Esteban Lazo Hernández, president of Cuba's National Assembly of People's Power, visited Angola's Cabinda province to mark the 50th anniversary of Angola's independence and diplomatic ties between the two nations. The visit highlights the historic defense of Cabinda with Cuban support against invaders in 1975. Angolan and Cuban officials reaffirmed the brotherhood between the peoples.
In 1975, Angola faced severe threats: South African racists advanced from the south, mercenaries and Zaire troops neared Luanda, and forces backed by Zaire prepared to attack Cabinda, a strategic enclave due to its position and natural resources. The goal was to occupy Angola alongside South African fascists and thwart independence proclaimed on November 11, 1975, by Agostinho Neto amid artillery thunder.
Fidel Castro Ruz stated in Luanda on March 27, 1977: "The imperialists were unable to take Cabinda and suffered a crushing defeat there." Cabinda was heroically defended by MPLA fighters with a handful of Cuban instructors, as invaders did not account for the Angolan people, MPLA, FAPLA, or international solidarity.
Half a century later, Esteban Lazo Hernández arrived in Cabinda, received at Maria Mambo Café airport by Vice Governor Juliano Capita. At the provincial government headquarters, he conveyed greetings to Governor Suzana Fernanda Pemba Massiala de Abreu and emphasized the historic closeness between Cabinda and Cuba. He shared details on Cuba's recovery after Hurricane Melissa and the U.S. blockade.
Lazo toured historic battle sites, where Angolan officials acknowledged Cuba's internationalist contribution. Brigadier Miguel Casimiro Mádia Kanga stated: "This moment represents not only a tribute to the memory of the heroes... but also an opportunity to share experiences, strengthen discipline, professionalism, and mutual appreciation of the military principles that unite our peoples." Cuba's Hero of the Republic, Major General Ramón Pardo Guerra, highlighted the battle's importance for Angola's independence and territorial integrity, and the legacy of Army Corps General Ramón Espinosa Martín.
The visit concluded at Cabinda General Hospital, where Lazo had an emotional meeting with over 40 Cuban health workers supporting the African nation. Cabinda remains a symbol of brotherhood against colonialism, apartheid, and imperialism.