“This visit is proof of the strengthening of political, economic, and cultural relations between Cuba and Portugal,” stated President of the Portuguese Republic, Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, on arrival in Havana, October 25, where he was received by Deputy Minister of Foreign Relations, Rogelio Sierra.
During his official visit, which will end on October 27, the Portuguese leader will meet with Army General Raúl Castro Ruz, president of the Councils of State and Cuba, among other activities.
Rebelo de Sousa will also lay a floral wreath before the statue of Cuba’s National Hero, José Martí, at the memorial which bears his name in Havana’s Plaza de la Revolución, and give a key note lecture in the University of Havana’s main auditorium.
Upon arrival at Terminal three of José Martí International Airport, the Portuguese President highlighted the good state of diplomatic relations between the two countries and reiterated his nation’s support for the struggle against the economic, commercial and financial blockade imposed on the island by the United States.
“A unanimous vote was recently held in the Portuguese parliament condemning the blockade against Cuba,” he noted.
“I am accompanied by a broad delegation of businesspeople very interested in exploring opportunities and common interests in both countries,” stated the European leader.
Also taking place during Rebelo de Sousa’s visit will be a business encounter which should see beneficial exchanges between representatives from both countries.
As part of a bilateral agreement a Cuban medical brigade has been offering services in the European nation since 2009. There are currently around 40 collaborators working in 28 Portuguese cities.
(Granma)