Havana, Cuba | December 21, 2024 — While the Green Zone Foundation’s (GZF) Arabic language initiative in Cuba has captured attention for its cultural and educational focus, it has also laid the groundwork for broader cooperation between Cuba and Qatar across a range of strategic sectors, including tourism, science, and biotechnology.
During his recent visit to Havana, GZF President Darwish Al Shebani held productive discussions with Déborah Rivas, Cuba’s Deputy Minister of Foreign Trade, and Sergio Espinosa, Director of the Directorate of Economic and Trade Policy with Africa and the Middle East. The meetings focused on identifying opportunities for bilateral collaboration and exploring joint initiatives that align with the shared interests of both nations.
Mr. Al Shebani emphasized that cultural diplomacy can serve as a gateway to stronger economic and scientific ties. “Culture is the real and most important investment,” he stated, highlighting GZF’s belief that genuine partnerships are built on mutual understanding and cultural exchange.
The Foundation’s work in promoting Arabic language and cultural awareness in Latin America serves as a powerful platform for fostering long-term collaboration beyond education. By building people-to-people connections, GZF aims to create a more holistic approach to international cooperation—where cultural, economic, and technological exchanges go hand in hand.
This growing dialogue between Cuba and Qatar marks a promising chapter in South-South cooperation, with GZF positioned as a catalyst for initiatives that bring shared value to both regions.