Cuba’s ambassador to Angola, Oscar León, expressed his gratitude on Saturday to the people of Angola for their solidarity with the Caribbean nation in the face of the blockade imposed by the United States for more than six decades.
During an event in support of the island — organized by the Association of Angolan Former Students Trained in Cuba (“Caimaneros”) and the Association of the Community of Cubans Residing in Angola (ACCRA) — the diplomat expressed his appreciation to those who made the event and a supporting caravan possible.
“Today, we did not just travel through the streets of Luanda; together, we wrote a new and solid chapter in the history of the unbreakable ties that have forged a brotherhood between our two countries,” León stated.
He added that true solidarity stems from the heart and is demonstrated through concrete actions. He reiterated his thanks to the Angolan people for not remaining indifferent to the challenges Cuba faces, and for raising their voices in defense of Cuban dignity, independence, and sovereignty.
He offered special recognition to Angolan President João Lourenço, praising the “clarity and firmness” with which he defended Cuba during his address to the United Nations General Assembly last September—where he denounced the historical injustice endured by the island and rejected the notion that it poses any threat.
The ambassador noted that the Angolan head of state made it clear that the Caribbean nation possesses no nuclear, chemical, or biological weapons that could endanger the security of other countries, while also highlighting Cuba’s valuable contribution to the struggle against apartheid.
León further noted that, in his remarks, President Lourenço described the blockade as an inhumane and unjust policy — one that runs counter to the principles of international law — and emphasized the urgent need for it to be brought to an end.
The Cuban diplomat explained that his country is going through an extremely difficult time, as Washington’s blockade — in place for more than six decades — continues to harm people’s lives. Its effects are felt in hospitals, in access to medicine, and in the availability of food, among other sectors.
“Behind every restriction are individuals, families, children, young people and the elderly who deserve to live with peace of mind, hope and dignity,” the ambassador emphasized. He added that the blockade and unilateral coercive measures are not merely figures in reports or official speeches, but a cruel reality that inflicts suffering and limits the opportunities of an entire nation.
Nevertheless, he affirmed that Cuba continues to persevere, thanks to the effort, creativity, and courage of its people, the solidarity of friends — such as the people of Angola — and a firm determination to defend its independence and its inalienable right to determine its own destiny.
“We are not here to ask for privileges; we demand justice, plain and simple. We defend Cuba’s fundamental right to live free from external pressure, to trade freely, to develop in peace, and to build its future with autonomy and sovereignty,” he stressed.
León also expressed his appreciation that the caravan was dedicated to the upcoming centenary of the birth of the historic leader of the Cuban Revolution, Fidel Castro (1926–2016), and noted the approaching 51st anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries.
“To all those who have stood up for Cuba today, we ask that you continue to share this truth: the Cuban people deserve to live without a blockade—in peace, with dignity, and in full exercise of their right to build their own future,” he concluded.
[ SOURCE: PRENSA LATINA ]
