Castro Takes Center Stage at U.N. Summit

N E W  Y O R K, Sept. 6 -- Some world leaders are not above making light of themselves.

Cuban dictator Fidel Castro, known for his marathon speeches, took to the U.N. Assembly Hall podium decked out in a dapper dark blue suit — a change from his usual combat fatigues. Staring up at him was a yellow light that warns speakers when their five-minute limit is approaching.

Castro pulled out a white handkerchief and covered the light, and the audience of kings, presidents and prime ministers burst into laughter.

But as he did at the U.N. 50th anniversary celebration five years ago, Castro stuck to the five-minute limit.

Attacking the Rich

And while he started out on a light note of self-mockery, his speech was full of his characteristic fire and fury. Without mentioning the United States by name, Castro told the U.N. Millennium Summit that the principle of sovereignty could not be sacrificed “to an abusive and unfair order that a hegemonic superpower” uses “to try to decide everything by itself.”

Castro, viewed by many developing countries as their premiere spokesman, said rich nations use their power “to make us poorer, more exploited and more dependent.”

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At a lunch in the U.N. Delegates Lounge, which President Clinton also attended, Castro embraced South African President Thabo Mbeki, among others. “I don’t know where they’re taking me,” he joked in Spanish as he was led to his seat.

The summit, which continues until Friday, is an attempt by world leaders to chart the course of the United Nations in the 21st century — particularly its efforts to forge peace.

Rogue States

President Clinton is hosting a gala banquet at the Metropolitan Museum of Art for world leaders attending the summit, but it was unclear if Castro had been invited.

“I think that he’s not invited,” said White House spokesman Joe Lockhart.

By contrast, North Korea — which pulled its delegation in protest after it was searched by U.S. security at Frankfurt airport — said its representatives were invited.