The Ambassador of Cuba in Lebanon H.E. Mr. Manuel Serrano presented a lecture on March 31, 2011 within the framework of a series of lectures for the 2010 – 2011 academic year, given by the ambassadors of Latin America in Lebanon, organized by the Higher Institute of Political and Administrative Sciences and the Center of Studies and Cultures of Latin America at USEK, under the theme of: “Foreign Policy – Latin America and its Relations with the Middle East”.

The Ambassador underlined at the beginning of his lecture the various aspects of the Cuban foreign policy, considering that “the foreign policy of any country is closely associated to its internal policy”, mentioning the country’s major pillars: defending peace, disseminating anti imperialism, promoting peaceful coexistence, etc., mentioning that Cuba has so far established diplomatic relations with 187 countries. He underlined as well that Cuba pays special attention to its bilateral relations with the countries of Latin America and the Caribbean by promoting cooperation agreements, particularly in the fields of healthcare and education. The Ambassador also tackled the relations with the Middle East, in particular with Lebanon, pointing out that diplomatic relations between the two countries go back to 1950, and are distinguished by mutual solidarity and respect. “We have signed a number of agreements in various fields which all aim at promoting bilateral relations in terms of sports, culture, health and other fields…We also offer annually a number of scholarships to Lebanese students from different religions and political backgrounds. And as part of our foreign policy, we maintain close relations with various political parties, as well as with social, cultural and academic institutions”, the Ambassador added.