Top Chinese communist visits Fidel Castro

HAVANA — Former president Fidel Castro stressed on Tuesday the "importance" of Chinese socialism during a visit by a top official from China's Communist Party.

Castro "underscored the advances of the Chinese people and the importance of socialism with Chinese characteristics" during a two-hour meeting with Politburo member He Guoqiang, according to Cuba's International Press Center.

His comment on China is certain to spark debate by Cuba watchers at a time of uncertainty about the communist island's future under Castro's brother Raul.

Raul Castro, who replaced the ailing 81-year-old Fidel in February, is said to admire China's blend of authoritarian political control with a free-market economy.

But several Cuban officials have rejected speculation that Cuba will adopt the Chinese model, insisting that the island will follow its own path.

The Cuban government tightly controls the economy in a more strict communist model. But the Cuban economy has suffered, and many Cubans feel strapped by controls that include food rations and government salaries of about $19 a month.

The elder Castro's meeting with the Chinese leader was the latest in a series of recent encounters with visiting dignitaries. The revolutionary leader also has written more essays — including three over the weekend — in a sign that his health may be improving.

Fidel Castro's exact medical ailment and condition have remained state secrets since he underwent emergency intestinal surgery in late July 2006. He has not appeared in public since.

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