Ho Chi Minh City proposes solar power support for Cuban schools, hospitals

The proposal was discussed during a meeting on Tuesday morning between Ho Chi Minh City People’s Council Chairman Vo Van Minh and Mauricio Alejandro Martínez Duque, newly-appointed Consul General of Cuba in the southern Vietnamese city.

Minh congratulated Mauricio Alejandro Martínez Duque on his new role and expressed hope that the diplomat would continue strengthening ties between Ho Chi Minh City and Cuba.

The city leader emphasized that Vietnam and Ho Chi Minh City have always valued their long-standing friendship with Cuba, describing the relationship as one built over generations by leaders and citizens of both countries.

Minh said the city has carried out several initiatives to assist Cuba, including mobilizing public contributions to help Cuban citizens overcome difficulties.

He highlighted agriculture as a priority area of cooperation, particularly in ensuring food security and sustainable development.

Beyond agriculture, Minh said that Cuba has strong potential for renewable energy development, especially solar and wind power.

Ho Chi Minh City, he said, is ready to connect Cuban partners with Vietnamese businesses, experts, and financial resources to help implement renewable energy projects.

The city also hopes to encourage international organizations and private enterprises to participate in support initiatives for Cuba.

The Cuban diplomat expressed gratitude for Vietnam’s support, acknowledging Cuba’s ongoing struggles with energy, fuel, and healthcare shortages.

He explained that for more than two years, Cuba has faced severe obstacles in securing fuel supplies, directly affecting hospitals, schools, and essential infrastructure.

These challenges have hit vulnerable groups, including children and patients, particularly hard.

The consul general welcomed Ho Chi Minh City’s proposals, especially the solar power projects, calling them practical solutions that could improve education and healthcare services amid Cuba’s electricity shortages.

He pledged to work toward strengthening comprehensive cooperation between Cuba and Ho Chi Minh City during his tenure.