(KPL/Prensa Latina) The Tourism Plus Shanghai 2025 Fair opened here today with the presence of some six thousand exhibitors from more than 140 countries and regions, including Cuba.

The event brings together prominent stakeholders in the global tourism sector and is expected to attract around 450,000 visitors, according to the organisers.

Cuba’s Tourism Counsellor, Elizabeth Vela, and the Consul General in Shanghai, Mileidy Aguirre, represented the island at the opening ceremony and at their country’s stand.

Both exchanged views with Chen Mei Hong, deputy head of the city’s Culture and Tourism Bureau, who expressed her gratitude for Cuba’s participation in the event.

They also discussed the next edition of the International Tourism Fair of Cuba, FITCuba 2025, where China will be the Guest of Honour.

During the opening day of Tourism Plus Shanghai 2025, Jin Lei, who is also the deputy head of the city’s Culture and Tourism Bureau, visited the Caribbean nation’s stand.

During the exchange, the executive expressed interest in continuing to work together to increase the flow of Chinese tourists to the island.

Cuba’s participation in the fair is part of efforts to consolidate relations with the Asian market and promote Cuba as a tourist destination.

Cuba’s Ambassador to China, Alberto Blanco, recently highlighted three unique elements that favour cooperation in this sector: the complementarity between two socialist nations with no conflicts of interest; the stability and security that characterise Cuba; and the special affection and historical admiration and appreciation of the Cuban people for China.

The 43rd edition of FITCuba 2025, one of the largest of its kind in the Caribbean, is scheduled to be held from 30 April to 3 May.

KPL