On Monday, the Cuban regime kicked off the inaugural International Colloquium "Fidel: Legacy and Future" at Havana's Palace of Conventions, drawing more than 1,500 delegates from 63 countries. This event unfolds amidst one of the most severe economic crises in Cuba's recent history.
Despite the dire circumstances, reports from the state-run Canal Caribe indicate that over a thousand participants are foreigners, underscoring the regime's relentless focus on political propaganda, even in challenging times.
The Event and Its Context
Spanning three days, the colloquium takes place in the Palace of Conventions and various other venues throughout the capital. It commemorates the upcoming centennial of Fidel Castro's birth on August 13, 2026, marking an elaborate series of activities to honor the "Historic Leader of the Cuban Revolution."
Leading the inauguration was Miguel Díaz-Canel, joined by prominent figures such as Esteban Lazo Hernández, President of the National Assembly; Prime Minister Manuel Marrero Cruz; and Roberto Morales Ojeda, Secretary of Organization of the Communist Party's Central Committee.
Backdrop of a National Crisis
The event occurs shortly after Cuba's electrical system suffered its seventh complete collapse, affecting millions amid ongoing blackouts lasting over 20 hours in several provinces.
René González Barrios, Director of the Fidel Castro Ruz Center, acknowledged the challenging socio-economic conditions during his address, noting the participation of around 1,500 delegates, including over a thousand foreigners, as encouragement to uphold the regime's political agenda.
Díaz-Canel's Address
Cuban leader Miguel Díaz-Canel emphasized that "saving the Cuban revolution" is the paramount challenge for his generation, attributing the island's crisis to an alleged "strangulation" by the United States.
"I am not exaggerating when I say this colloquium is held at one of the most difficult moments the revolution has faced," Díaz-Canel stated. "We are not here to dwell in nostalgia; we are here because Fidel Castro's ideology remains our most accurate compass for navigating the storm facing the Cuban people."
He declared that Castro's legacy extends beyond Cuba, belonging to those striving for what he described as "a better world." He urged foreign participants to defend the official narrative about Cuba, dubbing them "ambassadors of truth" and "witnesses that Cuba does not surrender."
Díaz-Canel called for studying and emulating the late dictator, asserting that merely remembering or admiring him is insufficient. He stressed that Castro's ideology should be harnessed to drive economic and social changes aimed at preserving Cuba's political system.
Concluding his speech, Díaz-Canel quoted Fidel Castro to emphasize resistance against the United States: "We are prepared to endure with dignity and selflessness as long as necessary the imperialist blockade. If others yield, are bribed, or betray, Cuba will remain an example of a revolution that does not capitulate."
Recurring Pattern of International Events
This isn't the first time the regime has organized international gatherings amid a crisis. On May 2, for instance, they hosted a solidarity meeting with nearly 800 delegates from 152 organizations across 36 countries. Similarly, on August 6, the Fourth Continental Assembly of ALBA Movements was inaugurated with 188 delegates from 27 countries, despite the ongoing blackouts.
Understanding Cuba's Political Landscape
Why are international events being held in Cuba during a crisis?
The Cuban regime prioritizes political propaganda and international solidarity, using these events to assert its narrative and gather support, even amid severe economic and social challenges.
What is the significance of the colloquium for Fidel Castro's legacy?
The colloquium aims to celebrate Castro's centennial and reinforce his ideological influence as a guiding force for the Cuban regime, especially in difficult times.
How does the Cuban government explain the current crisis?
The Cuban government attributes the crisis to external factors, specifically a "strangulation" by the United States, framing it as an imperialist blockade against Cuba.