New Delhi/Havana: Meenakshi Lekhi, Minister of State for External Affairs and Culture of India, concluded on Saturday a ‘fruitful’ visit to Havana, which highlighted the willingness of both countries to continue strengthening bilateral ties of friendship and cooperation, officials said.

The visit had its central moment with the meeting with the President of the Republic of Cuba, Miguel Diaz-Canel, who said: "We consider your visit as a sign of the will and willingness of the Government of India to continue strengthening and expanding relations with Cuba, which is also our will and our desire".

During the fraternal dialogue, the President thanked the Minister of State for the support that means for Cuba, the upcoming arrival to the Island of the first shipment of rice from India, which was acquired with a line of credit granted by the Government of that country.

Likewise, he highlighted the presence of that nation in the National Economic and Social Development Plan that Cuba has drawn up until 2030, as part of which, India participates in very important programs in food, pharmaceutical industry and renewable energy sources.

Had excellent meeting with Cuban Foreign Minister Acting @CubaMINREX Gerardo Peñalver Portal and reviewed full range of relations between India and Cuba. Discussed ways of enhancing cooperation in areas of mutual interest. @MEAIndia @CubaMINREX @IndianDiplomacy pic.twitter.com/wqxBQP0qgl

— Meenakashi Lekhi (@M_Lekhi) January 14, 2023

"I ratify our willingness to continue expanding and strengthening our political, diplomatic, economic, trade and cooperation ties, and we would be interested in opening up other areas for cooperation, particularly biotechnology and environmental issues," the Cuban leader stressed.

After expressing his gratitude for the "support that the Government and people of India have always given us in Cuba's struggle against the blockade", President Díaz-Canel shared with MeenakashiLekhi the interest of Cuba in counting on India's support to promote, from the Pro-Tempore Presidency of the Group of 77+China, the discussion of a group of global problems and challenges currently faced by the nations of the world.

The Minister of State conveyed her country's willingness to continue strengthening the existing ties, while referring to various areas in which these ties can be expanded, as they are issues of common interest.

Previously, the Minister was received by the President of the National Assembly, Esteban Lazo; by the Interim Minister of Foreign Affairs, Gerardo Peñalver; and by the Minister of Culture, Alpidio Alonso.

She also paid tribute with floral tributes to the monuments in Havana dedicated to Cuba's National Hero, José Martí, and to the leader of Indian independence, Mahatma Gandhi.

Finally, she concluded his visit with a meeting at the Panchakarma Center of Havana, which promotes and offers Ayurvedic medicine services.