Young officers from Việt Nam People’s Army and Cuba’s Ministry of the Revolutionary Armed Forces at the dialogue. — Photo qdnd.vn

HÀ NỘI — A friendship exchange and dialogue between young officers of the Việt Nam People’s Army (VPA) and Cuba’s Ministry of the Revolutionary Armed Forces (MINFAR) was held in Hà Nội on Friday.

The Cuban delegation is paying an official visit to Việt Nam from November 26 to December 8.

The event was co-chaired by Lieutenant Colonel Nguyễn Quang Huy, head of the Youth Department under the VPA's General Department of Politics, and Colonel Fernando Quivillet Loyola, head of the Political Department of the MINFA’s Eastern Command.

Huy noted that the exchange takes place as the two countries are preparing for the 65th anniversary of diplomatic relations in 2025. He stressed that these activities play an important role in educating younger generations of both armies about the traditional friendship and special solidarity between Việt Nam and Cuba, while deepening bilateral defence cooperation.

He highlighted the sincere and enduring affection that young Vietnamese officers have for the Cuban people, adding that many participants once studied or worked in Cuba and achieved outstanding results. Recalling the 65-year history of the special relationship, he affirmed that the younger generations of both nations, particularly of their militaries, have the responsibility to preserve and strengthen this unique bond for the benefit of both peoples.

Given the complex global and regional landscape, Huy underlined the need for both armies to intensify political and ideological education and translate major orientations agreed upon by high-level leaders of the two Parties, States and militaries into concrete cooperation.

He proposed that Việt Nam and Cuba continue to expand young officer exchanges to create more opportunities for sharing experience and fostering mutual trust. He also suggested closer coordination in communication, ideological work and theoretical research to promote deeper understanding of the importance of Việt Nam-Cuba solidarity.

Further cooperation should also focus on enhancing professional capacity in areas such as science and technology research, innovation, digital transformation, military medicine, cybersecurity and information technology, supported by joint workshops and exchanges, he added.

Colonel Fernando Quivillet Loyola said the visit and dialogue offer a unique opportunity for young officers of both countries to meet - an event that transcended borders, language, and generations. He affirmed that the relationship between the two countries is built not only on tradition but also on a shared vision for the future, with younger generations committed to nurturing the special Việt Nam–Cuba solidarity.

He expressed his hope that the event will inspire young officers to strengthen cooperation and continue learning from one another. — VNA/VNS