India-Cuba Business Conference Strengthens Trade, Diplomacy, And Cooperation In Pharmaceuticals, Biotechnology And Education

The India-Cuba Business Conference held in New Delhi marked a significant step towards strengthening economic, trade and diplomatic ties between the two countries. Organised by the Indian Economic Trade Organization (IETO), the event brought together high-ranking officials, business leaders and industry experts from both countries with the aim to promote cooperation in key sectors such as pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, renewable energy, education and trade.

The conference was also attended by His Excellency Dr. Eduardo Martinez Diaz, Deputy Prime Minister of Cuba and His Excellency Juan Carlos Marsan Aguilera, Ambassador of Cuba to India. Dr. Asif Iqbal, Global President of IETO, Adv. KG Anil Kumar, CMD of ICL Fincorp, Goodwill Ambassador of the Latin American Caribbean Council and Dr. Sanjay Mishra from the Department of Biotechnology, Ministry of Science and Technology, Government of India were also present. The event also welcomed senior officials from the Ministry of Science and Biotechnology of Cuba and key representatives from industries including healthcare, agriculture, tourism and energy.

Addressing the gathering, His Excellency Dr. Eduardo Martinez Diaz, Deputy Prime Minister of Cuba, emphasized the historic ties between India and Cuba and the immense potential for economic cooperation. Cuba and India have always stood by each other in times of need. Our nations share a vision of progress, sustainability and inclusive growth. This conference is a step towards deeper cooperation in areas that matter most- healthcare, renewable energy and trade. We look forward to leveraging India’s strengths in technology and investment to promote sustainable development in Cuba.

Also Read: IACC's Conference Celebrated Women's Empowerment, Honoring Leaders For Contributions In Education

H.E. Juan Carlos Marsan Aguilera, Ambassador of Cuba to India, reiterated the commitment to enhance economic ties. He further said, India has been a trusted friend of Cuba and our partnership continues to grow stronger. With the support of the Indian Economic Trade Organization and various industry stakeholders, we are looking forward to a new era of business cooperation. From pharmaceuticals to trade, the opportunities are immense, and we are committed to working together to make these initiatives a success.

The event also saw significant discussions on strengthening scientific research and biotechnology collaboration. Dr. Sanjay Mishra, Department of Biotechnology, Ministry of Science and Technology, Government of India, highlighted the immense potential for collaboration in biomedical research, vaccine development and biotechnology-based solutions. Cuba’s advancements in biotechnology and pharmaceuticals are recognised globally. India, with its strong research infrastructure and industrial capabilities, is keen to collaborate in areas such as vaccine production, disease prevention and joint scientific research. We look forward to fostering closer ties between our scientific communities for the greater benefit of both countries.

The Indian Economic Trade Organization (IETO) has played a key role in enhancing India-Cuba trade relations, having opened several trade offices in collaboration with the Cuban Embassy to facilitate business collaboration. Dr. Asif Iqbal, Global President of IETO, emphasised IETO’s commitment to fostering strategic partnerships. Cuba presents a wealth of opportunities for Indian businesses in pharmaceuticals, biotech and energy. At IETO, we are actively working on facilitating business delegations, building business partnerships and ensuring seamless investment flows. The establishment of trade offices will serve as a catalyst for new enterprises, and we look forward to a stronger, more dynamic economic relationship with Cuba.

A highlight of the event was the discussion on how Indian and Cuban businesses can leverage each other's strengths across various sectors. Pharmaceutical collaboration was particularly interesting, with Indian companies showing interest in Cuba's advanced biotechnology and vaccine research. Speaking on the wide scope of collaboration, ICL Fincorp CMD KG Anil Kumar, Goodwill Ambassador of the Latin American Caribbean Council, remarked, “This is a defining moment in our trade relationship with Cuba. The conference highlights Cuba's untapped potential and reaffirms India's role as a reliable partner in promoting economic growth. Our goal is to facilitate strategic alliances that will benefit both countries' industries, from agriculture and raw materials to energy and healthcare.”