Isaura Daniel, special envoy*
Doha – The Cuban Fidel Castro did not show up to the Second South Summit, the meeting between the developing countries that are included in the G-77, but sent a message that was read today (15), at the Sheraton Hotel, in the capital of Qatar, during the opening of the meeting between the heads of state of the nations that are members of the group.
Castro, in his message, stated that it is already evident that the Millennium Goals, stipulated by the United Nations (UN) in the year 2000 to stimulate growth of the poorer countries, will not be reached.
The greatest fact criticised by the president of Cuba is the lack of help of developed countries to developing countries. According to Fidel, rich nations are not accomplishing their target of turning 0.7% of their Gross Domestic Products (GDPs) to help the less developed nations. "Assistance to development is not even 0.2%, the United States contribute with only 0.1%," according to the letter.
Developed country assistance to developing nations was stipulated before the creation of the Millennium Goals, but is also included in them.
*The journalist travelled at the invitation of Qatar News Agency. Translated by Mark Ament
