Cuban National Day celebrated in capital

New Delhi, July 26 (UNI) Politicians, diplomats and the common people today joined hands to celebrate the National Day of Cuba in the capital.

CPI (M) General Secretary Prakash Karat, CPI General Secretary A B Bardhan and Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman Rahman Khan paid rich tributes to the resilience of the Cubans against ''American imperialism'' while calling for greater friendship and solidarity with the people of Cuba.

''Cuba has a special place in the hearts of we Indians,'' said Mr Karat, who is visiting Cuba along with Mr Bardhan next month to join the 80th birthday celebrations of Cuban President Fidel Castro.

''We have never ceased to admire Cuba,'' said Mr Bardhan, who praised the Cubans for withstanding ''US economic blockade'' and going on to help other poor countries in Latin America.

Saluting Cubans on their 53rd National Day, Mr Rahman said Cuba was ''an example of commitment and determination even when pitted against a mighty country''.

''This is an opportunity for us to learn from Cubans how to fight against imperialist policies,'' said Forward Bloc leader G Devarajan.

Earlier, Cuban diplomat Niurka Herrera Torres kicked off the celebrations at the Kerala House narrating the sufferings of Cubans since they gained independence more than half-a-century ago.

Organised by the National Committee for Solidarity with Cuba, the National Day celebrations witnessed participation from trade unions and political parties.

The National Day was also celebrated as a 'Solidarity Day' across the Asia-Pacific today.

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