Accra, Sept 17, GNA - On behalf of the government and people of Ghana, Vice President John Dramani Mahama on Thursday consoled the Government and people of Cuba over the death of Juan Almeida Bosque, one of the Vice-presidents of the Council of State of Cuba, who died last Friday.

Signing a book of condolence at the Cuba Embassy in Ghana, Mr Mahama said, "once again we have lost a true comrade and patriot. "Comrade Almeida represents the true spirit and essence of the Cuban revolution," he said.

The signing of the book goes a long way to further consolidate the bond of friendship and solidarity between Ghana and Cuba. Vice President Mahama commended Cuba for being supportive of Ghana's independence movement, as well as continuing to demonstrate its commitment to the relationship with Ghana over the years. Dr Miguel Pe'rez Cruz, Cuban Ambassador to Ghana, said the sympathy Ghana has shown over the death of Comrade Almeida buttresses the strong and cordial relationship between the two countries.

Comrade Almeida, the Commander of the Cuban Revolution, was a direct participant in the first line of combat alongside former President Fidel Castro and President Ra=FAl Castro, as well as a creative musician and writer.