Start of an Intense Electoral and Legislative Year
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YEAR XII
NO 1
JAN 5, 2023
HAVANA,
CUBA
ISSN 2224-5707
Price: 1.00 USD / 1.20 CAN
Start of an Intense Electoral and
Legislative Year
P. 3
Cuba Culture Economy Sports
ALBA-TCP: Fiart returned Argentina, Messi and
Economic
Finding Solutions with resilient and Yulimar Headed Prensa
Projections for 2023 Latina Sports Poll
for the Peoples sustainable art
P. 8 P. 9 P. 13 P. 15
2 TOURISM
Towards tourism recovery with 359, 034 vacation travelers from January to October
2022.
In any case, experts and the Cuban Tourism Ministry
By FranciscoMENÉNDEZ itself an inflow of foreign currency from that sector of (Mintur) expect that 2023 to be a better year, and to
1.672 million dollars. allow for a gradual, but a more accelerated recovery of
Tourism generates the second largest share of the gross this sector, that is why investments on hotels are being
HAVANA.- The optimism of Cuban authorities on the domestic product (PIB) and the second largest source of maintained.
recovery of the travel industry to the island is potential foreign currency in Cuba, after the export of professional The country has more than 80,000 rooms in some 300
and it expects better results in 2023 with the ongoing services, mainly in the health sector. hotel facilities nationwide, mostly four and five-star,
efforts. Specialized sources stated that Italian tourists are and is making efforts to reinforce that plant in Havana,
This criteria was reiterated at the Government’s main among those who resumed their vacation trips to the the main arrival point for foreign vacationers.
conclaves, such is the recent case of the National Caribbean nation from January to October 2022, and
Assembly of People´s Power (Parliament) which although they still do not occupy a prominent position
examined at the end of 2022 the most relevant aspects in the list of recovery, they do maintain a gradual ascent.
in terms of society and economy. Official statistics corroborated that travelers are already
Despite the fact that the figures initially raised as a returning to the Caribbean country from Canada,
possibility (2.5 million foreign visitors) were not reached, the United States, Spain, Germany, Russia, the United
the sector´s directors expect to receive 3.5 million Kingdom, France, Italy and Mexico.
tourists in 2023, one million more than those planned in The oficial figures published also mention Cubans
2022, although far from that of 2019, which reached four living abroad, surpassed by Canada and followed by the
million before the Covid-19 pandemic. United States.
Cuba expected to receive 2,5 million foreign visitors The report underlined that the result of the first 10
last year, but this forecast was reduced to 1,7 million, a months of 2022 represents 580 percent more than in the
reduction of almost a third. same period of 2021.
In addition to the increase of travelers in 2023, Experts consider that the Italian issuing market
announced by Cuban Tourism Minister Juan Carlos contributed with 177, 652 tourists to Cuba in 2018,
García in November at the tourism fair in London, in the although the figure fell by 133, 217 in 2019. Canada, as Tourism generates the second largest share of the PIB and the second
United Kingdom, the 2023 Economic Plan contemplates usual, keeps leading the issuing market to the island largest source of foreign currency in Cuba. PHOTO: Prensa Latina.
Muthu Hotels Increases Presence in Jardines del Rey reviews of its clients, the different virtual
platforms, he added.
The hotel’s original architecture, its
By NeisaMESA DEL TORO The facility, which is part of the new administration, they hope to increase colonial motivations, cobbled stone
Cubanacán group, is the first four-star the arrival of tourists, as Muthu Hotels streets and small squares that resemble
hotel managed by this Indian company in has a solid market and has connections the neoclassical style that characterized
CIEGO DE AVILA.- The MGM Muthu Hotels Cuba, in a destination that stands out for with renowned tour operators and travel the time of the colony in Cuba, turn
chain increased its presence in the Jardines its natural and cultural values, in addition agencies worldwide. the facility into the most famous hotel
del Rey tourist destination after assuming to the hospitality of its people and its In the course of this year’s high tourist in this tourist region, located in the
the management of the Colonial Cayo safety. season, the number of foreign visitors has northern keys of the Ciego de Ávila
Coco hotel, in the northern coast of this Director of the Colonial Cayo Coco Hotel, increased as a result of the promotional province.
central Cuban province. Rodolfo Martínez, stated that with the activity in the social media and the positive Opened on November 12, 1993,
by historical leader of the Cuban
Revolution Fidel Castro, the facility has
458 rooms in 23 room modules and is
on the first line of beach, surrounded
by natural lakes.
