China Sends First Batch Of Promised 60,000 Tonnes Of Food Aid To Cuba Amid Worsening Crisis

A shipment carrying 15,000 tonnes of rice donated by China arrived at the port of Havana on Sunday, marking the first batch of a promised 60,000 tonnes of food aid to Cuba as the island struggles with severe shortages and an energy crisis.

Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel said the rice would be distributed across all provinces, including Isla de la Juventud, and would also support hospitals and schools.

Chinese ambassador Hua Xin said the 60,000-tonne donation was China’s “largest food aid” package to Cuba in recent years.

The shipment arrives as Cuba faces worsening fuel shortages, long power cuts and disruptions to transport and public services.

According to the International Energy Agency, Cuba imports nearly 60% of its oil needs.

Cuban officials say the situation became worse after the United States increased sanctions pressure earlier this year and threatened penalties against countries or companies supplying oil to the island.

Cuba has been under a US trade embargo since 1962, which Havana blames for shortages of food, fuel and medicine.

President Díaz-Canel thanked China for its support and said the ties between the two countries were growing stronger during a difficult period for Cuba.

China has also donated solar panels to help improve Cuba’s ageing electricity grid and reduce dependence on imported fuel.

The fuel shortages have caused nationwide blackouts and affected healthcare, transportation and other public services across the country.

References: ctvnews, aljazeera