Following opening remarks by Foreign Secretary Prabhita Margherita, Cuban Deputy Prime Minister Eduardo Martínez will give a special address on the topic “Facilitating India-LAC Trade Relations: The Path Forward.”

The Organizing Committee highlighted that Cuba has made significant progress in its development and is globally recognized for its leadership in biotechnology and healthcare, with pioneering achievements in the development of vaccines, biopharmaceuticals, and medical research.

The Committee also emphasized that India has been a steadfast partner in Cuba’s development, providing $243 million in credit lines to support projects in agriculture, renewable energy, and infrastructure. It also noted that India’s financing of solar farms is helping Cuba reduce its dependence on fossil fuels. Furthermore, India has supported the procurement of rice and is well positioned to contribute its expertise in irrigation, mechanized agriculture, and agrotech solutions.

“What new opportunities for economic collaboration are on the horizon with Cuba’s accession to the BRICS?” the Committee asked, and questioned how India and Cuba can further strengthen their partnership in key sectors such as healthcare, digital transformation, sustainable mobility, and industrial innovation.

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