International Colloquium “Fidel: Legacy and Future” Opens to Mark the Centenary of the Cuban Revolution

Aug 14, 2026 at 09:44 AM

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Lanka Leader

The first international colloquium dedicated to the thought, political philosophy and legacy of Cuban revolutionary leader Fidel Castro Ruz—“Fidel: Legacy and Future”—opened on 10th August in Cuba, coinciding with the 100th anniversary of his birth.

Addressing the opening session, Miguel Mario Díaz-Canel Bermúdez, President of the Republic of Cuba and First Secretary of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Cuba, delivered the keynote address.

Speaking to scholars, academics, intellectuals, artists, social and political leaders, and representatives from all five continents, President Díaz-Canel stressed that their decision to come to Cuba at a time of continued U.S. sanctions and pressure was an act of courage.

“On behalf of the Cuban people and their Communist Party, a people who never forget their friends, accept the most sincere embrace of brotherhood that we can offer you,” the President said.

He added: “There is no better or stronger monument that you could have built here, in Fidel’s Cuba, on the occasion of his centenary, than your courageous presence.”

Fidel’s Legacy and the Achievements of the Cuban Revolution

In his address, President Díaz-Canel presented an extensive analysis of Fidel Castro’s political and social legacy.

Recalling the difficult social and economic conditions that existed in Cuba before the 1959 Revolution, he highlighted the achievements made by the Revolution in the fields of healthcare, education, science and social development over the decades.

At the same time, he acknowledged the severe economic pressures and shortages currently confronting Cuba.

“Fidel left us a way of thinking and acting. He did not give us recipes; he gave us a methodology,” Díaz-Canel said.

Condemnation of the U.S. Sanctions Against Cuba

The Cuban President strongly condemned the continued tightening of U.S. sanctions against Cuba, stressing that these measures have had severe humanitarian and economic consequences for the Cuban people.

He referred to the serious difficulties facing the healthcare, energy and other essential sectors, highlighting problems including electricity shortages and shortages of medicines and other basic necessities.

Despite these challenges, however, the Cuban people continue to resist and move forward through the spirit of resistance and creativity inherited from Fidel Castro, he said.

“We responded with what Fidel taught us: resistance is not passive; it is creative,” the President stated.

He cited Cuba’s development of its own vaccines, efforts to strengthen agriculture, and its continued commitment to international solidarity and internationalism as examples of this creative resistance.

“Fidel’s Legacy Belongs to All Those Struggling for a Better World”

Addressing the international participants, President Díaz-Canel called on them to help convey the truth about Cuba to the world.

“Fidel is not a legacy limited to Cubans. Fidel belongs to all those who struggle for a better world,” he declared.

He also stressed the importance of uniting progressive forces around the world, studying Fidel’s thought and legacy, and drawing inspiration from his experience in contributing to the construction of socialism suited to the challenges of the 21st century.

Concluding his address, President Díaz-Canel invoked the traditional slogan of the Cuban Revolution:

“Fidel lives forever! Socialism or Death! We shall overcome!”

Fidel at 100: A Legacy That Continues to Shape Cuba and the World