In an exclusive interview with the Russian channel RT, published this Friday, the head of Russia’s diplomatic mission to the Caribbean nation emphasized that relations between Moscow and Havana “are at the level of strategic cooperation.”

“We will continue together on this path, overcoming the difficulties.” The diplomat commented on how, faced with the onslaught of an oil blockade imposed by the United States on the Cuban people and government, a large part of the international community has shown itself to be on the side of truth.

“Well, political support, the support of other states, of other countries, is always important. And, truly, the international community in this very complicated situation has shown that the vast majority of countries are on Cuba’s side,” Koronelli stated.

In that context, he emphasized that “obviously, in addition to political support, Cuba needs material support.”

He added that Russia is analyzing the possibilities of providing this aid bilaterally, but is also doing so through international organizations.

The ambassador recalled that every year, through its contribution to the World Food Programme, Moscow supplies Havana with various food products “and will continue to do so,” he stated.

Koronelli also specified that joint projects with Cuba are continuing, despite the fuel shortages. “It is clear that this very complicated situation with fuel affects some of them, but we are keeping them on our agenda.”

In that regard, he added that the Russian-Cuban Intergovernmental Commission on Trade, Economic, Scientific and Technical Cooperation is scheduled to meet in April.

“This meeting must be held in Moscow. We hope the fuel shortage won’t affect this crucial meeting where we’ll review the status of the projects already agreed upon and continue exploring new ones,” he insisted.

abo/arm/otf/odf