“Despite all the difficulties created by detractors, and despite attempts to slow the pace of our cooperation through intimidation and political blackmail, we have not given up, nor will we. We plan to continue progressively strengthening our comprehensive bilateral strategic partnership,” Ryabkov said following a commemorative event marking the centenary of the birth of Cuban Revolution leader Fidel Castro.
“Russia has always stood—and will continue to stand—by Cuba, and we are ready to lend a helping hand to our Cuban brothers,” the senior diplomat affirmed while speaking to the press beside the statue erected in Moscow’s Sokol district in memory of the distinguished revolutionary.
Regarding US sanctions on the island, the senior diplomat noted that they are “a sign of weakness” that will not break the will of the Cuban people. Moscow, he emphasized, rejects this policy and expresses its unwavering solidarity with Cuba.
Ryabkov also praised “the firmness and courage of the Cuban authorities in defending their sovereignty and pursuing an independent foreign policy.”
In his view, Russia and Cuba have shown together, “once again, that no sanction can prevent natural dialogue between peoples and cultures, nor the attraction between people who share a spiritual affinity.”
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