Cuba asked the United States to help restore oil storage in Matanzas province, which was devastated after the fire, causing 16 deaths.

The Cuban Foreign Ministry on August 26 said that the support requirement was given in the online meeting earlier this week between experts of the two countries to find a way to cooperate to restore seriously affected areas.

Matanzas oil warehouse fire broke out on the night of 5/8 when lightning struck one of 8 oil tanks in Matanzas province, about 100 km east of Havana from Havana.

The flame and black smoke column rising from the oil store in Matanzas, northwestern Cuba, on August 6.

A total of 4 out of 8 tanks, each with a capacity of 52 million liters of fuel, was burned down in the fire.

The Cuban Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the Cuban delegation asked about the most creative techniques and processes used by the US Environmental Protection Agency as well as companies related to oil and other agencies.

The US previously gave technical advice through the phone.

Built in the 1980s, Matanzas is considered the foundation for Cuba's fuel logistics.

The US cut diplomatic relations with Cuba on January 3, 1961 after the revolution on the island nation won.

Since taking office in January 2017, Donald Trump has tightened the restrictions on Cuba that former President Obama has loosened.

The administration of President Joe Biden in May announced the limitations for Havana was imposed under Mr. Trump, related to traveling and sending money to Cuba.

Cuban officials could not identify 14 firefighters who were killed in the oil warehouse fire in Matanzas due to serious burning bodies.

More than 15,000 Cuba attended the funeral, expressing mourning 14 firefighters sacrificed in Matanzas oil tragedy.