By María Josefina Arce

Cuba and Venezuela maintain relations of brotherhood and solidarity that are an example to the world.

These are ties described by the authorities of the two countries as close and historic, which both sides are determined to continue expanding and strengthening.

Thus, as part of the XVI International Tourism Fair held in Barquisimeto, in the Venezuelan state of Lara, the two countries signed several agreements on tourism.

The agreements refer to the provision of artistic and cultural services of outstanding Cuban groups and restoration works of furniture and real estate with patrimonial value.

These agreements will strengthen the successful collaboration between the two countries in other areas.

Cuba's participation in health and education programs implemented by the Bolivarian Revolution throughout Venezuela, benefiting the most vulnerable sectors, stands out.

Recognized by Caracas is the presence of Cuban health workers in the emblematic Barrio Adentro Mission, implemented by President Hugo Chavez (1954-2013) to bring health care to all citizens.

Thousands of specialists from the Greater of the Antilles have reached the most remote areas of the Venezuelan geography. With the humanism and professionalism that characterizes them, they have brought hope to countless people.

During the COVID 19 pandemic, both nations joined efforts. Cuba sent its Abdala vaccine to Venezuela to immunize the population against the virus.

Cuban experts also contributed to the setting up of a Molecular Biology Laboratory in the state of Miranda.

The Venezuelan government sent to Cuba donations of supplies needed to fight the disease caused by the new coronavirus, in view of the limitations imposed by an intensified U.S. blockade.

Bilateral cooperation also stands out in education. Thanks to the application of the Cuban literacy method "Yo sí puedo" (Yes, I can), the South American nation was declared an Illiteracy Free Territory in 2005 by UNESCO, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization.

Venezuela has accompanied Cuba in its struggle against the U.S. blockade and has always maintained its solidarity aid to the Cuban people.

Cuba and Venezuela march together. There is a close friendship between the two peoples, strengthened after Hugo Chávez became President in 1999, who maintained a close relationship with the historic leader of the Cuban Revolution, Fidel Castro Ruz (1926-2016).