The Mexican navy announced that two sailboats, the Friendship and the Tigger Moth, carrying at least 9 crew members of various nationalities, departed on 20/3 from Isla Mujeres in Quintana Roo, southeastern Mexico.

The boats were transporting solar panels and humanitarian aid, including: medicine, food, and technical equipment, with an expected arrival in Havana, Cuba on 24/3 or 25/3.

However, there has been no communication or confirmation of the vessels' arrival in Cuba. Mexico has deployed ships and aircraft for the search, and has also issued notices to regional naval commanders and search and rescue stations.

The two sailboats departing from Mexico on 20/3 for Cuba. *Photo: Reuters*.

A spokesperson for Nuestra America Convoy, a global alliance helping organize aid shipments to Cuba, confirmed that the two boats are part of the group's relief fleet.

"The captains and crew are experienced mariners. Both boats are also equipped with appropriate safety systems and signaling devices," the Nuestra America Convoy spokesperson stated, adding that the group is cooperating with officials and remains confident in the crew's capabilities.

According to Nuestra America Convoy, neither vessel has sent a distress signal.

The Mexican navy did not specify the identities or nationalities of the crew members on the two vessels but stated it is maintaining contact with rescue agencies in Poland, France, Cuba, and the US. The force is also using aircraft to search the waterway between Isla Mujeres and Havana.

In february, Mexico also dispatched two naval ships carrying 1,193 tons of aid to Cuba. Mexico's Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that the country continues its tradition of solidarity with Latin American peoples, especially the Cuban people.

The Mexican navy's ship Papaloapan carrying aid to Cuba departing Veracruz port on 24/2. *Photo: Reuters*.

Since january, the US has blocked most oil supplies from Venezuela and Mexico to Cuba. This has led to severe energy shortages on the island, resulting in prolonged power outages and skyrocketing food and transport prices.

Ngoc Anh (According to Reuters, CBS, AFP)