PM expresses condolence on Castro death

Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe yesterday released a condolence message on the death of Cuban revolutionary leader Fidel Castro and praised him for pioneering the global non-aligned movement.  

The following is his statement.

Fidel Castro truly was one of the 20th century’s greatest personalities who pioneered the concept of non-alignment throughout the world. The path of social development he chose for Cuba, although not always in line with the political beliefs held by the United National Party, was much admired by us; in particular, the processes he utilised to enhance the potential of educational, housing and health sectors in Cuba were exemplary.

If I may recall, the late President J. R. Jayawardena and Fidel Castro were great friends; President Jayawardena always sent a pack of specially chosen tea from Sri Lanka to his friend and received a choicest Cuban cigar from Castro in return.

Fidel Castro walked the talk and lived by the principles he believed in. His contribution towards the freedom struggles of South Africa and Angola stand testimony to his larger than life presence on the world stage.

Cuba has maintained diplomatic relations with Sri Lanka since 1959 and has been a great friend Sri Lanka could count on.

In remembering Fidel Castro, let me extend my deepest sympathies to the people of Cuba on the loss of a statesman the international community will remember as one who truly inspired the world.