Cozumel, Quintana Roo — The Venezuelan training ship Simón Bolívar arrived Wednesday in Cozumel, where it was welcomed with traditional music, folk dances, and displays of fraternity between Mexico and Venezuela in a festive atmosphere of cultural exchange.
During the official ceremony at Punta Langosta pier, civil and naval authorities from both countries were present. Representing Quintana Roo Governor Mara Lezama Espinosa, Juanita Alonso Marrufo, director general of the Cozumel Parks and Museums Foundation (FPMC), welcomed Major General Alirio Cruz Ortega, Venezuela’s military attaché in Mexico; Captain Carlos D’ Suze Santos, commander of the AB Simón Bolívar; and the 219 crew members — men and women of Venezuelan youth participating in the 36th Overseas Training Cruise “Seas of Union for Bolívar’s Dream.”
Venezuelan Ambassador to Mexico Stella Marina Lugo highlighted that Mexico and Venezuela share the heritage of indigenous peoples, love for their roots, and libertarian values that unite both nations. She recalled that in 1824, liberator Simón Bolívar was proclaimed a Mexican citizen, a historic symbol of closeness between the two peoples.
Captain Carlos D’ Suze Santos noted that the training ship functions as a floating academic classroom for the formation of naval cadets and as a goodwill ambassador promoting mutual respect among nations. He said these voyages strengthen cultural exchange and tighten the bonds of friendship between Venezuela and Mexico, thanking the Cozumel community for its warm welcome.
Eva Cristina Calderón Mihai, head of chancellery at the Mexican Embassy in Venezuela, emphasized that the ship’s visit represents the closeness and friendship between both countries. Rear Admiral Oscar Antonio González Huerta, commander of the Cozumel Naval Sector, recognized the crew’s commitment as representatives of Venezuela in the world.
The AB Simón Bolívar and Mexico’s ARM Cuauhtémoc are considered sister training ships, both built at the same shipyards in Bilbao, Spain, and sharing the mission of training naval cadets and strengthening international diplomacy.
The arrival of the Simón Bolívar, known as “The Ambassador Without Borders,” has generated excitement among the Cozumel community, which will be able to visit the iconic vessel during its stay on the island. The ship will later depart for Cuba before concluding its voyage and returning to Venezuela.
