Istanbul, February 8, 2026 – José Martí, Cuba’s national hero and a prominent figure in the struggle for independence and anti-imperialism, was commemorated in Istanbul on the 173rd anniversary of his birth. The event, organized by the Cuban Consulate General in Istanbul, took place at Havana Park in Esenyurt Municipality, which hosts a bust of Martí.
Commemoration Highlights Martí’s Enduring Legacy
The ceremony commenced with the national anthems of Turkey and Cuba, setting a solemn tone for the remembrance of Martí’s contributions. Attendees included representatives from the José Martí Cuba Friendship Association (JMKDD), the Consulate General of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela in Istanbul, and the Consulate of Malaysia in Istanbul.
Raúl Ernesto Madrigal Cárdenas, the Cuban Consul General in Istanbul, delivered a speech emphasizing Martí’s timeless works and their relevance to understanding and addressing contemporary global challenges. He highlighted Martí’s role not only as an organizer of Cuba’s independence struggle but also as a keen analyst of international power dynamics, particularly new forms of domination threatening the sovereignty of nations in “Our America.”
Anti-Imperialist Stance and Solidarity with Cuba
Derya Ünlü, speaking on behalf of the JMKDD, underscored Martí’s dedication to Cuba’s freedom from colonial rule and foreign dominance. Ünlü drew parallels between Martí’s historical struggle and Cuba’s current resistance against the intensified blockade imposed by the United States. She asserted that Cuba is writing a “saga of resistance” despite facing severe economic warfare, including its designation as a state sponsor of terrorism and recent measures to impede fuel supplies.
Ünlü emphasized that the aim of these actions is to destabilize Cuba through hunger and poverty, undermine the living standards of its people, suppress fundamental rights like education and healthcare, and ultimately erode Cuba’s sovereignty. However, she affirmed that Cuba stands strong against these pressures, preserving its revolution and the civic rights of its citizens.
The JMKDD’s address concluded with a call for increased solidarity with Cuba in the face of escalating threats and attacks from the United States.
Martí’s Warning Against New Forms of Domination
Consul General Cárdenas further elaborated on Martí’s insights, stating that Martí, drawing from his direct experience in the United States, warned with extraordinary clarity about the dangers of new forms of domination emerging after traditional colonialism. He quoted Martí: “Since independence in America, no issue has required as much intellect and attention as the warning that the confused and savage spirit of the north despises us.”
Cárdenas noted that this teaching holds particular significance given the US administration’s policy of deliberately trying to destroy Cuba’s economy, with the criminal aim of creating scarcity to destabilize the country and overthrow the Cuban Revolution.
Shared Values and Turkish-Cuban Friendship
The Consul General acknowledged Turkey’s deep history, shaped by its unwavering defense of national sovereignty, the right to self-determination, and resistance against external interference. He stated that these shared values explain the strong and ongoing friendship between Cuba and Turkey, as well as the sincere solidarity received from many Turkish friends.
Cárdenas extended heartfelt gratitude to all friends and brothers in solidarity with Cuba for their commitment and support. Addressing Cuban citizens residing in Turkey, he remarked, “Martí lives within you; in your love for your homeland, in the identity you uphold, and in your honorable attitude representing Cuba far from your native land.”
The commemoration concluded with a reaffirmation of commitment to Martí’s legacy of sovereignty, justice, and the unity of peoples, aspiring to a more just, humane, and truly free world. The event ended with chants of “Long live José Martí! Long live Turkey-Cuba friendship!”
Wreaths were laid at the busts of Atatürk and José Martí in the park by the Consulate General, and flowers were also placed by the José Martí Cuba Friendship Association.
Source: https://haber.sol.org.tr/haber/kubanin-ulusal-kahramani-jose-marti-istanbulda-anildi-406183
