Havana  - Guatemalan President Alvaro Colom "officially" apologized to Cuba for his country's involvement in the 1961 Bay of Pigs invasion sponsored by the US government.

On the final day of a state visit to the island, Colom also decorated Fidel Castro with Guatemala's highest award, and condemned the continuing US economic embargo against Cuba.

Taipei - President Alvaro Colom of Guatemala, one of the 23 countries which recognize Taiwan, is set to arrive in Taipei Tuesday evening as the island is trying to cement ties with its allies.

Colom will visit for four days and attend Taiwan's National Day celebrations on October 10. He will hold talks with President Ma Ying-jeou on strengthening ties and receive an honorary degree from the Chinese Culture University, the ministry said.

Colom will be accompanied by Foreign Minister Roger Haroldo Rodas and other Guatemalan officials and reporters.

Taipei - President Alvaro Colom

Taipei  - Guatemalan President