Cuba's Finlay Vaccine Institute and Vietnam's Vabiotech signed an agreement to transfer technology for the final production stages of the VA-MENGOC-BC vaccine. This deal solidifies two decades of fraternal cooperation between the nations. It marks a key step in scientific solidarity amid economic blockades.
In a milestone bolstering bilateral ties, Cuba's Finlay Vaccine Institute (IFV) and Vietnam's Vabiotech vaccine and biological products company signed a technology transfer agreement yesterday for the final production stages of the VA-MENGOC-BC vaccine. The deal builds on over two decades of joint work in biotechnology.
IFV director Yury Valdés Balbín shared on his Facebook account that this pact stands as the most significant and complex technical challenge tackled together. "It embodies the transformative power of science when built on solidarity between nations," he wrote. He emphasized that shared scientific capabilities and mutual trust developed over 20 years enabled this achievement.
For Cuba, the agreement reinforces science as an effective shield against the U.S.-imposed economic, commercial, and financial blockade. It showcases national innovation able to overcome global barriers and build alliances grounded in respect. Valdés Balbín described it as a concrete alternative to the force, blockades, and wars that hegemonic powers aim to enforce.
For Vietnam, the deal enhances public health self-sufficiency, accelerates its national biotechnology sector, creates skilled jobs, and supports prosperity in line with its goals of independent and sovereign development. This collaboration highlights how South-South partnerships can yield mutual progress amid worldwide challenges.