Zim, Cuba celebrate 45 years of good ties

Blessings Chidakwa-Herald Reporter

ZIMBABWE and Cuba celebrated their long-standing diplomatic relationship spanning 45 years at Heritage Village in the Liberation City in Harare on Monday, highlighting decades of collaboration in healthcare, education and agriculture. Both governments reaffirmed their commitment to solidarity and shared values of independence and self-determination.

The Cuban delegation was led by the president of the National Assembly Esteban Lazo Hernandez.

Speaking on behalf of Cuba during the commemorations, president of the Cuban Institute of Friendship Fernando Gonzalez emphasised that his country would continue to stand with Zimbabwe.

Cde Gonzalez said the strong bonds that have united the two nations since their diplomatic relations were formalised in 1980, were guided by principles of solidarity, mutual respect, and a shared fight for justice and sovereignty.

“This anniversary of diplomatic relations is a testament to the strength of a friendship that has withstood the passage of time and the challenges of a world where egoism often prevails, and the interests of powerful nations dominate,” he said.

“Our peoples walked together in the fight against colonialism, and today they march together in creating opportunities through mutual solidarity to ensure that our two peoples benefit from their resources and talents”.

Cde Gonzalez acknowledged Cuba’s health and education collaborators in Zimbabwe, who have been instrumental in counteracting sanctions.

“We thank you, and we are immensely proud of your work. Zimbabwe, like Cuba, has felt the weight of coercive and unilateral measures imposed by external forces seeking to undermine our sovereignty and right to self-determination,” he said.

Cde Gonzalez reiterated Cuba’s unwavering support for Zimbabwe in its fight against economic, commercial, and financial blockades imposed by the United States.

“As you have heard, Cuba has been re-included on a list of States allegedly linked to terrorism by the new U.S. government. This unjust measure seeks to tarnish the image of a country that has dedicated its efforts to peace, co-operation, and international solidarity,” he said.

Cde Gonzalez also expressed gratitude to the Cuban Solidarity Movement for its support in the fight against unjust policies.

“You have raised your voices demanding an end to the blockade and have stood by us in our most difficult moments. This shows the empire that we are not alone,” he said.

“On this 45th anniversary of our brotherhood, we reaffirm our commitment to continue working together for a fairer and more just world, where we respect creation and promote peace.”

Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade Sheillah Chikomo said the visit was a clear testament to the close relations between the two sister republics.

“These relations were forged in the 1960s and 1970s when we were comrades in arms during our liberation struggle. At that time, Cuba embraced Zimbabwe’s liberation cause, training our combatants and providing arms and materials for our fight,” she said.

“After supporting us in the struggle for freedom, Cuba was among the first countries to recognise Zimbabwe as a sovereign nation, underscoring its belief in our right to self-determination.”