Raul Castro warns of anti-Cuba 'campaign'

Cuba's President Raul Castro addresses the crowd during an event marking the 55th anniversary of the revolution that brought Fidel Castro to power on January 1, 1959, in Santiago de Cuba January 1, 2014. [Photo/Agencies]

HAVANA - Cuban leader Raul Castro warned Wednesday that someone is waging "a permanent political and ideological campaign" in a bid to dismantle the island nation's socialism from within.

Castro made the remarks at a ceremony marking the 55th anniversary of the Cuban Revolution in Cespedes Park, where former leader Fidel Castro proclaimed victory in 1959.

He also denounced any attempts to introduce neo-liberal thought and return to capitalism and neo-colonialism.

The leader reaffirmed Cuba would defend its right to self-determination and national sovereignty, and promote solidarity with the peoples of the Third World.

He urged the new generation of local leaders, who would gradually assume responsibility, not to forget "that this is a socialist revolution for the humble ones, of the humble ones and for the humble ones".

Castro called for continued efforts to perfect and deepen democracy in Cuba by following the principle of consulting the people directly on vital decisions.

He said Cuba now had regional support, because it was a symbol of humanism and defense of principles and ethical values.

The ceremony was attended by senior commandants and soldiers from the two-year guerrilla war against dictator Fulgencio Batista, leaders of the Communist Party and the government, and representatives of the people.