Discussions are underway to continue a recreation and rehabilitation programme for Russian children in Cuba, Serguéi Ribálchenko, Head of Family and Children’s Affairs at Russia’s Civic Chamber, announced this week.
He further indicated that a group of young people from the Caribbean island will soon arrive in Saint Petersburg as part of their Russian language training. He also advocated for creating a children’s camp uniting youngsters from BRICS countries.
“If children make friends there, this will translate into future connections and relationships,” he explained.
Separately, Vladímir Volkogón, Rector of the State Technical University in the port city of Kaliningrad, proposed organising voyages to Cuba by Russia’s famous sailing ships Krusenstern and Sedov to commemorate Fidel Castro’s birth centenary in 2026. He noted these vessels possess «vast experience in diplomatic activities».
The proposals were presented during the roundtable Russia-Latin America: Seeking New Forms of Cooperation, held this week at the Civic Chamber. This body is dedicated to submitting initiatives to the government that contribute to implementing state policies, including prioritising stronger ties with the transatlantic region. The event was held in collaboration with Russia’s Foreign Ministry, the Russian Academy of Sciences’ Institute for Latin American Studies, and the Rossotrudnichestvo agency.
During the meeting, Russia’s Chief Oncologist at the Ministry of Health, Academician Andréi Kaprin, emphasised the potential for cooperation between the Eurasian nation and its Latin American and Caribbean partners in healthcare. He specifically highlighted cancer diagnostics while conveying Russia’s willingness to train specialists in the sector. He also raised the topics of telemedicine and medical tourism.
Addressing key challenges to resolve between the parties, Tatiana Mashkova, Director of the Russian National Committee for Economic Cooperation with Latin American Countries, stressed the need for better mutual understanding of available offerings. In this context, she highlighted Cuba’s advances in biopharmaceuticals, while noting Chile’s strengths in fields like robotics.
(With information from Sputnik)
