Mr Martinez praised the fraternal friendship between the two countries and informed Mr Hong about Cuba’s preparations for its national Party congress.

Mr Hong briefed Mr Martinez on VUFO’s solidarity activities with Cuba, especially the organisation’s call for the release of five Cuban soldiers detained illegally in a US prison. He also affirmed VUFO’s determination to promote relations with the Cuban Institute for Friendship with the Peoples (ICAP).

Mr Hong appreciated Cuba’s revolutionary achievements and expressed his belief that under the Communist Party of Cuba’s leadership, Cuban people would gain greater achievements in the process of national construction and defence.

The same day, at the meeting with ICAP President, Kenia Serrano, Mr Hong informed her about VUFO’s recent activities and shared experiences in managing non-governmental organisations and organising activities for foreign students.

During the visit to Cuba from September 22-29, the VFF delegation will attend the 49^th anniversary of the establishment of the Committee for the Defense of the Revolution (CDR).