Cuba is interested in co-operation with BRICS

Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel held a meeting with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov.

Diaz-Canel emphasised the special significance of the ninth visit to the country by the Russian diplomatic chief.

After the dialogue with the Cuban president, Lavrov told correspondents that they decided to strengthen economic, trade and investment cooperation. This is reported by Prensa Latina, a partner of TV BRICS.

"An assessment was made of supplies to Cuba of oil and its derivatives, fertilisers and other resources needed by the country, and Russia's opportunities to expand business on the island were studied," the diplomat said.

He also voiced the prospects for joint cooperation in tourism, supported by the growing number of Russians holidaying there, the use of Russian bank cards in Cuba and the possible expansion of direct flights between Moscow and Havana.

During the visit, Lavrov met with Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez Parrilla.

The Russian foreign minister said after the talks that Cuba was interested in expanding ties with BRICS.

"We have noted the continuing, even growing interest of Cuban friends in interaction with BRICS. Russia, as the country chairing the association this year, will support such a mindset"

Sergey Lavrov Russian Foreign Minister

Lavrov's Latin American tour began with a visit to Havana: from 19 to 22 February, the minister will also visit Venezuela and Brazil, where he will take part in a meeting of foreign ministers of the G20 countries.