Sports Exchange Contributes to Enhance Vietnam-Cuba Friendship

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The event received the presence of Rogelio Polanco Fuentes, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Cuba to Vietnam; Vu Hai Ha, Member of the Party Central Committee and President of the Vietnam–Cuba Friendship Association; Nguyen Nam Hai, Vice President of the Hanoi Union of Friendship Organizations; and Nguyen Van Hay, President of the Vietnam–Cuba Friendship Association of Hanoi.

Also in attendance were representatives from the Embassy of the Russian Federation in Vietnam, along with over 40 delegates and athletes representing various government agencies, friendship organizations, and enterprises.

Nguyen Nam Hai (fourth from right), Vice President of the Hanoi Union of Friendship Organizations, presented souvenir flags to the athletes. (Photo: Dinh Hoa)

Speaking at the event, Nguyen Van Hay, President of the Vietnam–Cuba Friendship Association of Hanoi, stated that sports serve not only as a platform for physical training but also as a bridge that connects people regardless of geographical, cultural, and linguistic barriers. The tournament welcomed athletes from various friendship organizations, agencies, and units engaged in people-to-people diplomacy at both the central and Hanoi city levels. It provided a valuable opportunity for participants to exchange, learn, and build connections. At the same time, it served as a chance to promote the image of Vietnam as a friendly and hospitable country to international friends.

According to Nguyen Van Hay, in response to the call by the Central Committee of the Vietnam Red Cross Society to support the Cuban people, the Vietnam–Cuba Friendship Association of Hanoi mobilized its members, affiliated agencies, and Hanoi residents who cherish Cuba to take part. This activity vividly reflects the loyal and enduring affection between the two peoples, embodying the spirit of “in times of hardship, understanding deepens.” Though modest in value, the gift carries profound spiritual significance, offering strength and heartfelt encouragement to the Cuban people during challenging times.

At the event, Nguyen Van Hay presented a donation of VND 50 million to the Cuban Ambassador to Vietnam, which will be sent to the Cuban people.

Nguyen Van Hay (second from left) hands over the donation to the Cuban Ambassador to Vietnam (third from left) to be transferred to the Cuban people. (Photo: Dinh Hoa)

Ambassador Rogelio Polanco Fuentes expressed his heartfelt gratitude for the support extended by the Vietnam–Cuba Friendship Association of Hanoi, as well as for the initiative launched by the Central Committee of the Vietnam Red Cross Society. He affirmed that the historic relationship between Vietnam and Cuba has remained strong over the past 65 years, continuously thriving across various fields, including sports. The Ambassador shared his honor in attending the tournament and expressed his hope that sports and cultural exchange activities will continue to play a vital role in deepening the friendship between the peoples of Vietnam and Cuba.

Athletes participated in the competition. (Photo: Dinh Hoa)

After many hours of exciting competition, the 2025 Vietnam–Cuba Friendship Pickleball Tournament concluded with thrilling matches. The Organizing Committee presented First, Second, and Third prizes to teams with outstanding performances in both the mixed doubles and men's doubles categories.

Nguyen Nam Hai, Vice President of the Hanoi Union of Friendship Organizations (middle) awarded the First prize to the two teams. (Photo: Dinh Hoa)

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