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 Havana, Nov 12 (Prensa Latina) Cuban President Fidel Castro signed the condolences book opened at the Palestine Embassy in Cuba after the death of Palestine National Authority President Yasser Arafat.
Fidel Castro signed the condolences book on Thursday at the Revolution Square, according to Granma newspaper.
The Cuban leader wished "honor and eternal glory to the unforgettable and heroic fighter Yasser Arafat". Nothing will be able to erase his name from the history of great fighters for peopleīs freedom, he added.
Fidel Castro recalled that Arafat led the struggle of the Palestine people during more than four decades to establish an independent State with Eastern Jerusalem as Capital, according to message of condolence sent to Rauhi Fatuh, president of Palestine Legislative Council, and Mahmoud Abbas, president of the Palestine Liberation Organizationsīs Executive Committee.
Arafat defended the just demand for the return of all refugees to their ancestral land which they were forced to abandon, Fidel said.
Fidel Castro -who called Arafat a "close friend" in his letter- said Arafatīs death is not only a sensible lost for the battle of the Arab people but also a terrible blow for the world progressive movement.
The Cuban president said Arafat is an example of tireless fighter who struggled for the rights of the people to enjoy freedom and independence.
"We reiterate our solidarity and immense support to the just cause of the Palestine people and our decision to continue strengthening fraternal links that unite our peoples, "Fidel Castro said.
The Cuban Council of State decided to declare national mourning in which the Cuban flag will be raised to half mast in public buildings -including schools and working centers- and military installations.
(Prensa Latina)12 nov 2004 | 
