On the occasion of the 44th anniversary of the establishment of Diplomatic Relations between The Gambia and Cuba, to be celebrated this May 19th, we convey our most sincere congratulations to the people and the government of this sister West African nation for their always solidarity with Cuba.
More than four decades of close and friendly ties have led us to the fact that today we can say that our bilateral ties are very strong, and that they will surely continue to intensify in the future.
The Gambia, like all of Africa, is united by blood, family and cultural ties, and by struggles for sovereignty, independence, and peace among all peoples.
In the convulsed world in which we currently live, only with solidarity and collaboration will we get ahead, and we will be able to face the challenges that are imposed on us as small countries and those of the so-called third world.
The Gambia and Cuba are clear examples of brotherhood and cooperation, as well as mutual gratitude because they are always accompanied by their hands.
On this 44th birthday we must reiterate our immense gratitude for the human warmth that Cuban health collaborators receive from this modest and dignified town.
We also thank the government, the National Assembly and numerous friends for the support they provide to the largest of the Antilles in its long battle against the blockade that has been unjustly imposed on the island for more than 60 years.
We reaffirm that, despite the difficulties we face, we will continue to help The Gambia, as we do with many African nations and other regions of the world.
Africa Day will also be celebrated soon, on May 25, which is why we doubly congratulate The Gambia, as well as this entire continent, far away from Cuba, but very close in all our hearts.
Paraphrasing a great friend: Cuba will never cease to be the most African country geographically outside of this region.
No one can have the slightest doubt about it because it was the historic leader of the Revolution on the Caribbean island, Fidel Castro, who taught our compatriots to be true brothers of Africa.
Ruben G. Abelenda
Ambassador of Cuba in The Gambia
"An Island on a Continent" 