Cuba Strengthens International Ties with Russia and the EU

Cuba has recently taken significant steps to strengthen its international ties, particularly with Russia and the European Union, in a bid to revitalize its economy. According to OnCuba News, direct flights between Moscow and Holguin have resumed after more than four years of suspension due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This resumption is seen as a crucial move to boost Cuba's tourism sector, which has been severely impacted by the pandemic and subsequent economic challenges. A Nordwind Airlines aircraft recently landed in Holguin, marking the return of this important travel route, which connects Russia with one of Cuba's main tourist destinations. The Russian embassy confirmed this development, highlighting the strategic importance of Russian tourists for Cuba's economic recovery. Despite the government's goals to attract 2.6 million tourists by the end of 2025, recent statistics reveal that Cuba had only welcomed about 1.26 million international tourists by August 2023, showing a decline of 21.6% compared to the same period in 2024. The country's tourism recovery lags behind other popular destinations like Cancun and Punta Cana, further emphasizing the importance of re-establishing connections with key markets such as Russia.

In addition to strengthening ties with Russia, Cuba is also enhancing its relationship with the European Union. OnCuba News reports that the EU has launched a call for funding of up to 40,000 USD for agro-food initiatives in Cuba. This initiative, part of the project 'Support for New Economic Actors for a Diversified, Innovative, and Sustainable Economy', aims to promote sustainable production, job creation, and technological innovation in the agricultural sector. This program is particularly focused on supporting micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises, as well as non-agricultural cooperatives in various regions of Cuba. The EU's effort aligns with Cuba's goals of boosting food sovereignty and enhancing its local economies in line with sustainable development strategies.

The new funding opportunity is set to open from November 21 to December 19, 2025, inviting proposals from agricultural actors across Cuba. The selection process will be conducted impartially by multidisciplinary teams, ensuring transparency in awarding the funding. This initiative follows an earlier stage of the program that successfully selected ten agro-food initiatives in eastern Cuba, already demonstrating positive results in economic diversification and local inclusion. This funding is part of a broader strategy by the Cuban government to engage with international partners to address the pressing economic challenges facing the island and to leverage external support for local development initiatives.

In summary, Cuba is actively working to strengthen its international partnerships with Russia and the EU to aid in its economic recovery. The resumption of flights from Russia aims to revitalize the tourism sector, while EU funding initiatives seek to boost local agricultural production and enhance food security. These strategic moves reflect Cuba's efforts to navigate its economic challenges through international cooperation.