She added that this support originates from the two countries’ traditional friendship. "Cuba has sent antiviral drugs to Vietnam, which have proved to be effective in the fight against COVID-19 in Cuba and many countries worldwide. More than 80 countries have placed their orders for this antiviral drug. A number of Cuban experts have also arrived in Vietnam to share their experiences fighting the epidemic. They are ready to travel in Vietnam if needed, including Da Nang, to assist the fight against COVID-19," said Ms. Rivera.

Ambassador Lianys Torres Rivera stressed that she feels secure in Vietnam. 

"Vietnam has been very successful in containing the COVID-19 pandemic and its initial success has been praised by the international community. In this second wave of the epidemic outbreak with many complicated developments, I believe Vietnam will soon overcome this challenge with the government’s resolute actions, the professionalism of the medical staff, and the wholehearted support of the Vietnamese people," said Ambassador Rivera. 

The Cuban Ambassador said she believes that the two countries’ cooperation in fighting COVID-19 will help enhance traditional ties, especially in medicine and pharmacy, opening new cooperative prospects for both sides.

On Wednesday, Cuba handed over thousands of vials of its antiviral drug to Vietnam to assist the fight against COVID-19. The drug, Interferon alfa-2b, produced by Cuba to European standards, induces the human body to produce antibodies against the novel coronavirus. The drug could play a vital role in treating severely ill COVID-19 patients. Meanwhile, Vietnam has sent 3 tonnes of medical equipment to Cuba which includes fast test kits and medical face masks.