Makaruk received the medal for his outstanding activity in strengthening the ties of fraternity and cooperation.

Havana, Nov 25 (RHC) Cuban Ambassador to the Russian Federation Julio Garmendía presented on Friday in Moscow the Friendship Medal to the veteran and first vice president of the Russia-Cuba Friendship Association, Mijail Makaruk.

The ceremony took place at the diplomatic headquarters of the island after a meeting with members of friendship groups with Cuba in the Eurasian giant, in honor of the sixth anniversary of the physical disappearance of the historic leader of the Cuban Revolution, Fidel Castro Ruz (November 25).

By decree of the President of the Republic of Cuba, Miguel Diaz-Canel, at the proposal of the Cuban Institute of Friendship with the Peoples, Makaruk received the medal for his outstanding activity in strengthening the ties of fraternity, cooperation, and mutual aid between the two peoples.

The provision also states that the decoration is a recognition of his support and backing for the strengthening and deepening of ties with the people of the Caribbean Island, as well as for his outstanding participation in the campaigns for the defense of the Revolution.

For his part, Makaruk thanked the gesture and said that the recent visit of President Diaz-Canel, and the inauguration together with Russian President Vladimir Putin of a statue of Fidel Castro in downtown Moscow, marked a step into the future that will serve as a guide for new generations.

The honoree recalled the words of the Cuban leader when he said "together we will win", a phrase that, in his opinion, symbolizes the friendship and collaboration between Havana and Moscow.

The emotional ceremony was also attended by the director of the Fidel Castro Center in Havana, Rene Gonzalez, and the Fidel Castro Foundation for the development of Russian-Cuban relations, Leonid Savin. (Source: PL)