Pakistan gifts 15000 tonnes of rice to the people of Cuba

In commemoration of the 60th Anniversary of the establishment of Pakistan-Cuba diplomatic relations and as an expression of gratitude for the unprecedented support provided by Cuba to Pakistan after the 2005 earthquake, the Prime Minster of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan announced a gift of 15000 tonnes of rice to the people of Cuba.

The statement of the Prime Minister to this effect has been released to the media today.

A formal ceremony was held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs today, where the Adviser to the Prime Minister on Foreign Affairs, Mr. Sartaj Aziz, made the announcement. The Cuban Ambassador-designate to Pakistan, H.E. Gabriel Tiel Capote, and other Cuban Embassy officials were also present on the occasion.

Pakistan and Cuba enjoy long-standing and time-tested cooperation based on mutual respect and understanding. Both countries have also supported each other at the International forums.

Following the 2005 earthquake in Pakistan, Cuban relief and medical contingent, led by the present Foreign Minister H.E. Bruno Rodriguez Parrilla, provided assistance to the earthquake victims for six months. Cuba also offered 1000 fully funded scholarships to Pakistani students from the earthquake affected areas.

Islamabad
23 December 2015

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