MOSCOW: In a telegram to the Cuban President Raul Castro cited by the Kremlin on Saturday, Russian President Vladimir Putin called Fidel Castro – the socialist Cuban icon who has died aged 90 – as the ‘symbol of an era.’ “Fidel is rightly considered as the symbol of an era in modern world history,” Putin said, “Fidel Castro was Russia’s sincere and reliable friend.” Putin added that Castro managed to build a free and independent Cuba that became an influential member of the international community and served as an inspiration for many countries. Fidel Castro’s death: The world reacts Putin also hailed Castro as a strong and wise person who looked to the future with confidence. “He embodied the high ideals of a politician, a citizen and a patriot sincerely,” Putin said, “His memory will remain in the hearts of the citizens of Russia forever.” Putin also said that Castro made a huge personal contribution in the establishing and developing the country’s bilateral relations. President Raul Castro, who took power after his elder brother Fidel was hospitalised in 2006, said that the revolutionary leader’s remains will be cremated.