Cuba Roundup: Mourning of Iranian president, terrorist list, Conference for World Balance

Official Mourning for Iranian president's death

Cuban President Diaz-Canel has declared an official period of mourning following the death of Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi. The mourning will be observed from May 21 to May 22, and the Cuban national flag will be flown at half-staff, according to TeleSur. Raisi is remembered for his contribution to the friendship and cooperation between Cuba and Iran. The Iranian President and Foreign Affairs Minister died in a helicopter crash, along with other notable figures.

Cuba and Syria file suit to get off terrorist list

Cuba and Syria are suing to be removed from the US State Department's terrorist list. They argue that the US is the main sponsor of terrorism and supports radical groups in Syria, according to Prensa Latina. Cuba also claims that the US is trying to confuse public opinion with its recent decision to remove Cuba from the list of uncooperative countries while still labelling it as a sponsor of terrorism.

President expresses solidarity with Iranians

Cuban President Díaz-Canel has expressed solidarity with Iran after the presidential helicopter crash leading to the death of Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi and his Foreign Affairs Minister on May 19. "We express to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and the beloved people of the Islamic Republic of Iran our solidarity and best wishes and hopes that President Raisi and his companions will be located without affecting their health,” Díaz-Canel said.

Bolivian activists unveil mural to condemn US blockade against Cuba

Bolivian activists unveiled a mural in solidarity with Cuba and Palestine to protest the US blockade against Cuba. The event was attended by various activist groups and was part of a programme approved at the 9th Congress of the Bolivian Movement of Solidarity with Cuba, according to Prensa Latina. In July, they plan to collect powdered milk for Cuban children as part of their campaign.

International Conference for World Balance

Cuba will host the 6^th  International Conference for World Balance in January 2025, bringing together a diverse group of individuals and organisations committed to social justice, peace, and global development. According to the Cuban News Agency, the conference is supported by various international institutions and will focus on the transition towards multilateralism and sustainable human development. This event has been held in Cuba since 2003 and has gained increasing attention from prominent figures in politics, academia, and civil society, Cuban News Agency reports.