The recent retirement of Raul Castro as the first secretary of Cuba’s ruling Communist Party has marked the end of a six-decade era known as the “historic generation”. This change in leadership originated from an armed revolution in 1959 under the guidance of Fidel Castro. Furthermore, the US State Department in January 2021, designated Cuba as a State Sponsor of Terrorism for its continued support for international terrorism and providing safe harbour to terrorists.
A Brief History of Cuba
Cuba’s history stretches back to the 15th century when it was a Spanish colony. The Spanish-American War in 1898 resulted in Cuba being occupied by the United States, attaining nominal independence in 1902. However, it remained a de facto United States protectorate.
In a bid to bolster its democratic system, Cuba made several attempts in 1940. However, mounting political radicalization and social strife led to a coup and a dictatorship under Fulgencio Batista in 1952. His reign, marked by open corruption and oppression, ended with his ousting in January 1959 by the 26th of July Movement. This movement later established communist rule under Fidel Castro.
Cuba was governed by the Communist Party since 1965 and became a significant point of contention during the Cold War between the Soviet Union and the United States. The tension between the two superpowers nearly instigated a nuclear war during the Cuban Missile Crisis of 1962. In 2019, Cuba approved a new constitution recognizing private property rights while upholding the central government’s regulatory power over production and land.
India-Cuba Relations
India and Cuba have shared strong diplomatic relations for many years. India was one of the first countries to recognize Cuba after the 1959 Revolution. Both countries have collaborated in various international platforms such as the United Nations (UN), Non-Aligned Movement (NAM), World Trade Organization (WTO), and others.
India has consistently supported Cuba against US-supported resolutions at the UN Human Rights Council. Furthermore, India has voted in favor of Cuban sponsored resolutions in the UN General Assembly, supporting the lifting of US sanctions against Cuba. Cuba reciprocates this support by backing India’s bid for a permanent seat in the restructured UN Security Council.
Cuba also voted in favor of India’s candidature for a Non-Permanent Seat on the UNSC. Furthermore, Cuba joined the International Solar Alliance, a joint initiative by India and France.
Economic Relations
In 2017, bilateral trade between India and Cuba stood at USD 38.81 Million. The two countries agreed to collaborate in biotechnology, homeopathy, and traditional medicine during the visit of the Indian president to Cuba in 2019. India provides development assistance to Cuba in various sectors and donated 60 tractors with accessories, medicines, and medical equipment to the island in January 2019.
Cultural Connections
Cuba has embraced several aspects of Indian culture. Yoga and Vipassana meditation are practiced widely in Cuba, and there is growing interest in Ayurveda and Indian Naturopathy. A tradition has been formed where Rabindranath Tagore’s birth anniversary is honored yearly. This cultural exchange was solidified when a bust of Rabindranath Tagore was unveiled in Old Havana in May 2007, donated by the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR). Additionally, busts of Mahatma Gandhi and a statue of Mother Teresa are present in Havana. Cuba commemorated the International Day of Yoga, Mahatma Gandhi’s 150th birth anniversary, and the 550th anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev.
The Way Forward
The strong political ties between India and Cuba have existed for many years, with both countries aligning in their struggle towards a multi-polar world. While the political ties are commendable, a focused effort is needed to develop the economic and commercial field for mutual benefit.
The retirement of Raul Castro might bring about changes in Cuba’s political landscape, but the relationship between Cuba and India remains steadfast with the potential for further growth and development in various sectors.
