Lavrov met with Fidel, Moscow says

An official statement issued Wednesday (April 30) by the Russian Foreign Ministry says that Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov held an “informal” meeting with Fidel Castro. The Ministry released no photograph of that visit or of Lavrov’s meeting with President Raúl Castro. What follows is a translation by Progreso Weekly of that official statement.

On April 28-29, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation, Sergei Lavrov, visited Cuba.

The Russian Foreign Minister was received by the Chairman of the Councils of State and Ministers of Cuba, Raul Castro, and held talks with Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez. [Lavrov held] an informal conversation with the leader of the Cuban Revolution, Fidel Castro.

During the meetings, held in the inherent Russo-Cuban relationship and a friendly atmosphere, the two sides exchanged views on a whole range of issues of bilateral cooperation, including the development of political dialogue, trade and the economy, culture and humanitarian cooperation. Also discussed were current international and regional issues of mutual interest.

The Cuban leadership has confirmed its support of Russia’s position in relation to the events in Ukraine, categorically declaring itself against double standards and sanctions. The parties stressed their complete convergence of approaches in regard to strengthening multilateralism in world affairs, multipolarity and mutual respect.

Lavrov again outlined Russia’s position of principles on the need to end the economic, commercial and financial blockade imposed by the United States against Cuba.

The sides discussed specific aspects of coordinating actions on the international arena, and spoke in favor of strengthening cooperation between Russia and the countries of Latin America, including their integration associations. They expressed their mutual desire to further strengthen bilateral cooperation in line with their strategic partnership.

Moscow, 30 April 2014