Continuity and changes in Cuba's foreign policy toward Japan (1959-2023)

Abstract

After the triumph of the Revolution, Cuba had to diversify its economy and promote the export of sugar to other markets, finding in Japan an important commercial partner. A decade later, Japan became Cuba's second largest trading partner and both economic and political exchanges reached their best stage. Relations between the two countries have gone through different stages, according to the national and international conditions of each period. Since the election of Miguel Díaz-Canel Bermúdez as President of Cuba, bilateral relations have remained stable, focused on the promotion of economic and commercial relations, bilateral political dialogue and multilateral coordination. In line with the internal changes of the Island and the international context, Cuba's foreign policy towards Japan has as a priority the diversification of relations, not only in political and economic issues, but also cultural, academic, sports, scientific; as part of the policy of creative resistance of President Díaz-Canel.