\"How much does it cost to fly from Havana to Beijing?\" asked Tito, an 82-year-old retired Cuban pilot. This question wasn't just about travel expenses; rather, it was a reflection of the deep bond between China and Cuba. In 1961, 223 Cuban youths, including Tito, traveled to China to study aviation and aircraft maintenance. These young trainees returned to Cuba with exceptional skills and became the backbone of the Cuban Air Force, contributing immensely to their homeland's aerial missions.
Though more than half a century has passed since those early days, Tito's affection for China has never faded. His memories – captured in old photographs, training certificates and even the Chinese characters he wrote by hand – are cherished reminders of the time he spent in China, a period marked by hope, passion and mutual respect. Tito often shares his treasured mementos with Chinese visitors, proudly displaying his medals and notebook, while recounting his unforgettable experiences in China.
Tito's story is just one of many that reflect the deep, enduring friendship between China and Cuba. Even though the two countries are separated by thousands of miles, their bond is timeless, rooted in shared history and strengthened by years of cooperation. As 2025 marks the 65th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two nations, the connection between Havana and Beijing has only grown stronger, flourishing in countless ways that benefit both peoples.
Strengthening people-to-people ties
The relationship between China and Cuba dates back over 170 years, with the arrival of the first Chinese laborers at Havana Port. Since the establishment of formal diplomatic relations, exchanges between the two nations have grown increasingly frequent, as both governments have worked to foster deeper cultural understanding.
At the 42nd International Tourism Fair in Cuba in 2024, Cuban Minister of Tourism Juan Carlos Garcia announced an important new policy: Chinese citizens holding ordinary passports would no longer need a visa to visit Cuba.
That same month, the resumption of direct flights between China and Cuba was celebrated with a traditional water salute at Havana's Jose Marti International Airport. Cuban Prime Minister Manuel Marrero Cruz was present to welcome the first Air China flight to Havana, emphasizing that this new air link and visa exemption symbolized the ever-growing friendship between their peoples. These developments reflect the aspirations of both countries to further deepen connections and enable citizens to easily engage with one another.
