Russian FM in Cuba: Lavrov promises more economic & military support to island nation

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Russia's Foreign Minister, Sergei Lavrov, visited Cuba this week as part of a Latin America tour, promising more economic and military support from Moscow. CGTN's Luis Chirino reports from Havana.

Sergei Lavrov was welcomed by Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez on Wednesday at the foreign ministry building where they held official talks.

Later, during a joint press conference, Lavrov said Moscow will provide economic and military support to Cuba as the U.S. tightens its trade embargo.

SERGEI LAVROV RUSSIAN FOREIGN MINISTER "We will continue to defend the right of the Cuban people to choose their own future, and the ways to develop their country, just as any other people do."

The Russian Foreign Minister, former Cuban president Raul Castro attended the unveiling of the "La Republica" statue-15-meters high, and covered in gold leaf. Restored with Russian support.

High on the agenda-following up on the accords signed by Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel during his 2018 visit to Moscow.

Russia is key partner for Cuba in areas such as the rail road, agriculture, energy and metal, and consumer goods. A recently imported fleet of new Russian taxi vans help move thousands of travelers in the capital Havana.

A symbol of the Kremlin's military support-a visit to Havana just last month by the Russian cruise-missile frigate, Admiral Gorshkov.

For some, Lavrov visit recalled the historic ties between two Cold War allies. You don't have to look far to see reminders of those days-like the iconic Russian embassy building and the old Soviet flag atop this private restaurant on the Malecon, the city's seafront.

LUIS CHIRINO HAVANA "Lavrov's visit reaffirms the long-standing political and cooperation relations between Moscow and Havana."

During the press conference, Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez Parrilla announced an upcoming visit by the Russian prime minister.

BRUNO RODRIGUEZ CUBAN FOREIGN MINISTER "The next visit to Havana by Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev will undoubtedly be an outstanding event, which will allow advance the accords reached with President Putin."

After meeting with President Miguel Diaz Canel, Lavrov left for Rio de Janeiro where he will attend the foreign ministers meeting for the BRICS group of nations-Brazil, Russia, India and China. Luis Chirino, CGTN, Havana.