World leaders pay tribute to Fidel but critics scathing
World leaders paid tribute yesterday to Fidel Castro, the Cuban revolutionary leader who built a communist state on the doorstep of the United States.
But in death just as in life he divided opinion, and critics labelled him a ‘‘tyrant’’.
US President Barack Obama: ‘‘At this time of Fidel Castro’s passing, we extend a hand of friendship to the Cuban people. History will record and judge the enormous impact of this singular figure on the people and world around him.’’
Russian President Vladimir Putin: ‘‘The free and independent Cuba, built by him and his comrades, has become an influential member of international society and served as an inspiring example for many countries and people. Fidel Castro was a frank and tried and true friend of Russia. He has make a great contribution into establishing and developing of Russo-cuban ties, close strategic co-operation in all the spheres.’’
US President-elect Donald Trump: ’’Today, the world marks the passing of a brutal dictator who oppressed his own people for nearly six decades. Fidel Castro’s legacy is one of firing squads, theft, unimaginable suffering, poverty and the denial of fundamental human rights.’’
China President Xi Jinping: ‘‘The Chinese people have lost a close comrade and a sincere friend’’.
Ecuadorean President Rafael Correa: ‘‘A great has left us. Fidel has died. Long live Cuba! Long live Latin America!’’
South African Jacob Zuma: ‘‘President Castro
President
identified with our struggle against apartheid. He inspired the Cuban people to join us in our own struggle against apartheid.’’
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau: ‘‘A legendary revolutionary and orator, Mr Castro made significant improvements to the education and healthcare of his island nation. While a controversial figure, both Mr Castro’s supporters and detractors recognised his tremendous dedication and love for the Cuban people who had a deep and lasting affection for ‘‘el Comandante.’’
Vietnamese Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc and President Tran Dai Quang: ‘‘The bright life and immortal career of comrade Fidel Castro will forever live in the glorious revolutionary mission of the Cuban people and other nations striving to build a fair, civilized, democratic, prosperous and happy life.’’ - Reuters
Lebanese President Michel Aoun:
‘‘Fidel Castro’s memory will remain an impetus for Cuba’s present and future.’’