Deputy Prime Minister Sir Louis Straker has called for the blockade against Cuba to be lifted. Straker made this plea at an event held at the Peace Memorial Hall last Friday to commemorate the 48th anniversary of the Cuban Revolution, the first of its kind in St Vincent and the Grenadines.{{more}}

Making no apologies for his stance, the government Minister said, “The greatest power in the world has hedged you in with their blockade but you have survived for 48 years. We stand side by side with you and trust that the US and the UN would have the blockade lifted.”

Straker who is also Foreign Minister, described the Cuban revolution as a catalyst for freedom which inspired oppressed people around the world who were enslaved, imprisoned and ruled by apartheid to seek liberation.

The Deputy Prime Minister said that the Cuban people have done more for this country than any developed nation and has never asked for favours in return. He wished Prime Minister Fidel Castro continued recuperation and hoped that he would return to full health soon.

Noting that it was Cuba’s duty to give back to improve the lives of their fellowmen, Ambassador of the Republic of Cuba, Olga Chamero Trias stressed the importance of giving and not looking for a reward.

She said that although her country faced harsh economic constraints, they knew the importance of sharing. “Solidarity is a two way road…you don’t share only what you have plenty; you just share what you have. This is, from my point of view, true solidarity.”

A highlight of the evening was the showing of a 10 minute documentary on the Vision Now programme entitiled, ‘Montana De Luz” or “Mountain of Light.”