Cuban leader calls on Lok Sabha Speaker

New Delhi, Apr 3 (UNI) Several issues confronting India and world at large, such as climate change, rural-urban divide and terrorism, figured prominently in interaction between Lok Sabha Speaker Somnath Chatterjee and Fernando Remirez D'Estenoz, member of the Secretariat of the Communist Party of Cuba, here today.

Mr Remirez, who is also heading the International Department of the Communist Party in Cuba, called on the Lok Sabha Speaker at latter's official residence.

Referring to the success of federal polity in India, Mr Chatterjee stated that despite some acts of terror and divisive politics, India remained united. Tolerance and mutual respect continue to cement bonds among people, strengthening the democratic fabric of the country, he added.

When the Lok Sabha Speaker cited the fact that members in Indian Parliament could speak in 18 languages, which is an example of country's rich linguistic and cultural diversity, "Remarkable" was the reaction from the visiting dignitary.

In response to a specific query on inflation, Mr Chatterjee noted that the rise in the price of essential commodities is presently a cause of great concern among the people. The Speaker hoped that certain measures initiated by the government would soon ease the situation.

When Mr Remirez asked about the India's relationship with Pakistan, the Lok Sabha speaker stated that the people of both countries wanted peace and cooperation and hoped that with the restoration of the democracy in Pakistan, the democratic aspirations of the people would be fulfilled there.

Recalling his recent visit to Cuba, Mr Chatterjee complimented the leadership and the people of Cuba for their achievements against all odds and wished them all success in their struggles to achieve progress without compromising on sovereignty and self-respect.

The Cuban delegation leader invited the Lok Sabha Speaker to visit Cuba and expressing solidarity with their cause. Mr Remirez hoped that India-Cuba relations would improve further in coming days.

He conveyed the greetings from the Presiding Officer of the Cuban Parliament to Mr Chatterjee.

UNI BKS KK RN1723