MOSCOW – Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Saturday that the late Cuban leader Fidel Castro is a symbol of an entire era of the modern history.

Putin sent his condolences to Cuban President Raul Castro and to the Cuban people, according to the Kremlin’s statement.

“The free and independent Cuba built by him and his associates has become an influential member of the international community, and an inspiring example for many countries and peoples,” the note said.

Putin indicated that the Fidel’s death is an irreparable loss.

The Russian president reiterated that Fidel was a man of strength and wisdom, who “always looked straight into the future.”

“He represented the highest ideals of a politician, citizen, and patriot who firmly believed in his cause,” the Russian leader added.

Putin stressed that the late Cuban leader was a sincere and reliable friend of Russia, who contributed enormously to establish and develop Russian-Cuban relations and enhance strategic cooperation in all areas.

Putin added that Castro’s memory will always remain in the hearts of the citizens of Russia.

Relations between Moscow and Havana went into crisis after the fall of the Soviet Union in 1991, but a new strategic alliance has been recently established between the Kremlin and Cuba under Putin.

Castro died late on Friday at the age of 90. The news was announced in an address on state television by the leader’s brother and current president Raul Castro.