Havana, August 20 (RHC/PL)-- African students pursuing higher studies in Cuba have condemned the economic, commercial and financial blockade that the U.S. keeps in place against the island.

Gathered under the 8th International Students Solidarity Brigade, some 100 students from over 20 countries visited the Cuban Friendship Institute this week and called for an end of the U.S. policy of blockade, which they said was remnant of the Cold War and is not in line with a proclaimed attitude on the part of the U.S. in favor of normalization of relations with Cuba.

The students also demanded the end of Washington's illegal occupation of a portion of Cuban territory at Guantanamo, where the U.S. keeps a naval base against the will of Cuba and its people.

The brigade is staying at the Julio Antonio Mella International Camp, west of Havana. The International Students Solidarity with Cuba Brigade this year is dedicating its activity to the figure of the historic leader of the Cuban Revolution, Fidel Castro, on occasion of his 90th birthday, recently this month of August, on the 13th. The students will visit historic sites in Cuba and hold meetings with members of local youth and student organizations.