Cuban leader congratulates Chavez on re-election

Cuban leader Raul Castro has congratulated Venezuela's Hugo Chavez on his election victory and reiterated "unwavering solidarity and support." "On behalf of the Cuban government and people, I congratulate you on this historic triumph, demonstrating the strength of the Bolivarian revolution and its unquestionable popular support," Castro said in a message published by the official Granma newspaper. "Your decisive victory ensures the continuity of the struggle for the genuine integration of Latin America," he added. Chavez, 58, was re-elected Sunday for a new six-year term to lead the South American nation and pursue his "21st century socialism" project of greater nationalization. Venezuela is Cuba's main economic and political ally. Currently more than 45,000 Cuban professionals are serving in the social projects undertaken by Chavez, while Venezuela supplies 10,000 barrels of oil per day to the island country at preferential prices.