Hanoi, August 17, 2025 – The Europe Today: A fundraising programme titled “65 Years of Vietnam – Cuba Solidarity” has mobilised 249.9 billion VND (over 9.5 million USD) by Saturday noon, with more than 1.15 million contributions—nearly four times the set minimum target.
Nguyễn Hải Anh, General Secretary and Vice President of the Vietnam Red Cross Society (VRCS), which is leading the national campaign, said that immediately after its launch on August 13, millions of people across the country had joined the effort. Within just 48 hours, donations surpassed 200 per cent of the initial goal, exceeding 130 billion VND (5.1 million USD). This, Anh noted, demonstrates the special place Cuba holds in the hearts of the Vietnamese people.
The VRCS Central Committee is coordinating with the Cuban Embassy in Việt Nam, the Cuban Red Cross, the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, and relevant ministries and agencies to ensure the donations are transferred to the Cuban people in a timely and transparent manner.
Anh described the campaign’s outcome as a reflection of the enduring solidarity and loyalty of the Vietnamese people towards Cuba, as well as their trust in the VRCS to effectively channel humanitarian support. He expressed gratitude to all contributors and emphasised the collective spirit and humanitarian values shown by Vietnamese citizens both at home and abroad.
He also affirmed that the donation process will remain fully transparent, with account statements publicly released from Saturday. Anh voiced hope that this strong spirit of solidarity will continue to mobilise resources for Cuba, reaffirming to the world the steadfast friendship between Vietnam and Cuba.
The campaign, organised by the VRCS in coordination with ministries and central-level agencies, is part of the Vietnam–Cuba Friendship Year marking the 65th anniversary of diplomatic ties (1960–2025). Running for 65 days from August 13—coinciding with the 99th birth anniversary of Cuban leader Fidel Castro—until October 16, 2025, the programme aims to support the Cuban people with food, essential goods, and sustainable humanitarian activities.
