Havana (VNA) – Vietnamese Ambassador to Cuba Le Quang Long has visited Cuba’s Pinar del Rio province, known as the "cigar capital" of the world, to explore the local economic and social potential and identify opportunities for collaboration.
Receiving the Vietnamese diplomat on March 19, Secretary of the provincial Party Committee Yamile Ramos Cordero told him economic and social strengths of the westernmost province of Cuba.
Cordero emphasised the province's tourism potential, highlighting its breathtaking natural landscapes as well as key export products such as cigars, honey, and other agricultural goods. She proudly shared the local achievements in education and health care, noting the presence of over 590 educational institutions and 835 healthcare facilities serving the population. The province has invested more than 80% of its budget into essential sectors, demonstrating a strong commitment to the welfare and quality of life of its residents.
Covering nearly 8,900 sq.km and home to over 570,000 people, Pinar del Rio contributes to around 70% of Cuba's total cigar production. However, it faces challenges related to energy and infrastructure. Cordero mentioned plans to focus on developing hydropower, expanding rice and crop cultivation, and enhancing the manufacturing of construction materials.
For his part, Long reaffirmed Vietnam's special solidarity with Cuba and proposed several concrete cooperation initiatives.
He emphasised the commitment to serving as a bridge to promote collaboration between Pinar del Rio and Vietnamese localities and businesses, particularly in agriculture and fisheries.
Regarding the expansion of cooperation between Pinar del Rio and Vietnam’s Dong Nai province under a memorandum of understanding signed in October 2024, the ambassador noted that Dong Nai is importing production materials while Pinar del Rio has abundant resources. He suggested the two localities explore the possibility of establishing a sustainable supply chain.
He also expressed his hope for stronger collaboration in political, economic, cultural, and people-to-people exchanges as in line with the agreements made by both countries' leaders following the visit by Vietnamese Party General Secretary and then State President To Lam in September 2024.
During their stay in Pinar del Rio, the Vietnamese ambassador and delegation visited to the Ormani Arenado Credit and Services Cooperative (CCS), renowned for its cigar tobacco cultivation. They also toured an outstanding local cigar farm and the Francisco Donatien factory, where world-famous cigars are made./.
