Pretoria - The Presidency has invited all South Africans to show solidarity with the people of Cuba following the passing away of Fidel Castro.
Condolence books, which can be signed by the public, have been placed at the Union Buildings in Pretoria, Tuynhuys in Cape Town and at the offices of Premiers in all provinces.
President Jacob Zuma attended the official mass memorial service on Tuesday in Havana for the late former President Castro, who passed away on Friday, 25 November, at age 90.
President Zuma has ordered that the National Flag be flown at half-mast at the South African mission in Cuba until 4 December 2016.
Castro not only identified with the struggle against apartheid but also inspired the Cuban people to join South Africans in the struggle.
After South Africa gained freedom in 1994, Cuba and South Africa, under President Castro and President Nelson Mandela respectively, formed a strong bond of solidarity and friendship.
President Zuma has reiterated that the people of South Africa share the loss of the Cuban people and stand with them in this time of grief and mourning.
President Zuma has invited South Africans to express their appreciation for the role Cuba played in decolonising Southern Africa and ending apartheid by visiting the Union Buildings, Tuynhuys and the offices of Premiers to record personal or organisational messages.
The books of condolence will be open to the public until further notice.
A significant number of South African individuals and organisations have over a number of years established strong political and cultural relations with Cuban partners and allies. – SAnews.gov.za
