Published on February 21, 2026 by Joel García León, Trabajadores Newspaper
Saturday morning began bright and early at the national headquarters of the Cuban Workers' Federation (CTC). First, there was a day of volunteer work installing a photovoltaic solar park on the rooftop, followed by a visit from Greek union members belonging to the Militant Front of Greek Workers (PAME).
Protocol was broken from the start, as before the exchange with the visitors began, the latest editions of our newspaper received their first glances and comments. It was as if they were looking for the latest news from Cuba, even asking questions and making statements that they later summarized in one phrase: "We will not leave you alone in these times."
With the openness that conversations between friends always require, the president of the Organizing Committee of the 22nd Congress, Osnay Miguel Colina, officially welcomed them. And so the dialogue began, which included a characterization of contemporary Cuban society, amidst not only the well-known economic, commercial, and financial blockade imposed by the U.S. government, but also another energy embargo declared on January 29th by an executive order from Donald Trump.
Colina was precise. He didn't sugarcoat the frustrating blackouts that families in every province are experiencing, the lack of transportation due to fuel restrictions, and the limitations in the supply of food products. "But we Cuban workers haven't been sitting idly by," he said. "We are building photovoltaic parks to change the energy matrix as quickly as possible, boosting food production, exploring every possible alternative to keep the economy running, and of course, preparing for the defense of the country should they attempt a military attack."
Based on a working relationship that spans more than two decades, Colina shared his ideas with his Greek friends for holding the 22nd CTC Congress in the second half of June. The plan approved by the labor organization in celebration of the Centennial of the birth of Commander-in-Chief Fidel Castro Ruz, as well as the work priorities for better representation of members in both the state and private sectors, were discussed.
Impressed by the resilience, creativity, and convictions of Cuban workers in fighting against the harsh U.S. blockade, the Greek representatives reaffirmed a key idea: "We have come here to reiterate that PAME, the workers, and the Greek people stand with Cuba," stated Giorgios Perros, member of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Greece, head of PAME, and member of the Executive Committee of the General Confederation of Greek Workers.
"The Revolution is not a bright street; it is a struggle between the past and the future. And while Cuba fights for humanity, capitalist society is only interested in profits and the military industry," commented an emotional Giorgios, who recalled in his remarks all the interventions, interference, and support for terrorism by the United States government. “Solidarity with you will increase because you are the beacon that has shown that a society different from unfettered capitalism is possible.”
The meeting concluded with invitations and commitments to continue working together on specific issues; photos that bear witness to the deep admiration for the Cuban people; and a visit to the photovoltaic park being installed at the National CTC (Central Organization of Cuban Workers). “We thank you once again for your solidarity and for being in Cuba today, when many don't dare to take the risk,” Colina told them as he said goodbye.
And between the Trabajadores newspaper they carried under their arms and a small gift given to each by the CTC, we could see that a different kind of Saturday had been worthwhile, a day in which friendship and love for Cuba were rekindled.