Celebrating 65 Years of Cuban Revolution: Grand Reception by Cuban Embassy in Algiers Marks Enduring Bonds

BY: Dr. Hana Saada

Algiers, January 29, 2024- In a splendid event held at the iconic El Djazaïr Hotel in Algiers, the Cuban Embassy in Algeria orchestrated a grand reception on January 28th, 2024, marking the 65th anniversary of the triumph of the Cuban Revolution. The distinguished gathering included prominent figures such as H.E. Mrs. Kaouter Krikou, Minister of National Solidarity, Family, and the Status of Women, H.E. Mr. Abdelhak Saihi, Minister of Health and President of the Algeria-Cuba Intergovernmental Commission.

The Cuban Ambassador to Algeria, H.E. Mr. Armando Vergara Bueno, warmly welcomed the attendees and expressed his pride in the enduring and strong ties between the two nations.

In a heartfelt expression of gratitude, H.E. Mr. Armando Vergara Bueno, began his speech by extending sincere thanks to the management of El Djazaïr Hotel for their warm hospitality. The ambassador emphasized the significance of the historic venue, formerly known as Saint-George, which holds a wealth of history within its walls.

Ambassador Bueno took a poignant trip down memory lane, recalling the pivotal role El Djazaïr Hotel  played in the diplomatic history between Cuba and Algeria. He fondly noted that in February 1963, this prestigious hotel hosted the first Cuban Embassy in Algiers, a historical moment that resonates to this day. The embassy remained within the confines of El Djazaïr Hotel for three months before relocating to a new headquarters.

The celebration coincided with the 171st anniversary of the birth of José Martí, the National Hero of Cuba. Ambassador Vergara Bueno highlighted Martí’s enduring impact, emphasizing concepts such as “Homeland is Humanity,” which continue to shape the ideals of the Cuban Revolution.

The Ambassador passionately addressed the challenges faced by Cuba, including a relentless economic war and a criminal blockade lasting over 60 years, imposed by the US government. Despite these adversities, Cuba has achieved remarkable social milestones and extended solidarity globally, contributing three effective vaccines during the fight against Ebola and the Covid19 pandemic.

Reflecting on the historical ties between Cuba and Algeria, the Ambassador recalled Cuba’s unwavering support for Algeria’s fight for independence. He recognized the significant visits, including Che Guevara in July 1963, the dispatch of the first internationalist medical mission in May 1963, and the arrival of the Cuban military contingent in September of the same year to aid Algeria against Moroccan aggression in the so-called war of the sands.

The roots of the profound friendship were further solidified through the seven visits by Fidel Castro Ruz and Algerian leaders such as Ahmed Ben Bella, Houari Boumediene, Chadli Bendjedid, and Abdelaziz Bouteflika. Ambassador Vergara Bueno expressed pride in the shared history, acknowledging the presence of Algerian friends who were protagonists in the early years of the diplomatic ties.

The Ambassador highlighted recent developments, including the historic visit of Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel in November 2022, leading to the XXIII session of the Intergovernmental Commission and a significant Business Forum in Havana in February 2023. These events opened new avenues for cooperation in health, energy, pharmaceuticals, culture, tourism, and sports, among other fields.

A special acknowledgment was extended to the Cuban Medical Brigade providing services in Algeria, as well as the medical and pedagogical brigades aiding in the Sahrawi refugee camps in Tindouf. The Ambassador renewed the solidarity of the Cuban Revolution with the causes of the Sahrawi and Palestinian peoples, condemning the ongoing atrocities in Gaza and the West Bank committed by the Zionist entity.

Recognizing the shared values and coordinated efforts on the international stage, the Ambassador commended Algeria’s active role as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council and expressed gratitude for the support received throughout the years, both in lifting the blockade and advancing Cuba’s development.

