The presentation of this high distinction, awarded at the proposal of the Cuban Friendship Institute (ICAP), took place within the context of the “From Australia to Cuba with Love” campaign launched by Sue and Lachlan four years ago.

The purpose of the initiative is to bridge the gap between Havana and Canberra by various means and, at the same time, raise funds to help develop projects in Cuba.

“This is a well-deserved award, for so many years defending the cause of Cuba, uniting wills in its favor, and demanding the end of the economic, financial, and commercial blockade imposed by the United States for more than six decades,” the diplomat emphasized.

Dieguez thanked both the honorees and those present at the ceremony for their affection and solidarity with the Cuban people, and conveyed a message of greeting from ICAP President Fernando Gonzalez.

The Friendship Medal was also awarded earlier to Maree Dellora, head of the Cuban Friendship Society (ACFS) in Melbourne, and to Elizabeth Hulms, a member of the Communist Party Central Committee and a prominent activist and close friend of the Cuban Revolution.

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