Raul Castro Gives Closing Speech at VI Communist Party Congress

The First Secretary of the Communist Party of Cuba, Raul Castro said the update of the Cuban economic model takes time and responsibility, and noted that the required changes will be implemented according to the objective conditions, without putting at risk the unity of the people and the Revolution.

The party leader, made these statements during the closing session of the 6th Congress of the Communist Party of Cuba, which convened from April 16-19 in Havana and was attended by Cuban Revolution Leader, Fidel Castro Ruz.

Raul Castro informed that the Guidelines for the Economic and Social Policy of the Party and the Revolution, enriched by popular opinion and party delegates’ proposals will be submitted for consideration and approval of the National Assembly of People’s Power.

He also called for the renewal of political and administrative positions. In this regard he informed that the newly appointed Central Committee of the PCC was reduced to 115 members, of which 48 are women.

Raul Castro reaffirmed that his main task as First Secretary will be to further develop socialism and not allow the return of the capitalist regime to Cuba anymore.

Referring to Fidel's absence from the active members of the PCC Central Committee, he said the Commander in Chief himself had so requested. But reaffirmed: “Fidel doesn’t need any position to occupy the highest place in the history of Cuba. While he has the strength to do so, he will contribute with the ideological battle of our time.”

Raul Castro finally highlighted the symbolism that involved closing the congress the day that marks the 50 Anniversary of the Victory of Playa Girón (Bay of Pigs), the first major defeat of U.S. imperialism in Latin America.

Furthermore, he sent a fraternal greeting to the Communist Parties all over the world that struggle for a better future and a more just and equal society. He also expressed Cuba's gratitude to all countries and peoples of the Third World, especially in Latin America and the Caribbean, which - he said – “will always have the support and solidarity of the Cuban Revolution.” / RHC

POLITBURO MEMBERS ELECTED (LIST)

1. Raúl Castro Ruz
2. José Ramón Machado
3. Abelardo Colomé
4. Julio Casas
5. Esteban Lazo
6. Ramiro Valdés
7. Miguel Díaz Canel
8. Ricardo Alarcón de Quesada
9. Leopoldo Cintra Frías
10. Ramón Espinosa Martín
11. Alvaro López Miera
12. Salvador Valdés Mesa
13. Mercedes López Acea
14. Marino Murillo Jorge
15. Adel Izquierdo Rodríguez