Luanda, December 4 (RHC) -– Angolan Minister of National Defense, João Gonçalves Lourenço, congratulated the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Cuba on the 58th anniversary of their foundation and thanked Cuba for its support of Angola.

The message was addressed to his Cuban counterpart, Leopoldo Cintra Frias. João Lourenço praised the role played by many anonymous heroes from Cuba who, with patriotic spirit and mission, fought "fearlessly" for Africa's independence.

"We acknowledge with deep gratitude the contribution of revolutionary and fearless Cuban soldiers who fought alongside the Angolans for the preservation of the independence and sovereignty of the Republic of Angola," reads the letter.

The minister also paid tribute to the Cuban soldiers who died fighting South Africa's apartheid regime in its attacks on Angola.

The official expressed the desire to continue to cooperate in a climate of mutual respect, further consolidating the fraternal, affectionate and strong ties that exist between both countries.