Paarl, South Africa - President Nelson Mandela denounced US sanctions against Cuba before bestowing South Africa's highest civilian order for foreigners on Cuban President Fidel Castro here yesterday.
Mr Mandela, who has long been at odds with the United States over his friendship with Dr Castro, said South Africa "is proud to be amongst the majority of nations who affirm the right of the Cuban people to determine their own destiny."
He added: "Sanctions which punish them for having decided to do so are anathema to the international order to which we aspire."
Earlier in Cape Town, Dr Castro was given a rousing welcome by President Mandela and his ruling ANC, but his address to parliament was shunned by the National Party.
