China Sends 15,000 Tons of Rice as Cuba Struggles with Energy Crisis

China has sent 15,000 tons of rice to Cuba as the Caribbean country still faces an economic crisis, fuel shortages, and repeated power outages.

Citing an Anadolu Agency report, Tuesday, May 26 which was launched from the Chinese government media, Monday, the shipment arrived at the Port of Havana on Saturday. The aid was the first phase of China's food aid package for Cuba with a total of 60,000 tons of rice.

Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel Bermudez said in a post on X that his country had received the aid. He praised Cuba's friendship and cooperation with China.

Diaz-Canel called the aid a "noble" form of solidarity. According to Diaz-Canel, the rice will benefit millions of Cubans, including the health and education sectors.

China's ambassador to Cuba, Hua Xin, was present at the handover ceremony for the first phase of the aid. The aid was sent through China's emergency food program for Cuba.

Hua called the shipment of rice an important part of Beijing's support for Havana. He said the cooperation took place amid a complex international situation.

According to Hua, China will continue to encourage practical cooperation with Cuba. Beijing also maintains its support for Cuba's sovereignty and national dignity.

This assistance comes at a time when pressure on Cuba has not eased. The country is facing a fuel crisis after the United States oil embargo was imposed on January 30. Cuba is also experiencing power shortages and repeated blackouts.

China has long opposed U.S. pressure on Cuba. Beijing has called for the lifting of sanctions and restrictions on the country.

US President Donald Trump has repeatedly said Cuba will be the "next" target after military operations against Iran. He also claimed the island nation would soon fail.

For Cuba, the shipment of rice from China is important because it comes at a time when the basic needs of the people are also affected by the energy crisis and supply disruptions. The food aid also shows Beijing's support for Havana amid Washington's pressure.