An exhibition of archival documents and photographs dedicated to the 65th anniversary of the restoration of diplomatic relations between Russia and Cuba has opened in the Russian capital. The ceremony was attended by Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel, Speaker of the Federation Council of the Federal Assembly of the Russian Federation Valentina Matvienko and Chairman of the Moscow City Duma Aleksey Shaposhnikov.

At the opening ceremony, Diaz-Canel thanked the Russian side for the warm welcome and noted that this is not just a historical date, but a living confirmation of the long-standing dialogue and mutual respect.

“Our countries have long gone beyond formal partnership. We are united by a sincere interest in culture, art, science and education,” he emphasised.

For his part, Aleksey Shaposhnikov said that the 65th anniversary of the restoration of diplomatic relations is a vivid testimony to the sincere friendship of peoples who have passed through historical trials.

“This year Cuba became a partner country of the BRICS association, which creates new opportunities for us to develop our partnership in practice. We invite the authorities of Havana to join our initiative the Parliamentary Movement of the BRICS Capitals,” he said.

The Speaker also recalled the symbolic gestures that strengthen ties between Moscow and Havana: the appearance in the Russian capital of a square named after Fidel Castro, the installation of a monument to the legendary leader, as well as the signing of a memorandum of cooperation between the capitals in 2022.

Valentina Matvienko, opening the exhibition, expressed gratitude to Diaz-Canel for his participation in the event and emphasised that Cuba is not just a partner, but a true ally of Russia, with which we are linked by strategic relations and long-standing friendship.

“Even in the most difficult times, sincere feelings of mutual sympathy have been preserved. We are united by fundamental values – the pursuit of freedom, justice, and dignity,” she said, noting important joint projects in medicine, energy, transport, education, and other areas.

The Speaker of the Federation Council also stressed that thanks to the personal friendly relations between the leaders of the two states – Vladimir Putin and Miguel Diaz-Canel – the bilateral ties will only grow stronger.

Photo: Moscow City Duma Press Centre, the opening ceremony of the Moscow-Havana exhibition