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China and Cuba Discuss Agricultural Cooperation Amid US Sanctions

other · 2026-05-27

In Beijing, Zhang Zhili, the Vice-Minister of Agriculture and Rural Affairs of China, engaged in discussions with Telce Gonzalez, Cuba’s Deputy Agriculture Minister, to assess ongoing agricultural initiatives and identify potential new partnerships. The Cuban embassy in China facilitated this meeting, which highlighted agriculture as a key focus in their bilateral relationship and aimed at enhancing collaboration to foster a "community of shared future." This conversation supports China's commitment to assist Cuba, which encompasses rice deliveries and diplomatic support, especially as the Trump administration escalates sanctions and criticism towards Havana. Additionally, a federal indictment in Miami has charged former Cuban President Raúl Castro, 94, with conspiracy to murder US nationals and four counts of murder, representing the first criminal charges against a Castro sibling in the US.

Key facts

  • Chinese Vice-Minister Zhang Zhili met Cuban Deputy Minister Telce Gonzalez.
  • Meeting reviewed joint agricultural projects and explored new collaboration areas.
  • Cuban embassy described agriculture as a priority in bilateral relations.
  • China provides rice shipments and diplomatic backing to Cuba.
  • Trump administration has increased sanctions and rhetoric against Cuba.
  • Raúl Castro indicted in Miami on charges including conspiracy to kill US nationals and four counts of murder.
  • Indictment is first US criminal charges against a Castro brother.
  • Raúl Castro is 94 years old and brother of late Fidel Castro.

Entities

Institutions

  • Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs (China)
  • Cuban Ministry of Agriculture
  • Cuban embassy in China

Locations

  • China
  • Cuba
  • Beijing
  • Havana
  • Miami
  • United States

Sources