HAVANA.- (PL) The Union of Writers and Artists of Cuba (Uneac) and the Hermanos Saíz Association (AHS) expressed their sorrow today over the physical disappearance of the historic leader of the Cuban Revolution, Fidel Castro.

A joint statement of the entities of Cuban writers and artists describes Fidel as an example of dignity, courage and ethics throughout his life.

We will continue to be faithful to the thought and action of our Commander-in-Chief, they assured in the text.

Once he expressed to us 'culture is the sword and shield of the nation'; And that maxim will guide all Cuban intellectuals and our revolutionary people, they added.

According to Uneac and the AHS, Fidel Castro was not only an extraordinary political leader but an intellectual committed to his time and humanity.

He will eternally live among us, they concluded.