The President of India, Shri Pranab Mukherjeehas condoled the passing away of former President of Cuba, Fidel Castro Ruz.

In a message to His Excellency Mr. Raul Castro Ruz, the President of the Councils of State and Ministers, the Republic of Cuba, the President said, "It was with great sadness that I received the news of the passing of your brother and Former President of Cuba, President Fidel Castro Ruz, Leader of Cuba’s Revolution. Please accept my heartfelt condolences.

President Castro was a friend of India. The people of India admired him for his struggle for the liberty and progress of his people. India was amongst the first to recognize Cuba after the success of his 1959 Revolution. Under his charismatic leadership, Cuba has made commendable achievement – particularly in the field of education, health, bio-technology and sports. He has long been a towering figure on the world stage – including at the helm of the Non-Aligned Movement.

We shall always cherish President Castro’s personal contribution to the close relations between India and Cuba. Memories of President Castro’s visit to New Delhi for the NAM Summit in 1983 are still fresh in our minds. India mourns with the people of the Republic of Cuba”.

This Press Release issued at 2120 hrs.