Chinese President Xi Jinping said on Friday that China firmly supports Cuba in safeguarding its national sovereignty and opposing foreign interference and blockade.

Xi made the remarks while meeting with Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel on the sidelines of celebrations marking the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Soviet Union's Great Patriotic War. He added that China also supports Cuba's efforts to promote economic and social development.

Noting that Cuba and China are close friends and brothers, Diaz-Canel said Cuba is grateful for China's long-standing and strong support for its economic and social development.