Russian Deputy Prime Minister Chernyshenko discussed bilateral cooperation with Cuban President

On April 5, Russian Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Chernyshenko opened a branch of the Southern Federal University (SFU) in Havana. This was announced on April 5 on the Telegram channel of the government of the Russian Federation.

In particular, he discussed with Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel bilateral cooperation in various areas. The Deputy Prime Minister said that Russian President Vladimir Putin and his Cuban counterpart had repeatedly stressed the strategic importance of the two countries' partnership.

Chernyshenko called the opening of the university's branch a historic event and clarified that the first students will be able to start classes next academic year. He expressed gratitude to those involved in the implementation of the project, especially noting the contributions of SFU President Marina Borovskaya and Rector of the University of Havana Miriam Nicado Garcia.

"Cuban students will be able to master advanced additional education programs in Russian and prepare for admission to Russian universities. <...> We have a huge responsibility to ensure a bright future for our countries, their prosperity and sovereignty – technologically, financially, culturally and ideologically," Chernyshenko added.

In addition, the Russian Deputy Prime Minister presented certificates for the purchase of computer equipment to students and scientists and wished them success. Among other things, he participated in the opening of the exhibition "Technology Evolution in Cuba: Challenges and Opportunities for New Generations" by the Geocuba Group of companies, one of the key partners of which is the Moscow State University of Geodesy and Cartography.

Chernyshenko also launched the UAZ assembly site in Havana and participated in the ceremony of removing the first car from the assembly line. It is specified that from now on, SUVs, light trucks and minibuses will be produced in Cuba on a modern conveyor.

The day before, Chernyshenko said that Russia would continue to provide economic support and humanitarian assistance to Cuba. He added that, among other things, a program of emergency measures was proposed to minimize the consequences of the energy crisis that occurred on the island at the end of 2024.