Presidential Research & Communications Unit

President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua has described the relationship between Nigeria and Cuba as excellent, brotherly and historic.

Speaking during an audience with the visiting Vice President of Cuba, Mr. Esteban Lazo, in State House Abuja on Tuesday May 5, the President, who traced Cuba's relations with Nigeria and indeed Africa to the era of slave trade, commended the role Cuba played during the liberation and independence struggles of several African countries.

President Yar'Adua also noted that, "Cuba has always stood by us on international matters to advance the cause of global peace, stability and justice as well as the push for a New International World Order."

He particularly praised the role of Cuban doctors in providing healthcare in many African countries while pledging Nigeria's readiness to deepen relations with Cuba.

The President, on behalf of the government and people of Nigeria, extended best wishes to former Cuban President, Fidel Castro.

Lazo, who also praised the historic relations between his country, Nigeria and the African continent, however, noted that, "You cannot speak of Africa without Nigeria not just because of oil, but its history, influence and participation in peace keeping and conflict resolution around the globe."

The Cuban vice president said that his visit will not only open avenues for enhanced bilateral cooperation on agriculture, solar energy, oil and eradicating malaria, but also boost South-South cooperation.