President Raul Castro of Cuba walks with South African President Jacob Zuma while the leader reviewed the formation of the Cuban military forces welcoming him to the Caribbean nation. Cuba and South Africa have longstanding fraternal ties.
Originally uploaded by Pan-African News Wire File Photos
December 9, 2010
Raúl bids farewell to South African President
PRESIDENT Raúl Castro bade farewell to the South African leader Jacob Zuma who, just before leaving from José Martí International Airport, commented that his visit to Cuba affected him very deeply and made him very happy.
In a brief statement to the press he said that he was very content with the meetings with Comrade Fidel and with Raúl. Also he was delighted to have participated in the event commemorating Antonio Maceo, Maceo’s aide Panchito Gómez Toro and the combatants who died fulfilling revolutionary missions.
The South African President praised Cubans’ internationalism and patriotism, "an amazing combination that many people should learn and which distinguishes them from the rest of the world. I am returning home with that lesson to take it to the youth of South Africa," said Zuma before Raúl bade him farewell at the steps of the airplane.
Translated by Granma International
C U B A
Havana. December 7, 2010
Raúl receives the President of South Africa
PRESIDENT Raúl Castro Ruz yesterday received President Jacob Zuma of the Republic of South Africa, who is on an official visit to our country.
Following the official welcome at the Palace of the Revolution, the two heads of state discussed the excellent state of bilateral relationships and jointly proposed to continue strengthening them. They also commented on various current international issues.
During the official talks, the distinguished visitor was joined by Maite Nkoana-Mashabane, South African minister of international relations and cooperation. On the Cuban side, Vice President Esteban Lazo Hernández and Marcelino Medina González, acting minister of foreign affairs, were also present.
Following the talks, President Jacob Zuma was decorated with the José Martí Order, the highest distinction given by the Republic of Cuba, an honor accepted with gratitude by the South African head of state in a brief but emotive speech.
Translated by Granma International
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