Miguel Díaz-Canel Bermúdez, the Cuban leader, has announced the commencement of an official tour across Asia, visiting allied nations such as Vietnam, China, and Laos. He described these countries on social media platform X as "sister nations bound by profound connections and a shared history of cooperation and solidarity that have withstood the test of time and significant challenges. We will keep you updated," he assured.
During this tour, Díaz-Canel will attend commemorations for the 80th anniversaries of the proclamation of independence and the establishment of what was then the Democratic Republic of Vietnam, as well as the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the Global Anti-Fascist War, according to the Cuban Presidency.
The Cuban leader is expected to meet with his counterparts to foster the advancement of bilateral cooperation, pursue the execution of existing agreements, and expedite the joint construction of the "Cuba-China Community of Shared Future," as stated in the official reports.
Accompanying Díaz-Canel on this tour are Bruno Rodríguez Parrilla, Minister of Foreign Affairs; Emilio Lozada García, a member of the Central Committee and head of its International Relations Department; and Oscar Pérez-Oliva Fraga, Minister of Foreign Trade and Foreign Investment.
Seeking Aid Amidst Domestic Hardships
In the midst of Cuba’s deep-rooted societal crisis, this tour is likely another attempt by Havana to seek assistance from its allies. Recently, it was revealed that a solidarity campaign in Vietnam managed to collect a donation of $14 million for Cuba in just a few days. This campaign, running until October 16, underscores the robust diplomatic ties between the two nations. However, it also highlights how the Cuban regime continues to lean on the narrative of international solidarity, despite the fact that millions within the island confront extreme poverty, collapsed healthcare systems, and a persistently declining quality of life.
Escaping Reality Through Diplomatic Visits
Throughout 2025, Díaz-Canel has turned his international visits into a diplomatic escape from the harsh realities at home. In May, he visited Russia, where he met with Jinping and raised a glass at a lavish banquet in the Kremlin, while bread was being rationed in the Caribbean nation. Shortly after, he traveled to Belarus amid an energy crisis on the island, presenting Lukashenko with cigars, rum, and commemorative T-shirts, symbols of an authoritarian friendship that fails to light even a single bulb in Havana.
Now, his itinerary includes China, a nation with which the Cuban regime has strengthened military and political ties in recent years, amidst growing allegations of Chinese espionage facilities on the island.
Key Questions on Cuba's Diplomatic Relations and Domestic Crisis
What is the purpose of Díaz-Canel's tour to China, Vietnam, and Laos?
The tour aims to strengthen bilateral cooperation, implement existing agreements, and accelerate the building of a "Cuba-China Community of Shared Future."
How is Cuba's current domestic crisis influencing its international relations?
Amidst economic hardships and societal challenges, Cuba is seeking aid from its allies, as evidenced by a Vietnamese campaign raising $14 million for the island.
Why are Díaz-Canel's international visits seen as a diplomatic escape?
These visits are perceived as attempts to divert attention from Cuba's domestic issues, as Díaz-Canel engages in diplomatic activities abroad while facing severe crises at home.