In Beijing, the Cuban Embassy organized an event commemorating the 95th birthday of General Raúl Castro, which gained political significance with the expressions of support for Cuba from Chinese authorities. The gathering brought together representatives of the Chinese Communist Party, diplomats, and academics amidst increasing US pressure against the island.
The event took place at a time of escalating tensions between the United States and Cuba, with new economic and energy sanctions, as well as increased diplomatic and legal pressure on Cuban authorities. In Washington, the rhetoric of “regime change” resurfaced. Cuba and its allies, for their part, denounce a policy of coercion and blockade that they consider a violation of sovereignty and international norms.
The ceremony also began with a symbolic moment: the playing of the national anthems of Cuba and China. Throughout the event, musical performances of Chinese and Cuban songs were presented, in a cultural program that reinforced the tone of rapprochement between the two countries.
The Cuban ambassador to Beijing, Alberto Blanco, inaugurated the ceremony, highlighting Raúl Castro’s legacy as a continuation of the Cuban Revolution. “Army General Raúl Castro Ruz dedicated his life to the cause of the independence, sovereignty, and dignity of the Cuban homeland, and he represents an example of revolutionary steadfastness for our people,” he stated.
Shortly afterward, Ma Hui, Vice Minister of the International Department of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China, condemned the accusations made by the United States against Raúl and criticized the economic blockade imposed on Cuba. “China systematically opposes illegal unilateral sanctions that lack a basis in international law or authorization from the UN Security Council, as well as the abuse of judicial mechanisms and external pressure against Cuba under any pretext,” he declared.
The president of the China Social Sciences Publishing House, Ji Weimin, also emphasized the historical nature of the relationship between the two countries. “The publication of works dedicated to the life of Raúl Castro reflects not only academic interest but also the deep bond of friendship between China and Cuba, forged over decades of cooperation and mutual respect,” he stated.
During the event, the book “Raúl Castro: Revolutionary Life,” a Chinese edition of Nikolai S. Leonov’s work on the life of the Cuban leader, was presented. Published by China Social Sciences Press, it was presented as part of the cultural exchange between China and Cuba and as a symbol of the rapprochement between the two countries in the publishing and academic fields.
In conclusion, the Chinese government reaffirmed its support for Cuba in defending its sovereignty and national integrity, reinforcing the continuity of the alliance between the two countries. The event concluded as a tribute to the life of Raúl Castro and, at the same time, as another political gesture in the relationship between Beijing and Havana amidst international disputes.
“A Life Dedicated to the Revolution”
Before Chinese authorities, diplomats, and guests, the Cuban ambassador, Alberto Blanco, opened the ceremony, highlighting the political nature of the celebration of Raúl’s 95th birthday.
“We are gathered today to celebrate together the 95th anniversary of Army General Raúl Castro Ruz, leader of the Cuban Revolution. It is an immense honor for me to speak these words on behalf of our people, Party, and Government, on the occasion of the celebration of the fruitful life, work, and legacy of a man who has dedicated more than six decades to the cause of the independence, sovereignty, and dignity of the Cuban homeland,” he stated.
Throughout his remarks, the ambassador highlighted Raúl Castro’s role in preserving the historical memory of the Cuban Revolution and in consolidating the political process that began in 1959, emphasizing his work in protecting documents, records, and testimonies related to the revolutionary trajectory.
“Since the triumph of the Revolution, he has shown special care in preserving the documentation, testimonies, and objects linked to its history. Through his personal example, he inspired our people in times of crisis.”
IMAGE CREDIT: One of the highlights was the launch and distribution of the Mandarin edition of the biography “Raúl Castro – Revolutionary Trajectory,” based on the work of Russian writer Nikolai S. Leonov. Photo: Bruno Falci / teleSUR
[ SOURCE: teleSUR ]
