分类： politics

In a significant display of diplomatic camaraderie, Major General Pavel Nikolaevich Muraveiko, Chief of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Belarus and first deputy Minister of Defense, emphasized the shared global perspectives between Belarus and Cuba during his first official visit to the island nation. The high-ranking official expressed his gratitude for the warm reception extended by the Cuban people, describing it as a testament to the brotherly relations between the two countries. Speaking at the Cacahual Mausoleum, General Muraveiko highlighted the alignment of both nations’ views on global issues and the military-political landscape, underscoring the importance of exchanging experiences and opinions to bolster bilateral collaboration. His visit, marked by a packed itinerary, included tours of military units and industrial facilities, as well as insights into the training processes at Cuban military academies. The Belarusian delegation also paid homage to Cuban historical figures, including Antonio Maceo and Panchito Gómez Toro, whose remains are interred at the Mausoleum. Army Corps General Roberto Legrá Sotolongo, first deputy minister of the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Cuba, underscored the importance of preserving history as a means of safeguarding national identity. The visit concluded with a mutual commitment to further strengthen the strategic partnership between Belarus and Cuba, rooted in shared values and historical ties.

In a comprehensive interview with Spanish journalist Ignacio Ramonet, Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel addressed the pressing economic challenges facing Cuba, the impact of the U.S. blockade, and the nation’s efforts toward regional integration. The discussion, held at the Palace of the Revolution on May 11, 2024, delved into three key areas: domestic policy, the economy, and international relations.

**Domestic Policy and Economic Hardships**
Díaz-Canel acknowledged the severe difficulties faced by Cuban families, including food shortages, inflation, and public service deficits. He attributed these issues primarily to the U.S. economic blockade, which has been in place for over six decades. The President emphasized that the blockade has intensified under recent U.S. administrations, particularly with the inclusion of Cuba in the U.S. list of state sponsors of terrorism. This has further restricted Cuba’s access to international financial systems and foreign investment.

The President highlighted Cuba’s resilience and creative resistance in the face of these challenges. Despite the blockade, Cuba has managed to maintain social programs and economic activity, albeit at a reduced capacity. Díaz-Canel pointed to the COVID-19 pandemic as a critical moment when Cuba prioritized saving lives, diverting limited resources to healthcare and vaccine development.

**Economic Measures and Future Plans**
Díaz-Canel outlined Cuba’s Macroeconomic Stabilization Program, aimed at addressing inflation, exchange rate issues, and fiscal imbalances. The program, which extends to 2030, focuses on stimulating domestic production, particularly in agriculture, to achieve food sovereignty. The President also discussed the role of micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) in diversifying the economy and fostering innovation.

**International Relations and Regional Integration**
On the international front, Díaz-Canel criticized the U.S. government for maintaining the blockade despite widespread global condemnation. He expressed Cuba’s willingness to engage in dialogue with the U.S. on equal terms but stressed that the blockade must be lifted unilaterally. The President also highlighted Cuba’s participation in regional alliances, such as the Eurasian Economic Union and its aspirations to join the BRICS group, as part of its strategy to counter U.S. hegemony and foster South-South cooperation.

**Regional Challenges and Solidarity**
Díaz-Canel addressed the political and economic crises in Latin America and the Caribbean, emphasizing Cuba’s commitment to regional solidarity and integration. He condemned U.S. interference in the region and reaffirmed Cuba’s support for progressive governments and movements. The President also highlighted Cuba’s contributions to regional health and education, including the deployment of medical brigades to Haiti and other countries.

In conclusion, Díaz-Canel expressed optimism about Cuba’s future, emphasizing the nation’s resilience, creativity, and commitment to social justice. He called for greater international cooperation and solidarity to overcome the challenges posed by the U.S. blockade and to build a more equitable world.

On April 16, 2021, Army General Raúl Castro Ruz delivered a pivotal address at the opening of the Eighth Congress of the Communist Party of Cuba, marking the 60th anniversary of the proclamation of the socialist character of the Cuban Revolution. The event, held under extraordinary circumstances due to the COVID-19 pandemic, underscored Cuba’s resilience and commitment to socialism amidst ongoing challenges, including the U.S. economic blockade and internal economic reforms. Castro highlighted the historical significance of the Revolution, emphasizing its enduring principles and the need for continued unity and ideological firmness. He also addressed the Party’s role in guiding Cuba’s development, the importance of youth engagement, and the ongoing efforts to update the country’s economic and social model. The Congress concluded on April 19, coinciding with the 60th anniversary of Cuba’s victory at Playa Girón, a symbol of the nation’s resistance to external aggression. Castro’s speech reaffirmed Cuba’s commitment to socialism, its defense of sovereignty, and its determination to overcome current challenges through collective effort and innovation.

On April 16, 2021, Army General Raúl Castro Ruz delivered a pivotal address at the opening of the Eighth Congress of the Communist Party of Cuba, marking the 60th anniversary of the proclamation of the socialist character of the Cuban Revolution. The event coincided with the commemoration of the 1961 victory at Playa Girón, a defining moment in Cuba’s resistance against U.S.-backed aggression. Castro’s speech highlighted the historical significance of the Revolution, its enduring principles, and the challenges facing Cuba today. He emphasized the importance of unity, ideological firmness, and the need to adapt to contemporary global realities while preserving socialist values. Castro also addressed Cuba’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the country’s economic reforms, and the ongoing U.S. economic blockade, which he described as the most comprehensive and prolonged economic war ever waged against a nation. He underscored the resilience of the Cuban people and the necessity of strengthening the Party’s role in guiding the nation’s development. The Congress concluded with a reaffirmation of Cuba’s commitment to socialism, sovereignty, and international solidarity, particularly with Latin America and the Caribbean. Castro’s address served as both a reflection on Cuba’s revolutionary legacy and a roadmap for its future, emphasizing the importance of generational leadership transitions and the continued defense of socialist principles.