President Vučić awards the Order of the Serbian flag 1st Class to the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Cuba

President Vučić said he was very pleased that he could award the modal to Minister Rodríguez Parrilla in the year that marks the 120th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Serbia and Cuba.

“It is an incredible honour and pleasure to award the Order of the Serbian flag 1st Class today in Belgrade to the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Cuba during his official visit to the Republic of Serbia, in view of his personal achievements, commitment and contribution to the preservation of the high level of Cuba–Serbia relations”, said President Vučić, noting that the late President of Cuba Fidel Castro had been awarded the Order of the Republic of Serbia 2nd Class for his notable achievements in developing and strengthening friendly relations between the two countries.

“I would like to thank Your Excellence for your personal contribution to the improvement and strengthening of the overall relations between Serbia and Cuba in all areas of common interest, from agriculture, health care, pharmaceutical industry, to tourism and culture. I am convinced that this visit will contribute to the preservation of the political dialogue at the high and highest level”, added President Vučić. He invited President of Cuba Miguel Mario Díaz-Canel Bermúdez to visit Serbia.

President Vučić also thanked Cuba for its consistent support to the preservation of sovereignty and territorial integrity of Serbia, highlighting that it was a reflection of Cuba’s commitment to the observance of the fundamental principles of international law, something that Serbia deeply valued. He emphasised that Serbia would remain consistent in its opposition to the sanction against Cuba, and that Cuba could always count on Serbia’s support.

Minister Rodríguez Parrilla stated today that he saw the medal as a sign of appreciation for the entire Cuban people, who have always been on Serbia’s side.

“I am receiving this Order as a great honour, in the name of the people of Cuba. This is not an acknowledgement of me or my profession, but a beautiful gesture of friendship of the Government and people of Serbia to the people and the Government of Cuba”, stated Minister Rodríguez Parrilla. He added that it was another confirmation of the wish to deepen the historical connections between the two countries.