Brazil's President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva said on Thursday in Brasilia that there are no political, ethical and moral reasons for the U.S. embargo against Cuba to continue.

The statement was made during the first visit of Cuban President Raul Castro to Brazil. Lula also defended the inclusion of Cuba in the Organization of American States (OAS).

Lula praised the Cuban Revolution of 1959, which according to him served as an inspiration to an entire generation of Brazilians during the country's military regime, which lasted from 1964 to 1985.

"The legacy of that revolutionary people inspired us during the terrible times of oppression and continues to motivate us to build a better world," he said.

He added that the Revolution has helped Cuba grow into an extremely developed nation in terms of health and education.

On the international economic system, Lula said when the greed of the minority threatens the well-being of the majority, a review of the international financial system should not be delayed.

The president praised Castro for its adherence to international treaties in areas such as civil, political, and economic rights.

President Castro thanked Brazil's rejection of the U.S. embargo and for the aid sent to Cuban victims of hurricanes, which caused huge damage to Cuba this year.

According to Castro, the losses amounted to 20 percent of Cuba's gross domestic product.