Premier Li Keqiang stressed China-Cuba friendship during a meeting with a senior Cuban official when he arrived at the airport in Havana, the capital of Cuba, on Sept 24 for an official visit to the country.

Premier Li was welcomed at the airport by Miguel Diaz-Canel, first vice-president of the Cuban Council of State and the Council of Ministers.

China and Cuba have enjoyed a traditional friendship and solid political mutual trust, and pragmatic cooperation in all sectors is under way, according to Premier Li.

He said that he hopes to have an in-depth communication with Cuban leaders on bilateral relations and issues of common concern, as well as the coordination of development plans and pragmatic cooperation between China and Cuba that will push further development of China-Cuba relations and cooperation to bring benefits to the people of both countries.

Diaz-Canel endorsed Premier Li’s high appreciation of the China-Cuba relationship. He said that the Premier’s visit has historical significance, which will further promote China-Cuba relations and the development of the two countries, and create a bright future of bilateral ties. At present, Cuba is striving for upgrading of its economic model, said Diaz-Canel, who hoped China continues to participate in Cuba’s social and economic development. He also wished Premier Li’s visit full success.

Cheng Hong, Premier Li’s wife, also attended the meeting.