分类： politics

In a significant ceremony held at the José Martí Memorial, Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel Bermúdez, also the First Secretary of the Central Committee of the Party, led the centenary celebration of the First Communist Party of Cuba. The event underscored the party’s foundational role in the nation’s history, likened to a vital ring in the trunk of a tree symbolizing Cuba’s national development. Rigoberto Santiesteban Reina, President of the Institute of Cuban History, emphasized the party’s mission to guide the proletariat under the ideological trends that have shaped the country’s quest for profound changes, blending the best of independence traditions and Marxism. Elvis Raúl Rodríguez, PhD in Historical Sciences and Vice-President of the IHC, highlighted the pivotal moment of August 16, 1925, marking a qualitative leap in Cuba’s years of struggle. The ceremony also featured the inauguration of a photographic exhibition allegorical to the date. Earlier, President Díaz-Canel visited ‘All the Glory of the World,’ a photographic exhibition by Alex Castro, which opened on August 13 at the Memorial. The event was attended by key political figures, including José Amado Ricardo Guerra, Member of the Political Bureau and Secretary of the Council of Ministers, and other leaders from the Party, the UJC, the Revolutionary Armed Forces, and the Ministry of the Interior.

Fidel Castro Ruz, the historic leader of the Cuban Revolution, is celebrated as a staunch advocate for multilateralism and a tireless champion of global peace. His vision transcended mere rhetoric, emphasizing that true peace required a radical restructuring of the United Nations system to ensure equitable representation for all nations, irrespective of their political or ideological affiliations. Castro’s speeches, particularly his landmark address at the UN General Assembly in 1960, underscored the necessity of eradicating neocolonialism, economic exploitation, and systemic injustices to achieve lasting peace. He argued that peace was inseparable from social justice, sovereignty, and the end of colonialism. His influence extended beyond words, as he spearheaded concrete actions such as Cuba’s internationalist missions, which provided medical, educational, and military support to developing nations. Castro’s leadership in the Non-Aligned Movement further solidified his commitment to fostering unity among Southern countries against Northern economic domination. His legacy continues to inspire social movements, progressive leaders, and nations striving for a more equitable world order. The Cuban government remains steadfast in its pursuit of inclusive multilateralism and global peace, embodying the principles Castro championed throughout his life.

The Communist Party of Cuba (PCC) and the Young Communist League have announced the Granma Rebelde International Festival, set to take place in Havana from October 17 to 20, 2025. This landmark event commemorates the 60th anniversaries of Granma and Juventud Rebelde, two iconic newspapers established by Fidel Castro, the revered leader of the Cuban Revolution. The Festival aims to serve as a dynamic platform for political, academic, cultural, and grassroots exchanges, fostering dialogue, solidarity, and cooperation grounded in critical thought. It will address pressing global challenges to peace and social justice, uniting participants in a shared commitment to progressive ideals. The event invites communist, left-wing, and progressive youth organizations, social movements, media outlets, and academic and cultural institutions to join in confronting media manipulation and imperialist tactics that distort realities and fuel fascism and neocolonialism. Granma and Juventud Rebelde, steadfast in their dedication to truth and unity, have played pivotal roles in advancing Cuba’s socialist project. The Festival will culminate on October 20, coinciding with Cuban Culture Day, and will also honor the upcoming centennial of Fidel Castro’s birth in August 2026. Additionally, Havana will host the 3rd International Meeting of Theoretical Publications of Left Parties and Movements from October 15 to 17, providing a vital forum for discussing emerging political theories and practices. The PCC and Young Communist League eagerly anticipate welcoming participants to Havana for this historic celebration.

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.

Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez has conducted a series of high-level diplomatic meetings during the 76th session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York. The senior diplomat engaged with prominent international counterparts, including Qatar’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani, and South Africa’s Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Naledi Pandor.

Through his official Twitter account, Minister Rodríguez expressed considerable satisfaction with the current state of Cuba’s political relationships with both nations. The discussions, held within the framework of the UNGA’s high-level segment running through September 27th, focused on strengthening international cooperation and bilateral partnerships.

Regarding the meeting with Qatari officials, Rodríguez emphasized the positive development of political relations between Havana and Doha. In his separate engagement with South African representatives, the Foreign Minister highlighted the excellent condition of bilateral relations, noting the historical friendship and solidarity between the two nations that has been notably strengthened throughout the challenges presented by the global pandemic.

These diplomatic exchanges form part of Cuba’s ongoing efforts to maintain and enhance its international relationships through multilateral forums like the United Nations, where matters of global significance are addressed through diplomatic dialogue and cooperation.

Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez has utilized his official Twitter platform to announce a concerted diplomatic push to deepen economic and cooperative relationships with partner nations. The declaration comes as the minister participates in the high-level segment of the 76th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York, a premier gathering for global diplomacy set to conclude on September 27th.

Minister Rodríguez is actively engaging in a series of bilateral meetings with his counterparts from various nations on the sidelines of the assembly. This practice is a standard feature of the annual UN event, providing a critical forum for high-ranking dignitaries and diplomatic envoys to conduct in-person negotiations and strengthen multilateral ties.

The broader context of these diplomatic exchanges is the UNGA’s high-level general debate, where the international community’s focus is sharply trained on two paramount global challenges: the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and the escalating climate crisis. These overarching themes are shaping discussions and fostering alliances aimed at crafting coordinated international responses.

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.