President Jacob Zuma, relatives of
Nelson Mandela, distinguished dignitaries, fraternal people of South Africa.
Let us pay emotional tribute to Nelson Mandela, the ultimate symbol of dignity and unwavering
dedication to the revolutionary struggle for freedom and justice, a prophet of unity, peace
and reconciliation.
Alongside his comrades in the struggle, Mandela has led his people in the battle against apartheid
to open the way to a new South Africa, a non-racial and a united South Africa in its quest for
happiness, equality and the well-being of all its children--a nation bent on overcoming
the consequences of colonialism, slavery and racial segregation.
Setting an example of integrity and perseverance, Mandela later headed the efforts to eradicate
poverty, reduce inequality, and create opportunities for all.
Mandela has set out an insurmountable example to Latin America and the Caribbean, which
are currently moving towards unity and integration for the benefit of their peoples on the basis
of respect for diversity and convinced that it is only through dialogue and cooperation
that discrepancies can be resolved and a civilized relationship established between those who
think differently.
As Mandela’s life teaches us, only the concerted efforts of all nations will empower humanity
to respond to the enormous challenges that today threaten its very existence.
Cuba, a country born in the struggle for independence and for the abolition of slavery - and whose
children have African blood in their veins - has had the privilege of fighting and building
alongside the African nations.
We shall never forget Mandela’s moving homage to our common struggle, when on the occasion
of his visit to our country on July 26, 1991 he said, and I quote, “the Cuban people
have a special place in the hearts
of the peoples
of Africa.”
I
remember at this moment his bond of affection with Fidel Castro, a symbol of the fraternal
relations between Africans and Cubans.
Fidel has said, and I quote, “Nelson Mandela will not go down in history for the 27 consecutive
years he spent incarcerated without ever renouncing his ideas.
He will go down in history because he was capable of cleaning up his soul from the poison
that such an unfair punishment could have planted there, and for his generosity and
wisdom which - at the time of victory - allowed him to lead with great talent, his selfless
and heroic people, knowing that the new South Africa could not be built on hatred and vengeance.”
Honor and glory forever to the great comrade Nelson Mandela and to the heroic
people of South Africa.
Thank you.