Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum announced this Wednesday that her government will send a second shipment of humanitarian aid to Cuba, following the departure of two Mexican Navy ships last Sunday with more than 800 tons of food and essential items.
During her morning press conference in Mexico City, the president explained that the first shipment “arrives tomorrow (Thursday), the ship returns, and a second shipment will be made,” while also announcing that mechanisms will be put in place to facilitate the participation of civil organizations that promote solidarity collections.
“I know that there are groups in society organizing to collect food supplies, and they can deliver them,” Sheinbaum stated, specifying that the Ministry of the Interior will act as a liaison to coordinate with federal authorities the available space on official shipments.
The Papaloapan ship is transporting approximately 536 tons of essential food items, including milk, meat products, cookies, beans, rice, tuna in water, sardines, vegetable oil, and personal hygiene products.
Meanwhile, the Isla Holbox ship transported more than 277 tons of powdered milk, destined for priority assistance programs.
According to official information, more than 1,500 additional tons of powdered milk and beans remain in government warehouses, awaiting shipment.
The announcement comes as negotiations between Mexico and the United States continue regarding the resumption of oil shipments to Cuba, amid warnings from Washington about imposing tariffs on countries that supply energy to the island.
Sheinbaum confirmed that talks are ongoing and reiterated that Mexico is willing to mediate between Washington and Havana.
Regarding air travel, the president clarified that Mexican flights to Cuba have not been suspended, despite the shortage of aviation fuel in Havana. She explained that Mexican aircraft refuel in Mexico before departing.
The Mexican Foreign Ministry framed the assistance as part of the country’s foreign policy of solidarity and humanitarian cooperation. According to the Cuban government, the energy restrictions imposed by the United States are intended to “strangle the economy” of the island and worsen the living conditions of the population.
IMAGE CREDIT: The Mexican Foreign Ministry framed the assistance as part of the country’s foreign policy of solidarity and humanitarian cooperation. Photo: EFE
[ SOURCE: teleSUR ]
