PHOTOS: 7th Africa-Cuba Solidarity Conference kicks off in South Africa with promise to always stand with Havana

The 7th Africa-Cuba Solidarity Conference kicked off today in White River, Mpumalanga, South Africa, as delegates from across Africa gathered to strengthen ties and discuss matters of mutual interest between Africa and Cuba.

Monday’s event, scheduled from January 15 to 17, 2024, drew high-profile participants, including ANC Deputy President Comrade Paul Mashatile, the President of the Cuban Institute of Friendship with the Peoples (ICAP) Fernando Gonzalez, Cuba’s Ambassador to South Africa Enrique Orta Gonzalez, and South Africa’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Dr Naledi Pandor. Solidarity movements were formed to express support for Cuba in the face of an unjust US blockade on the island nation.

ANC Deputy President Comrade Paul Mashatile

In his keynote address, ANC Deputy President Comrade Paul Mashatile expressed deep gratitude to the Cuban people for their unwavering support during challenging times in South Africa’s history. He highlighted the longstanding solidarity between the two nations and emphasized the debt of gratitude owed to Cuba for standing by South Africa during moments of need.

South Africa’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Dr Naledi Pandor (L) greets Cuba’s ambassador to South Africa H.E Enrique Orta Gonzalez

Mashatile’s address underscored the historical alliance between South Africa and Cuba, which dates back to the struggle against apartheid.

Mr Fernando Gonzalez President of the Cuban Institute of Friendship with the Peoples (ICAP)

The Deputy President acknowledged the Cuban people’s contributions to South Africa’s liberation and praised the enduring friendship that has continued to flourish in the post-apartheid era.

The President of the Cuban Institute of Friendship with the Peoples (ICAP), Fernando Gonzalez, spoke on behalf of the Cuban delegation, expressing the commitment to further strengthening the bonds of solidarity between the two nations. He emphasized the importance of such conferences in fostering collaboration, cultural exchange, and mutual understanding.

Father Michael Lapsley, honorary president of the friends of Cuba society in South Africa expressed the firm support of the South African people to the Cuban cause

Cuba’s Ambassador to South Africa, Enrique Orta Gonzalez, and South Africa’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Dr Naledi Pandor, also participated in the conference as prominent delegates.

South Africa’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Dr Naledi Pandor

Their presence highlighted the significance of diplomatic relations between the two nations and the shared commitment to advancing cooperation in various fields.

The 7th Africa-Cuba Solidarity Conference is expected to feature discussions on a range of topics, including economic cooperation, healthcare partnerships, cultural exchanges, and strategies for addressing global challenges.

The event symbolizes the ongoing commitment of both Cuba and Africa to maintain and strengthen the enduring friendship that has defined their relationship over the years.

As the conference progresses, participants aim to build upon the foundation of mutual respect and solidarity, exploring new avenues for collaboration and shared prosperity.

It also brings together solidarity movements from across Africa to reiterate their commitment to the friendship with Cuba while advocating for the elimination of the US economic blockade against Cuba.