A fundraising campaign to install solar energy systems in Cuban primary schools has commenced in the Vietnamese capital Ho Chi Minh City, promoted by local organisations, reported Granma newspaper.

During the launch ceremony, the organising committee received initial donations exceeding 1,600 million dong, equivalent to approximately 62 thousand US dollars, according to local media reports.

The initiative is driven by the Union of Friendship Organisations and the Department of Culture and Sports of Ho Chi Minh City, in collaboration with various press outlets.

Nguyen Loc Ha, Vice President of the city’s People’s Committee, described the campaign as demonstrating the friendship between the peoples of Vietnam and Cuba.

In his address, the official referenced energy sector difficulties in Cuba and urged participation in the project.

The project will run until 30 November, coinciding with the 65th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two nations.

Loc Ha emphasised that this initiative will provide better learning conditions for Cuban students and demonstrate Vietnamese solidarity.

Ariadne Feo Labrada, the Cuban Consul General in the city, thanked the gesture as an expression of friendship between both countries.

The campaign opening ceremony was broadcast live on Ho Chi Minh City television and received contributions from a dozen entities, businesses and citizens.