The Communist Party of Cuba’s first secretary, Army General Raúl Castro Ruz, addressed members of the Central Committee Secretariat; first secretaries of municipal and provincial committees; other auxiliary functionaries; and representatives of mass organizations and the Young Communists League, at the conclusion of a three-day meeting held at the Party’s Ñico López cadre school, in Havana.
Over the course of almost three hours, Raúl shared ideas on the tense international situation, marked by conflicts in different parts of the world and non-conventional wars being waged against progressive governments; as well as historical events that impacted Cuba, including the collapse of the Socialist camp in the 1990s.
He emphasized that the Revolution’s principal weapon has always been unity and that in the face of any adverse international conjuncture Cuba will continue its struggle and defend its principles.
Recalling the hard times of the special period that led to some discouragement, Raúl stressed, “We must die fighting, struggle with our heads always held high, because this has been our principal conviction.”
He reiterated that the economic issue is at the top of the Party’s work agenda, since everything else depends on it.
e insisted on confronting problems openly and acting with optimism in all circumstances. He cited as an example the development of tourism that began years ago, during a difficult time.
Among other issues, the First Secretary referred to the cadre policy and the importance of continuing to promote women, Black, and mixed race leaders to decision-making positions.
He remarked that meeting with cadres leading the Party at the provincial and municipal level was a privilege, since they represent a great deal for the country, adding that this type of meeting will be held annually.
During the three day meeting, first secretaries of municipal and provincial committees discussed, among other issues, the Party’s functioning; the role of members; fulfillment of agreements reached at the 6th and 7th Congresses; and attention to prioritized work in education, science, sports, transportation, industry, and construction.
Those attending also heard an update from the National Assembly commission charged with writing the first draft of a proposed new Constitution, which will subsequently be discussed in neighborhood meetings across the country, a process in which the Party will play an important role.
Also attending were Miguel Díaz-Canel Bermúdez, President of the Councils of State and Ministers, and Party Second Secretary José Ramón Machado Ventura. (Taken from en.granma.cu)
