All contributions will be received, managed transparently, and delivered by the Vietnam Red Cross Society to the Cuban people within 2025./.
