The Embassy of Cuba in the Netherlands hosted a reception to mark the 72nd anniversary of the National Rebellion Day at its premises in The Hague. The event brought together diplomats, Cuban families, and friends of Cuba in a warm and festive atmosphere.
Among the distinguished guests were the ambassadors of China, Uruguay, Peru, Angola, Panama, Venezuela, as well as the Chief of Mission of Palestine. Guests enjoyed live Cuban music, a traditional menu, and an authentic cultural celebration.
The highlight of the evening was the address by H.E. Ms. Eva Yelina Silva Walker, Ambassador of Cuba, who recalled the significance of July 26, 1953, the day of the attack on the Moncada and Carlos Manuel de Céspedes barracks:
“July 26 is a date of profound historical significance for the Cuban people. In the centennial year of our Apostle José Martí, a group of young people, filled with courage and revolutionary passion, stormed the second most important military barracks in the country, and with this action, they began the final stage of the struggle for definitive independence, achieved on January 1, 1959.
Today, 72 years later, Cuba remains a rebellious island, populated by men and women determined to safeguard their hard-won sovereignty, whatever the cost. We are proud to belong to and represent a heroic and resilient people who, for more than six decades, have faced a genocidal and ruthless blockade by the U.S. government, which today is intensifying and applying it with relentless and unlimited ferocity.”
Ambassador Silva Walker highlighted achievements of the Cuban Revolution, particularly in education and healthcare. She noted that both services are universal and free for the entire population, and emphasized Cuba’s contributions abroad:
- “Over 10 million people in 30 countries, including indigenous communities in Australia and Mozambique, have benefited from Cuban literacy programs. More than 600,000 Cuban health professionals have served in 165 countries since 1963, with over 24,000 currently active in 56 nations.” Despite the ongoing U.S. embargo, the ambassador underscored Cuba’s determination to pursue “a prosperous and sustainable socialism.” She pointed to efforts to update the legal framework following the adoption of the 2019 Constitution, strengthen the economy, promote new economic actors, and expand renewable energy to improve the country’s energy outlook and protect the environment.
The evening concluded with Cuban talents from the Cuban National School of Arts, who invited guests to dance, followed by a Cuban culinary experience accompanied by rum and mojitos. The reception was made possible thanks to the support of Casa Ron, Swinkels Family Brewers, and VION.
