Shortly before taking leave of her Cuban counterpart, Bachelet spoke about the high-level of political dialogue, and the signing of several important agreements during her visit. “The visit has been a success. We have signed a large number of important agreements and established a very high-level of political dialogue; now we have to work towards implementation…so that they translate into concrete benefits for the Cuban and Chilean people.”

After accompanying Bachelet to the foot of the Chilean Air Force plane stairway, Raul noted the importance of several recent successful visits of heads of states and governments to Cuba.  

Raul also spoke about the importance of the incorporation of Cuba to the Group of Rio, and highlighted the significance of the first Latin American and Caribbean Summit held in Brazil at the end of last year. He pointed out that the summit was the first time that all countries from Rio Grande to the Patagonia, including the Caribbean countries, meet in the same place without the presence of other nations from outside the region. “We have grown up; the time has come when we want to speak for ourselves. This is what is being demonstrated by all nations in Latin America, or almost all of them.”

The Cuban president said that the ever more frequent visits of leaders from other countries represents “a recognition of the resistance of the country during 50 years…a recognition that we exist and that we exist because we have resisted.”

“They thank us for the attention received, but we thank them, because the visits of heads of states and governments that have been taking place and those that will soon take place, even in the next few hours, are signs of support, acknowledgement, and respect of Cuba. It is a sign that the times are changing, that unity is coming out of the diversity, as it should be: unity among diversity.”