Luanda, November 21 (RHC-PL) -- Angola's Defense Minister Joao Gonzalves, held official talks on Thursday with Cuban ambassador Gisela García, to discuss topics of mutual interest, especially related to cooperation in the areas of defense and security.

Following the meeting, the Cuban ambassador said the contact served to strengthen even more the friendship between the two countries, taking into account the historical ties that join the two peoples and governments.

“The Cuban government has always stood side by side with the Angolan people in the hardest times of fighting against invading forces,” she added.

More than 4,000 Cubans are part of cooperation programs in Angola, especially in the areas of health care and education.

Cooperation was also gradually expanded to the fields of energy, water resources and veterinary services.