On March 18, 2025, Vietnam and Cuba held a pivotal meeting aimed at strengthening their publishing cooperation, marking another step forward in their long-standing friendship. Key participants included Rogelio Polanco Fuentes, the Cuban Ambassador to Vietnam, and several Vietnamese officials, including Nguyễn Nguyên, the Director of the Publishing, Printing and Issuing Department, and Bùi Tuấn Nghĩa, Director of Kim Đồng Publishing House. This gathering underscored the mutual respect and cultural connections shared between the two countries.
Ambassador Rogelio Polanco Fuentes opened the meeting by reflecting on his childhood fondness for José Martí's book ‘Dạo chơi trên đất An Nam’ (A Stroll through the Land of Annam), which intricately detailed Vietnam's history and culture. He remarked, "I have always remembered the book ‘Dạo chơi trên đất An Nam’ written by José Martí about Vietnam." This statement not only highlights his personal connection to Vietnam but also serves as an illustration of the enduring bonds nurtured through literature.
During the meeting, Nguyễn Nguyên expressed Vietnam's warm sentiments toward Cuba, asserting, "Vietnam has always considered Cuba as close brothers." This statement encapsulates the collaborative spirit between the two nations, emphasizing their desire to boost publishing cooperation through sharing valuable information and resources, exploring new publishing trends, and translating important literary works.
Bùi Tuấn Nghĩa, representing Kim Đồng Publishing House, declared the organization's commitment to facilitating exchanges between Vietnamese and Cuban children’s literature. He stated, "Kim Đồng is ready to accompany and publish Cuban children's books to Vietnamese children and vice versa." This initiative aims to enrich the literary experience for young readers on both sides, promoting cultural dialogue and mutual appreciation.
The Vietnam Writers’ Association, represented by its Chairman, Nguyễn Quang Thiều, also expressed strong support for the partnership. He pledged broader initiatives for translating and promoting Cuban literature within Vietnam, saying, "The Vietnam Writers’ Association will be the bridge to translate and introduce outstanding Cuban literary works to Vietnamese readers." This collaboration hopes to bring significant Cuban literary achievements, such as those recognized by the prestigious Casa de las Américas Prize, to new audiences.
This meeting was not only about immediate initiatives but also served as part of the broader celebration of the 65th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Vietnam and Cuba. The event is characterized as being deeply rooted in the goals of promoting solidarity and cultural enrichment.
To demonstrate the momentum behind these literary movements, the meeting also underscored recent collaborations between Vietnamese publishing entities and various countries. Notably, Chibooks successfully launched two Vietnamese literary works targeted at Chinese audiences back in November 2024. Following this, another significant milestone occurred when Nhà xuất bản Xây dựng signed a cooperation agreement with China’s Nhà Xuất bản Giao thông Nhân dân (Transportation Publishing House) earlier this year.
The collaborative projects discussed during this meeting signal not just literary exchanges but the hope for cultural diplomacy. It reflects both nations' commitment to fostering peace and friendship through the power of literature and education.
Discussions at the gathering revealed various proposed initiatives, such as joint literary festivals and translation projects, aimed at engaging younger audiences. By fostering these connections, both countries eagerly anticipate enriching their cultures and promoting greater mutual respect and solidarity.
Literary collaboration is pivotal as it transcends geographical boundaries, and the interest shown by both countries highlights their dedication to consolidative efforts aimed at enhancing friendship. The framework laid out at this meeting promises to yield fruitful outcomes, enriching both Vietnamese and Cuban cultures through literature.
With mutual respect and admiration, this partnership symbolizes the power of literary connection, and as both nations look forward to increased collaboration, they are grounded firmyl in their shared histories and cultures.
These exchanges not only bolster the literary scenes of both countries but also embrace the call for unity amid global challenges. Through shared stories and translations, the hopes and values of each nation will resonate across borders, forging stronger ties for the future.
