Mukono, (UG): In a momentous gathering at Uganda Christian University, Cuban Vice President H.E Salvador Valdés Mesa delivered a powerful speech at the Closing of the National Meeting of Solidarity with Cuba on Saturday, January 20, 2024. The event was part of the celebrations marking the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Cuba and Uganda.
Addressing a diverse audience of solidarity advocates, compatriots, and distinguished guests, Vice President Valdés Mesa expressed gratitude for the warm reception in Uganda during his visit to preside over the Cuban delegation to the Summit of the Non-Aligned Movement and the Southern Summit.
Highlighting the significance of the occasion, he remarked, “It is a happy coincidence that my presence in this sister nation coincides with the National Meeting of Solidarity with Cuba.”
During the event, the Cuban Vice President awarded the prestigious Friendship Medal, bestowed by the President of the Republic of Cuba, to the Pan-African Movement Uganda Chapter, recognizing their outstanding contributions to fostering friendship between the two nations.
In addition to the Friendship Medal, the 60th Anniversary Seal of the Cuban Institute of Friendship with the Peoples (ICAP) was presented to Professor Celestino Obúa, Alex Maseréka, Fatumáta Turé, the Association of Ugandan Graduates in Cuba, and the Pan-African Women’s Organization for their dedicated support and solidarity with Cuba. General Muhoozi Kainerugaba was also recognised for his solidarity with Cuba.
Addressing the challenges faced by Cuba, Vice President Valdés Mesa acknowledged the impact of the United States’ economic blockade on the nation’s development. He emphasized the need for continued international support, praising the unwavering solidarity of the African peoples, particularly Uganda, in the face of adversity.
“In these circumstances, where the blockade reaches unprecedented levels of aggressiveness, we appreciate even more the international community’s firm rejection of this policy,” stated the Cuban Vice President.
He urged the global community to work collectively to ease and eliminate the sanctions on Cuba, expressing gratitude for the efforts made by solidarity movements. Recognizing the power of social media, Vice President Valdés Mesa commended supporters for countering misinformation and presenting an accurate portrayal of Cuba’s reality.
The Vice President reiterated Cuba’s commitment to internationalism and friendship, highlighting the enduring relationship with the people of Africa. He emphasized the need to rejuvenate the people-to-people relationship and encouraged further initiatives to support Cuba in breaking economic sieges.
As a testament to ongoing collaboration, Vice President Valdés Mesa announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding for Cleared Trade Exchange with Uganda, demonstrating a proactive approach to enhance relations despite financial restrictions.
In conclusion, he thanked the solidarity activists and reiterated the call for a united front against injustice. “Long live solidarity between Cuba and Uganda! Long live the solidarity of the African peoples!” declared Vice President Salvador Valdés Mesa, receiving a warm applause from the audience as the event concluded on a note of shared commitment and enduring friendship.
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