By Naveed Ahmad Khan Photos by Sultan Bashir
ISLAMABAD: The Embassy of Cuba in Pakistan, in collaboration with the Pak-Cuba Social Forum, organized a photo exhibition titled “Fidel Forever” at the Cuban Embassy in Islamabad to commemorate the birth centenary of Commander-in-Chief Fidel Castro.
Prominent Pakistani politician, veteran journalist, geopolitical analyst, and foreign policy expert Senator Mushahid Hussain Syed, accompanied by his spouse Dr. Dushka Hyder Saiyid, attended the event as the Chief Guest. H.E. Mr. Atadjan Movlamov, Ambassador of Turkmenistan and Dean of the Diplomatic Corps in Pakistan, was the Guest of Honour. The ceremony was attended by members of the diplomatic corps, academics, distinguished personalities from civil society, and friends of Cuba.
Addressing the gathering, Senator Mushahid Hussain Syed congratulated the Embassy of Cuba and the Pak-Cuba Social Forum for organizing the “Fidel Forever” exhibition. Sharing his personal memories of Fidel Castro, he described the late Cuban leader as one of the most influential statesmen of the 20th century. He said Fidel Castro’s visionary leadership transformed Cuba into a modern and resilient nation despite numerous challenges and external pressures. Senator Mushahid highlighted Castro’s remarkable achievements in education, healthcare, science, and international solidarity, observing that his unwavering commitment to social justice, national sovereignty, and human development earned him worldwide respect. He added that Fidel Castro’s legacy continues to inspire people across the globe.
Earlier, H.E. Damián Cordero, Ambassador of Cuba to Pakistan, along with his spouse, welcomed the distinguished guests. In his remarks, Ambassador Cordero reflected on the enduring vision and revolutionary leadership of Commander Fidel Castro. He described the event as a dual celebration—honouring Fidel Castro’s birth centenary while also recognizing Cuba’s recent diplomatic success at the United Nations against the longstanding US blockade, achieved with the support of friendly nations around the world.
Ambassador Cordero highlighted Fidel Castro’s enduring legacy, particularly his philosophy of international solidarity. He noted that Cuban medical missions and humanitarian professionals continue to serve selflessly in some of the world’s most remote and underserved regions.
Speaking on the occasion, Ramzan Mughal, President of the Pak-Cuba Social Forum, paid glowing tribute to Fidel Castro and highlighted the longstanding friendship between Pakistan and Cuba. He said the relationship between the two countries is rooted in mutual respect, sincere friendship, and humanitarian cooperation.
“The people of Pakistan will never forget Cuba’s generous support during the devastating 2005 earthquake, including the deployment of Cuban medical teams and the provision of medical scholarships for Pakistani students,” he said.
Ramzan Mughal added that the “Fidel Forever” exhibition serves as an important cultural and diplomatic bridge, preserving the shared history of Pakistan and Cuba while strengthening bilateral relations for future generations.
The exhibition featured a carefully curated collection of historic photographs depicting key moments in Fidel Castro’s life, his humanitarian vision, and significant milestones in Pakistan-Cuba diplomatic relations. Guests toured the gallery and appreciated the photographs highlighting the enduring friendship, mutual respect, and international solidarity shared by the two nations.
The event concluded with a renewed commitment by the Embassy of Cuba and the Pak-Cuba Social Forum to further strengthen cultural, social, and diplomatic cooperation between Pakistan and Cuba.
