“[He was] a massive figure in the history of the whole planet. History will show that Fidel was somebody who stood up for something very, very different in the Caribbean
While a controversial figure, both Mr Castro’s supporters and detractors recognise his tremendous dedication and love for the Cuban people who had a deep and lasting affection for El Comandante.”
François Hollande, president of France: “Fidel Castro was a towering figure of the 20th century. He incarnated the Cuban revolution, in both its hopes and subsequent disillusionments.
France, which condemned human rights abuses in Cuba, had equally challenged the US embargo on Cuba, and France was glad to see the two countries re-establish dialogue and open ties between themselves.”