Monday, November 25, 2024 A vibrant event showcasing Cuba’s tourism and culture took place at the Grand Kempinski Hotel Shanghai on November 22, alongside the China International Tourism Mart. Organized by the Ministry of Tourism of Cuba and the Cuban Consulate General in Shanghai, the gathering focused on strengthening ties and exploring new possibilities between China and Cuba. The evening celebration drew a wide array of participants, including Cuban officials, representatives from travel agencies and hotel groups, and two distinguished Cuban athletes.

The Cuban delegation was led by Jorge Alberto Garcia Domínguez, Cuba’s First Deputy Minister of Tourism. Notably, the event featured Mijaín López, celebrated as one of the greatest wrestlers in history. López, a five-time Olympic gold medalist and world champion, highlighted how tourism serves as a vital tool for economic growth and for deepening the connection between China and Cuba.

In May of this year, Cuba introduced a visa-free policy for Chinese citizens with ordinary passports, unveiled during the 2024 Cuban International Tourism Fair (FITCuba). Shortly after, Air China inaugurated direct flights between Beijing and Havana, symbolizing a pivotal moment in the growing relationship between the two nations. Looking forward, 2025 will commemorate 65 years of diplomatic relations between China and Cuba.

To honor this occasion, Havana will host FITCuba 2025 from May 1 to May 5, with China taking the spotlight as.