The Indian company also manages other
three hotels in Jardines del Rey: Grand
Muthu Cayo Guillermo, Grand Muthu
Imperial and Grand Muthu Rainbow – the
latter, the first hotel in Cuba addressed to
the LGBTI segment, with a quality service
and high standard.
The headquarters of this hotel chain, which
was founded about 10 years ago, is located
in Portugal. The company manages 54
hotels worldwide in countries such as
France, England, Spain and Scotland, in
destinations such as Algarve, Malaga,
Colonial Cayo Coco is the first four-star hotel managed by this Indian company in Cuba. PHOTO: ACN. Almeria and Tenerife, among others.
. . .
.
SOCIETY HEALTH & SCIENCE POLITICS CULTURE
.
ENTERTAINMENT PHOTO FEATURE ECONOMY
SPORTS AND MORE .
President: Luis Enrique González Translation: Yanely Interián Publisher: Agencia Informativa Latinoamericana
Editorial Vice President: Lianet Arias Graphic Designers: Fernando Fernández Tito Prensa Latina, S.A.
Editorial Director: Ariel Barredo Coya Chief Graphic Editor: Francisco González Calle E, esq. 19 No. 454, Vedado, La Habana-4, Cuba
Art Direction: Anathais Rodríguez Assistant Staff: Yaimara Portuondo Telephone: (53)7838-3496 / 7832-3578
Chief Editor: Ilsa Rodríguez Santana Advertising: René García Fax: (53)7833-3068 E-mail: thr@prensa-latina.cu
English Editor: Isabel García Circulation: Commercial Department
Printing: Prensa Latina
CUBA 3
Start of an Intense Cuban Communist
Electoral and Party’s Vanguard Role
Legislative Year By ErnestoVERA of the U.S. blockade and the unprecedented
increase of international prices as some of
its causes.
HAVANA.- President and First Secretary On top of that, we have to mention the
of the Cuban Communist Party (PCC) mistakes made in the implementation
Miguel Díaz-Canel urged to improve the of measures addressed at fostering the
work of the political organization through economy, he added.
the proper implementation of actions In relation to those sectors that have an
directed to the country’s socio-economic impact on foreign currency generation,
development. Gil commented that the export of goods
At the closing of the V PCC Plenary shows a recovery in the case of nickel, cigars,
Session, last December, the President rum, honey and sea products; however, the
highlighted the importance of the work tourism sector foresees 1.7 million visitors
mass organizations and other associations – about 800,000 less than planned – while
of civil society have conducted as part of national production in general shows a
the battle against the U.S. economic war slow recovery.
and the brutal psychological campaign On this scenario, the Cuban President urged
promoted from that country to overthrow to strengthen the PCC domestic control on
the Cuban revolutionary process. the socio-economic plans and processes,
The Cuban leader stressed the role the PCC without diminishing the responsibility of
has to play, as the vanguard of society, in the bodies of the People’s Power and the
the battle against the economic and social General Finance Office of the Republic,
problems. among other institutions and bodies.
He recalled that Cuba has also withstood He pointed out that the Cuban people
“nature’s powerful impact and those caused understand and face the adversary's
Programs aimed at facing economic difficulties will continue to be boosted. PHOTO: ACN.
by our mistakes, but without kneeling nor attack, but "that resistance may falter
giving up hope of prosperity.” and creativity suffers when the people
By EverMELLADO Parliament, he called for creative and Díaz-Canel affirmed that the work of the collide with bureaucracy, idleness,
innovative work to promote the actions PCC, the consecration of its members and corruption of certain intermediate
implemented for national progress the heroic character of the Cuban people layers that fish in the troubled river of
HAVANA.- Cuba will start 2023 preparing In this sense, the Economy Plan for 2023, have allowed facing complex situations difficulties by putting obstacles where
for elections scheduled for March 26, when approved on the occasion of the meeting, such as those linked to the pandemic of solutions are going".
deputies to the Parliament will be elected defines the objectives to attain an effective COVID-19, in addition to large-magnitude The President reiterated that the current
and whose members will then elect the and rapid progress in that direction. accidents. situation is complex and difficult and the
President of the Republic. At that meeting, held at the Havana’s During the two-day session, the adversary takes advantage of it to meet
The electoral cycle started last November 27 Conference Center, Díaz-Canel stressed participants analyzed topics related to the its purpose; thus, he urged to be united,
with municipal elections and will conclude the importance of attaining a gradual but control of inflation, electricity generation determined and creative to face difficulties.
