Nigeria and Cuba have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen bilateral relations and deepen diplomatic cooperation in healthcare, education, agriculture, science and technology, and cultural exchange.
The agreement was signed in Abuja, Nigeria, during a meeting between Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, and his Cuban counterpart, Bruno Rodríguez Parrilla.
Both nations deliberated on enhancing collaboration within multilateral frameworks to address global challenges and promote sustainable development.
Ambassador Tuggar explained that the visit of the Cuban Foreign Minister as well as the signed MoU is a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to strengthen Nigeria-Cuba relations and to foster greater South-South cooperation.
“We have just signed an agreement, an MoU, to further strengthen our political relationship and collaboration, both bilaterally and multilaterally. During the course of our bilateral meeting, we discussed several areas aimed at enhancing trade, investment, and collaboration regarding the medical sector, research, science, and technology. This is something Nigeria keenly looks forward to actualizing with Cuba. For us, we consider Cuba as part of Nigeria’s diaspora. This visit provides an opportunity to further strengthen existing ties, agreements, and memoranda of understanding already in place. Additionally, as you have witnessed, it has allowed us to sign new ones.”
Ambassador Tuggar further stressed the deep-rooted ties between the two nations, noting that Cuba and Nigeria share a common culture and traditions, with Cuba holding a special place in Nigeria’s diplomatic history dating back to the colonial era.
“Cuba is a country with a special place in Nigeria, stretching back into history. What we share in terms of experience, culture, and tradition is something we hold dear to our hearts. Cuba played a prominent role in the liberation of the African continent, aiding countries under racist regimes from the 1960s through to the 1980s and, arguably, the early 1990s. Nigeria, alongside the frontline states, also played a significant role during this time. We share a common affinity beyond culture—particularly Yoruba culture, as well as the Itsekiri and other Nigerian cultures—which still feature prominently in Cuban music, cuisine, and more,” he added
Also speaking, the Cuban Foreign Affairs Minister, Rodriguez Parrilla, reiterated Cuba’s readiness and commitment to harness the potential for enhanced bilateral relations between the two countries.
“We affirm the very positive potential to enhance our cooperation in trade, investment, economic, cultural, academic, and scientific relations. We have been exchanging views to explore new opportunities and consolidate existing collaborations. We enjoy an excellent level of bilateral relations across numerous areas, including proactive exchange and commonalities in our international agendas. There is a very active level of bilateral cooperation and consultation, both on bilateral fronts and within multilateral international organisations.”
Rodríguez noted that Cuba takes pride in its African roots with a strong bond especially Nigeria and the African heritage in Cuban society.
“I am confident that this visit is a positive step and an excellent foundation for continuing productive exchanges and exploring additional opportunities for the benefit of the Nigerian and Cuban peoples. We Cubans consider ourselves to be a Latin American-African people of African descent, most importantly of Nigerian descent. Modern Nigeria is in our blood, culture, religions, and traditions,” he noted.
He also commended Nigeria for its stance on global issues, particularly its opposition to the long-standing U.S embargo on Cuba.
“Profound appreciation and gratitude for Nigeria’s contributions to Cuban culture and heritage, as well as its stance on the embargo against Cuba. We feel immense pride as a Latin American-African people. We shall always remain loyal to this unique and shared history, especially with the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” he added
Nigeria and Cuba are known to be members of the Non-Aligned Movement and Group of 77 plus China.
Both countries share similar positions on numerous global issues, particularly on the advancement of global peace and security, new international order, and sustainable development.
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