Greek Trade Unionists Express Solidarity with Cuban Workers

Joel García León

hace 5 horas

The Saturday morning began very early at the national headquarters of the Workers’ Central Union of Cuba (CTC). First came a voluntary work session to install a photovoltaic solar park on the rooftop, followed by a visit from Greek trade unionists grouped in the All-Workers Militant Front of Greece (PAME).

Protocol was broken from the start, as before beginning the exchange with the visitors, the latest editions of our newspaper received their first looks and comments. It was as if they were searching for the freshest news from Cuba, even asking questions and making statements that they later summed up in one phrase: “We will not leave you alone in these times.”

With the transparency that conversations among friends always require, Osnay Miguel Colina, president of the Organizing Commission of the 22nd Congress, gave them the official welcome. Dialogue opened, including a characterization of Cuban society today, not only under the well-known economic, commercial, and financial blockade imposed by the U.S. government, but also facing another energy siege declared on January 29 by an executive order of Donald Trump.

Colina was precise. He did not sugarcoat the bothersome blackouts affecting families across all provinces, the lack of transportation due to fuel restrictions, and the limitations in food supplies. “But Cuban workers have not sat idly by. We are building photovoltaic parks to change the energy matrix as quickly as possible, boosting food production, seeking all possible alternatives so the economy does not stop, and of course, preparing for the defense of the country in case of military aggression.”

Referring to a working relationship that has lasted more than two decades, Colina shared with the Greek friends ideas for celebrating the 22nd Congress of the CTC in the second half of June; the plan approved by the union in tribute to the centenary of the birth of Commander in Chief Fidel Castro Ruz; and the priorities for better representation of members, both in the state and private sectors.

Impressed by the resilience, creativity, and convictions of Cuban workers in resisting the harsh U.S. blockade, the Greek representatives reaffirmed a central idea: “We have come here to tell you that PAME, the workers, and the Greek people stand with Cuba,” said Giorgios Perros, member of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Greece, head of PAME, and member of the Executive Committee of the General Confederation of Greek Workers.

“The Revolution is not a bright street; it is a struggle between the past and the future. And while Cuba fights for humanity, capitalist society only cares about profits and the military industry,” Giorgios said emotionally, recalling U.S. interventions, interference, and support for terrorism. “Solidarity with you will grow because you are the beacon that has shown another society different from savage capitalism is possible.”

The meeting ended with invitations and commitments to continue working together on specific issues; photos capturing the deep admiration for the Cuban people; and a visit to the photovoltaic park being installed at the CTC headquarters. “We thank you once again for your solidarity and for being here in Cuba, when many do not dare,” Colina said in farewell.

And among the copies of Trabajadores newspaper they carried under their arms and the small gifts given to each by the CTC, it was clear that the Saturday morning had been worthwhile—a day when friendship and love for Cuba embraced once again.

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