CUT and Free State Provincial Government co-hosted a public lecture on the diplomatic relations between Cuba and South Africa dating back to 1994. His Excellency, Cuban Ambassador, Carlos Fernandez de Cossio presented the lecture; covering areas of the strong political ties between the two nations, US hostility towards Cuba and the international call of solidarity. He said that Cuba and South Africa enjoy strong political relations, as they share the goodwill of their respective peoples.
“In Cuba we are immensely thankful for the South African Government, all South Africans and their organisations for the solidarity that has been expressed. It is our hope for that solidary to continue and to be strengthened. Every step that we can advance to take advantage of these bonds will translate into benefits for the people of Africa and for the international cooperation as a whole. In celebrating 20 years of our diplomatic relations, we believe our two nations is a living symbol of friendship between people and nations,” he concluded. In his address to the audience Premier Ace Magashule said that about 181 students are studying medicine in Cuba. He attributed the fruits of this active partnership to the contribution made by Cuban people so that South Africans enjoy freedom and justice. "Together with Cuban people we can make a better contribution towards the world order and transform the world into an oasis of justice and freedom." said Premier Magashule. Prof. Thandwa Mthembu, Vice-Chancellor and Principal said that the lecture was, indeed, very educative, insightful and inspiring. “The idea behind our public lecture series is to have space and opportunity to reflect and debate some important issues of our university, our country and the world. This time around, it was about gaining a deeper understanding of the historical links between South Africa and Cuba; the socio-economic conditions of Cuba and its relations with the U.S. Not many of us will be steeped in such matters,” he concluded.
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1: The Ambassador from Cuba-His Excellency, Carlos Fernadez de Cossio.
2: Mr Phel Parkies; Chief Whip of ANC in the Legislature, Honourable Ace Magashule, Premier of Free State Province; His Excellency, Carlos Fernandez de Cossio, The Ambassador of Cuba, Ms Connie Rampai, Deputy Mayor of Mangaung Metro and Prof. Thandwa Mthembu.
