To commemorate the 55th anniversary of diplomatic relationship between China and Cuba, as well as the 162 anniversary of José Martí's birth, a floral tribute to the sculpture of José Martí was held at Beijing Jintai Art Museum on January 30. Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn

Cuban Ambassador Jesus Alberto Blanco Silva said: "Today's cultural event is the beginning of series of events to celebrate the 55th anniversary of the diplomatic relationship between China and Cuba. The relationship the two countries are in the best period due to the deep historical roots, and generations of Cubans and the Chinese people's unremitting efforts.

The success of Chinese President Xi Jinping's visit to Cuba is still vivid in my mind. He was in Havanato accept the 'José Martí' Medal of the Cuban government. President Xi said the sculpture of José Martí in Beijing and Shanghai expresses the friendship which is full of warmth and affection between Cubans and Chinese. For all the Latin America and the Caribbean, it is a great honor to receive the kindly support from Jintai Art Museum."

Beijing Fangcaodi International School students and Cuban teenagers recited "pure poem" of José Martí, and gave floral tribute to the sculpture of José Martí, which was dedicated by Professor Yuan Xikun to Cuba, and it will be placed at Cuban capital Havana.