Cuba and China: A Friendship that Crosses Oceans 🌏❤️🌍
Did you know that two countries on opposite sides of the world can be best friends? That’s the amazing story of Cuba and China! Even though they’re thousands of miles apart, their friendship has lasted for over 60 years, and it’s still growing stronger.
The Story of Tito: A Pilot with Big Dreams ✈️
Back in 1961, a young Cuban named Tito had a dream of flying airplanes. He, along with 222 other Cuban youths, traveled all the way to China to learn about aviation and how to fix aircraft. They worked hard, learned new skills, and even picked up some Chinese words!
When Tito returned to Cuba, he became a hero. He helped build the Cuban Air Force and flew many important missions. Even though he’s now 82 years old, Tito still remembers his time in China fondly. He keeps old photos, certificates, and even shows off his medals to visitors from China.
Friends Visiting Friends 🛬
Guess what? Now it’s even easier for people from China and Cuba to visit each other! In 2024, Cuba announced that Chinese visitors don’t need a visa to come explore the beautiful island. And flights between the two countries have started again, making the long journey much simpler.
When the first flight from China landed in Havana, it was greeted with a special water salute—a way to say “Welcome!” The leaders of both countries were excited, knowing that this means more adventures and friendships ahead.
A Tasty Team-Up: Baijiu and Cigars 🍻💨
China and Cuba are also teaming up in business! One of China’s oldest liquor brands, called baijiu (pronounced “bye-joe”), partnered with Cuba’s famous cigars. They decided to work together to share their special products with the world.
At a big festival in Cuba, they even auctioned off special editions of baijiu and cigars. The money raised helped support hospitals in Cuba. Isn’t it cool how teamwork can make a big difference?
Working Together for a Greener World 🌿⚡
The two countries are also joining forces to help the environment. In Cuba, with China’s help, they built a special power plant that uses plants like sugarcane leftovers and marabou (a local shrub) to create electricity. This renewable energy project helps reduce pollution and provides power to homes and factories.
By turning plant waste into energy, they’re making the world a cleaner place for all of us!
Celebrating Friendship 🏮🎉
During China’s Lantern Festival, which is a time for family and friends to be together, Tito and other retired Cuban pilots were invited to the Chinese Embassy in Cuba. They shared stories, laughed, and remembered the good times they had in China many years ago.
Their smiles and memories show that true friendship knows no distance. No matter how far apart they are, Cuba and China will always be close at heart.
So next time you think about faraway places, remember that friendships can span oceans and last a lifetime!
Reference(s):
From Havana to Beijing: A friendship that transcends time and distance
cgtn.com