with the election of the Head of State in the sustained increase of foreign incomes, to and the importance of increasing the offer The main leader of the PCC also urged
second semester of 2023. help solve the current macro-economic of basic products, among others. its members to make a more efficient
While this happens, programs aimed at unbalance, which is seen in inflation, At the meeting, the Minister of Economics work through self-control and popular
facing economic difficulties – some of shortage of supplies, among other aspects and Planning Alejandro Gil informed that empowerment by different channels
them linked to food sovereignty, stability that have an impact on the population’s the growth levels foreseen for 2022 were which, he affirmed, does not diminish the
of the national electro-energy system and quality of life. not met, and referred to the strengthening organization’s vanguard nature.
COVID-19 control – will continue to be In that sense, he encouraged to work,
boosted. innovate, strengthen circular economy and
The island will also conduct a comprehensive attain the development of the socialist state
legislative schedule that complements the company, so that this meets its role.
Constitution approved in 2019 and will take The President also stated that attention to
place amidst the strengthening of the U.S. vulnerable people and communities and
blockade, the world economic crisis and the boost socio-economic development from
consequences of the pandemic. the municipal level, making a better use of
Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel recently the potentials each territory of the country
affirmed that the nature of the U.S. policy has, are included among the priorities for
towards Cuba indicates that Washington’s 2023.
siege can go on for years, thus the need Those aspects characterized the debates
of uniting forces to solve problems, face of the 10th ordinary session of the IX ANPP
limitations, channel development and Legislature, held from December 12 to 14,
denounce such policy in every space. 2022, when four legislations were approved
When giving an account of his and several ministries gave an account of
administration at the National Assembly of their work.
the People's Power (ANPP, Parliament), on The legislations mentioned before include
December 14, the Head of State urged to the following: Law of the General Finance
eliminate bureaucracy, remove obstacles Office of the Republic; Attorney General’s
and overcome self-satisfaction, in order to Office Law; Law of Expropriation on account
make rapid and sustained progress in the of Public Utility or Social Interest, and Law for
President highlighted the importance of the work conducted as part of the battle against
consolidation of Socialism in Cuba. Cattle Raising Promotion and Development,
the U.S. economic war. PHOTO: Estudios Revolución.
During the tenth ordinary session of in addition to the State Budget Law for 2023.
4 CUBA-U.S.A
A New U.S.-Cuba Thaw?
By DeisyFRANCIS at the executive mansion, but according to immigrant visas will be processed at the When giving an account of his
experts The Havana Reporter interviewed, U.S. embassy in Havana. administration at the Cuban Parliament,
it was clear that after he came to power, on In 2022, the United States first met Díaz-Canel acknowledged that “modest
HAVANA.- Recent visits to Cuba of U.S. January 2021, that “urgency” disappeared its commitment of granting 20,000 steps directed to channel bilateral
Congressional Representatives and under the excuse that “Cuba is not a immigrant visas, as foreseen in the 1994 cooperation to meet migratory agreements
agricultural business executives, in priority.” agreements. and those of other areas of priority among
addition to the resumption of migratory In fact, the continuity of Trump’s coercive On December 10th, Cuban President both countries” were taken, but “the main
talks, are some of the events that quietly measures had a greater negative effect in Miguel Díaz-Canel welcomed a delegation and ultimate feature of the bilateral link is
moved the stagnant bilateral relationship a context aggravated by the pandemic of of congresspersons headed by Democrat still the economic blockade.”
in 2022. COVID-19. Representative James McGovern, and in In the first 14 months of the Biden
A new thaw? That is the question experts However, on April 2022, authorities from November, another group of U.S. legislators administration, the blockade caused
and mass media ask when referring to this both countries resumed migratory talks was welcomed at the headquarters of the damages for over 6.3 billion dollars, and
topic, in a year in which slight signs were in Washington, and then in Havana, in National Assembly, where food production from August 2021 to February 2022, the
shown in that direction, after the backward November. was the key topic of the discussions. cost amounted to 3.8 billion dollars.
