Havana, December 21 (RHC-ACN)-- Cuban Parliament President Esteban Lazo has ratified the strong and excellent relations of the Caribbean nation with the Government and people of South Africa.

In an exchange with Blade Nzimande, general secretary of the Communist Party and Minister of Education of the African country, Lazo recalled Cuba's historic ties of friendship with South Africa and with the various nations of that continent.

Referring to the presence of the young delegation accompanying Nzimande, the president of the Cuban National Assembly of People's Power emphasized that they are the successors of the independence conquests, so the ideological and political education to future generations is essential.

In these times of crisis, of economic, energy, food wars and climate change, it is necessary to know the history of our land, and stand firm in defense of the ideas and principles of the Revolution, he said.

Esteban Lazo spoke with the South African parliamentarians about Cuba's mass organizations, including the Committees for the Defense of the Revolution, the Federation of Cuban Women and youth and farmer's organizations.

He also explained why there is a single party in Cuba, and insisted that the existence of many parties is not essential to have more democracy, instead we must "all fight together for the common goal towards achieving integration."

In turn, he thanked the Government and people of South Africa for their role in the battle for the return of the Cuban Five to the country, and assured that bilateral cooperation in the sectors of health, education, among other areas, will be maintained.

As part of the program of activities, Salvador Valdes Mesa, Vice President of the State Council, received the South African delegation also including Mapaila Solly, Deputy Secretary of the Communist Party; and Thulas Nxesi, Deputy Coordinator, among other political leaders.