Raúl Castro returns to Cuba after official visit to Antigua and Barbuda

HAVANA, Cuba, Dec 11 (ACN) Cuban President Raul Castro Ruz returned to Cuba this Saturday afternoon after paying an official visit to Antigua and Barbuda and participating in the VI CARICOM-Cuba Summit, which was held in this country.

Early in the morning he was received officially by the Prime Minister, Gaston Browne. The leaders, together with their respective delegations, participated in the welcoming ceremony, in which the flags were raised and the national anthems of both countries were played.
At the beginning of the official talks, and in the presence of the media, the premier of Antigua and Barbuda said that it was an honor and a privilege for him to receive Raúl on his first visit to an Eastern Caribbean country.
He also considered that the bilateral relations, established 23 years ago, have expanded exponentially and had their highest point in the immediate response offered by Cuba after the devastating passage of Hurricane Irma. In this regard, he thanked the generosity of the Government and people of Cuba.
He stressed that his country attaches particular importance to the relationship with Cuba, not only in the bilateral sphere, but also as part of regional integration mechanisms such as CELAC and CARICOM.
In particular, he praised the work of Cuban doctors in Antigua and Barbuda, a collaboration that has made it possible to strengthen and make the health network on the islands more inclusive.
After the official conversation, described by both leaders as historic, a Declaration of Solidarity and Cooperation was issued on behalf of the two Governments and peoples. The document reaffirms "the unwavering commitment to the sovereignty and independence of our nations and the absolute determination to safeguard them."
It ratifies that facing climate change is a priority for humanity, under the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities.
In the Declaration signed after the official visit, both governments expressed the decision to explore and deepen economic opportunities for the benefit of their nations, which include tourism, air transport and joint ventures.
Realizó Raúl visita oficial a Antigua y Barbuda