The Ministers of Higher Education of Cuba, Walter Baluja, and of Education of Brazil, Leonardo Barchini, expressed their shared goal today in this capital of expanding academic, scientific, and technological collaboration.
During the meeting, both agreed on the need to revitalize ties to a level similar to or greater than that which existed during previous progressive Brazilian administrations.
Together with the president of the Coordination for the Improvement of Higher Education Personnel, Denise Pires, they signed the public notices (editorials) that will allow for the implementation of new cooperation projects in strategic areas for the development of both countries.
Previously, Barchini welcomed the visiting delegation, which also included the Director of International Relations of his Ministry, María Victoria Villavicencio; the Ambassador to Brazil, Víctor Cairo; and Counselor Indira Herrera.
He highlighted the achievements of the Cuban education system, which, he emphasized, serve as examples for many countries, and expressed interest in learning about the current situation on the Caribbean island, which is subject to an energy blockade and threats of military aggression from US President Donald Trump.
Barchini mentioned sectors with high potential for joint work, such as renewable energy, and referred to efficiency programs being developed at Brazilian federal universities using these sources.
For his part, Baluja offered an overview of the Cuban higher education system and its main priorities, in a context marked by economic and energy challenges.
He emphasized that his nation’s 50 universities, among more than 11,000 educational institutions in general, are fundamental pillars in the training of professionals and scientific research.
He recalled that there had been extensive academic exchange between the two countries in the past and stressed the importance of building upon the positive experiences in this area.
As Prensa Latina confirmed, the meeting demonstrated the willingness of Cuba and Brazil to deepen their ties at the level of teaching and research, and to take advantage of the potential to promote projects for mutual benefit.
[ SOURCE: PRENSA LATINA ]
