Pretoria - President Jacob Zuma has thanked Cuba for its support as the country mourns the loss of former President Nelson Mandela.
Zuma today had a consultative meeting with Cuban President Raul Castro at his Mahlamba Ndlopfu residence in Pretoria.
“We’ve just had a consultation with the (Cuban) President… (He) has been able to brief me about what is happening in Cuba and Latin America in general…
“I thank the President and his delegation for coming to mourn with us… without Cuba as our old friend, the whole thing will not be complete.”
The President said Cuba played an important role in Africa, particular in Southern Africa, in the realisation of the liberation of its states.
Zuma also used the opportunity to brief the Cuban leader about developments in South Africa and the continent.
“We discussed the bilateral relations between our two countries, and we are very happy with how it is going.
“We are very happy with our engagement this morning. It has been absolutely positive and very helpful for us to brief each other about the situations in both our countries and the regions where we come from, as well as global matters.”
Speaking through a translator, Castro said: “The President said everything and I fully share what the President has just told you. I am very happy that our relations are continuing to develop. We are brothers and sisters.
“…Cuba is part of Africa and Africa is part of Cuba and the Caribbean.”
Castro is in the country to pay tribute to the late South African statesman, Nelson Mandela, who died at his Houghton home on December 5.
Madiba will be buried on Sunday, 15 December, at his home village of Qunu in the Eastern Cape. - SAnews.gov.za