“Cuba and Algeria find common ground on key international issues, displaying effective coordination in forums such as the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM), G77-China, and the Human Rights Council (HRC). Recently, we transferred the presidency of the G77+China to the Republic of Uganda, extending our best wishes for success. Concurrently, we acknowledge Algeria’s proactive role as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council since the beginning of this year. Gratitude is expressed for the unwavering solidarity received from Algeria, not only in the quest to lift the blockade but also in the joint efforts for Cuba’s development,” highlighted the Ambassador.

The Ambassador wrapped up his speech by expressing gratitude to all contributors to the evening’s celebration, including the Cuban Embassy team and collaborators. He announced the imminent end of his mission in Algeria, extending heartfelt thanks to the Algerian authorities and the fraternal Algerian people for their affection and appreciation.

“In emphasizing the global context, it is asserted that the world requires equilibrium, collaboration, and solidarity more than ever, discouraging further conflicts and wars. Recognition is extended to all contributors who made the celebratory evening possible, including the dedicated team at the Cuban Embassy in Algeria, comprising both Cubans and Algerians. A sincere thank you is extended to everyone, with hopes that the attendees enjoy the music and distinct Cuban cultural elements during this unique Cuban night in Algeria,” he added.

In a heartfelt acknowledgment, the ambassador and his wife Madam Miriam express gratitude to the Algerian authorities and the fraternal Algerian people, noting that their exciting stay in Algeria has left an indelible mark.

With an inspiring call for solidarity and cooperation, the Ambassador fervently extended wishes for the prosperity and development of Algeria and the future of both Cuba and humanity.

The ambassador’s concluding words resound with the spirit of friendship and solidarity, proclaiming: Viva Cuba, Viva Algeria, Long live the indestructible friendship between Cuba and Algeria. The evening’s festivities continued with captivating cultural performances, featuring Cuban songs and a tantalizing array of culinary delights, enriching the shared experience between Cuba and Algeria.

As the celebration unfolded, it became a testament to the enduring bonds between Cuba and Algeria, symbolizing a shared history, solidarity, and a commitment to a future of prosperity and development. The event echoed the sentiments of “Viva Cuba, Viva Algeria, Long live the indestructible friendship between Cuba and Algeria.”

Cuban Ambassador to Algeria Extols Enduring Bonds and Envisions Prosperous Collaboration: A Celebration of Revolutionary Ties

On the sidelines of the grand celebration, H.E. Mr. Armando Vergara Bueno, the Cuban Ambassador to Algeria, granted an exclusive interview to Dzair Tube. In his remarks, he expressed profound gratitude to the distinguished attendees who graced the reception event, commemorating the significant occasion of the Cuban Revolution. The diverse audience included officials, government representatives, ministries, the public, and friends from various associations and civil society organizations.

Reflecting on the historical relationship between Cuba and Algeria, Ambassador Vergara Bueno underscored its significance, hailing Cuba as the first country in the Western Hemisphere to recognize the provisional Algerian government. This historical connection, rooted in the support provided by the Cuban people under the leadership of the iconic figure of the Cuban Revolution, Fidel Castro, laid the groundwork for a deep and enduring bond.

Anticipating new horizons in bilateral relations, the Ambassador emphasized the commitment to strengthening ties between the two nations. He acknowledged the historical roots established during Fidel Castro’s leadership, particularly in supporting Algeria’s struggle for independence.

Looking ahead, Ambassador Vergara Bueno expressed Cuba’s readiness for collaboration, emphasizing a commitment to mutual benefit. He highlighted the vast opportunities for growth in the new era of bilateral relations and affirmed Cuba’s preparedness to explore and maximize these prospects.

In a heartfelt message, the Ambassador extended deep appreciation and thanks to the Algerian people. He conveyed a special greeting to the Algerian population and the audience, expressing genuine gratitude for their consistent support and engagement with the channel. The Ambassador concluded by expressing optimism for the future, envisioning strengthened collaboration, mutual understanding, and shared prosperity between Cuba and Algeria as they celebrate their revolutionary ties.

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