Odisha, 21 August 2025- The Cuban Ambassador to India, Juan Carlos Marsán, and the First Secretary, Maiky Díaz Pérez, participated in the launch of the biographical book about Commander-in-Chief Fidel Castro Ruz, "100 Years With Fidel," written in Odia tongue by Cuba´s friend Bijay Kumar Padhihari, Secretary General of the Indian Association for Cultural Exchange and Friendship (ISCUF).
The event, attended by more than 200 people, including the Mayor of Cuttack, Subash Ch. Singh, and local political and social leaders, highlighted the humanistic and supportive dimension of Fidel's thought and actions, his contribution to the international progressive and revolutionary movement, to the people's struggle for independence, and as a symbol of resistance against permanent imperialist aggression.
In his speech, the Cuban Ambassador expressed his gratitude for the organization of this event, which continues the celebration of Fidel's centenary. “Fidel is today represented among the millions of friends in solidarity who reject the criminal US blockade policy against our people and the unjust inclusion of Cuba on the spurious list of countries that supposedly support terrorism”, he said. Finally, a called to continue and increase solidarity with the island was made by the cuban diplomat.
The event featured traditional dance performances by the Cuttack Dance Institute and other cultural expressions, including the Guantanamera, as expressions of friendship that tie our countries, peoples, and generations.
The following day, the Cuban diplomats were invited to pay tribute to Fidel in the district of Jagatsinghpur, Odisha, with the presence of more than 100 local political leaders, intellectuals, and academics, who highlighted the life and work of the undefeated Commander in Chief and reaffirmed their solidarity with the heroic Cuban people and their Revolution.
In her speech at this event, First Secretary Maiky Díaz Pérez referred to contributions of the historic leader of the Cuban Revolution for relations between Cuba and India, which endure to this day, as a sign of brotherhood between our peoples.
The activities held over the weekend were attended by several media outlets, which conducted interviews with the book's author and our diplomats, reflecting extensive coverage in the local media.