Vietnamese President To Lam (R) receives President of the National Assembly of People's Power of Cuba Esteban Lazo Hernandez (Photo: VOV)

During the reception, President Lam said the Cuban delegation’s presence is a clear manifestation of the comradeship, brotherhood, and special friendship between Vietnam and Cuba, as well as the warm feelings Cuban leaders and people have for General Secretary Trong personally.

Hernandez respectfully conveyed the deep condolences of the Party, State, NA and people of Cuba to their Vietnamese counterparts over the passing of the Party leader. He praised the contributions of the General Secretary to the cause of national protection, construction, and development and to preserving, cultivating and developing the special brotherhood, faithful solidarity, traditional friendship and comprehensive cooperation between Vietnam and Cuba. He said the passing of General Secretary Trong is not only a great loss to the Party, State, and people of Vietnam and to Trong’s family, but also to the Party, State and people of Cuba.

On this occasion, Cuba wants to strengthen cooperation with Vietnam in strategic areas like agriculture, renewable energy, and tourism, and will strive to remove difficulties for Vietnamese businesses in Cuba, he added.  

President Lam said Vietnam always supports the revolutionary cause of the Cuban people and deepening the friendship and comprehensive cooperation between the two Parties and countries.