step taken during the Donald Trump’s four- On May 16, the Biden government
year administration (2017-2021). announced a group of provisions in areas
The Republican was responsible such as migration, travels and exchanges,
for reversing the steps taken by his financing to the private sector and
predecessor, Democrat Barack Obama remittances, although the extreme-
(2009-2017), who, in the last years of his pressure policy is still in effect: Cuba is in
term in office, changed the policy towards Washington’s unilateral list of countries
Cuba, which was then characterized by that sponsor terrorism.
the carrot and not the stick. In addition, travel limitations continue,
Trump, however, applied an extreme- as well as the application of Title III of
pressure policy whose main sign was the the Helms-Burton Act, in addition to
strengthening of the blockade, through trade prohibition, restricted entities,
243 additional measures. On top of that, prohibited lodging, limited dialogue and
during his last days in the White House, financial persecution.
he decided to include Cuba in the list of However, the announcement of the
countries that foster terrorism. resumption of the family reunification
Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel welcomed a delegation of congresspersons headed by
That is a policy his successor, Democrat program was favorably received, as well
Democrat Representative James McGovern. PHOTO: Estudios Revolución.
Joe Biden, promised to revert at his arrival as the fact that, as of January 4, 2023, all
Love for the Flag
of relations that allow families in both countries to meet. renew their condemnation of the blockade and fight
One of the largest solidarity demonstrations conducted for presenting on the U.S. media the truth about
in the U.S. in 2022 was the one held on October 29 in the Cuban people and government, which is often
New York, prior to the vote of a resolution on the need silenced.
By IvetteFERNÁNDEZ to put an end to Washington’s unilateral siege at the UN The People’s Forum was able to give visibility to calls
General Assembly. in favor of the island at a press release published on
The activity was included among the over 30 actions the Sunday edition of The New York Times, in which it
HAVANA.- The battle against the economic, commercial designed to demand the government of President demanded the U.S. government to “act right now to help
and financial blockade imposed by the United States on Joe Biden to change the policy toward Cuba, and was the Caribbean people,” after the pass of Hurricane Ian.
Cuba for over six decades adds unconditional friends year conducted by a coalition composed of over 100 friendly For its part, Codepink recently presented at the
after year, even at the very heart of the U.S. associations under the motto “UN Vote 4 Cuba.” Department of State a request signed by over 10,000
A sign of that are the constant solidarity demonstrations Associations such as Black Alliance for Peace, Party people and about one hundred associations that
conducted all over the U.S. and materialized in the form for Socialism and Liberation, Democratic Socialists demanded the elimination of Cuba from the list of
of donations, caravans in favor of the normalization of of America and Nemo (NoEmbargoCuba) frequently countries that sponsor terrorism.
relations between both nations and formal requests to
federal entities to eliminate that cruel, punitive policy.
The assistance gathered by Cubans living abroad and
sent to the island by groups such as the Bridges of Love
Movement, to mention one, benefitted pediatric hospitals
in 2022, which received supplies for liver transplants and
food.
Other associations, such as Codepink and The People’s
Forum, accompanied Cuba through summons to send
material aid after disasters such as the explosion at the
Saratoga Hotel, in Havana (May) and the fire at the oil
supertanker base, in Matanzas (August), in addition to
the devastating Hurricane Ian caused in the Pinar del Río
province in September.
However, the main contribution these associations make
is their constant demand in favor of the lifting of the U.S.
blockade and the elimination of Cuba from the list of
countries that sponsor terrorism.
The holding of caravans and demonstrations in Miami
and other U.S. cities, on the last Sunday of every month,
The assistance gathered by Cubans living abroad was sent to the island by groups such as the
has become a tradition. Such actions urge to end the cruel
Bridges of Love Movement. PHOTO: José Tito Meriño.
stance against the island and demand the normalization
HEALTH & SCIENCE 5
Health Sector’s
Challenges in 2023
By LourdesPÉREZ as part of the project aimed at improving
pharmaceutical services nationwide, and
thus close medications’ cycle.
HAVANA.- The Cuban health sector will face If this experience is positive, all pharmaceutical
several challenges in 2023, after more than companies in the country will be gradually
two years using the financing available to attached to that entrepreneurial group.
purchase diagnostic kits and other supplies The Minister stressed that in spite of efforts,
needed to fight COVID-19. “the scenario will continue to be complex
Guaranteeing the logistics the national health and it would not be responsible to make
system needs; opening hospital services a commitment in relation to figures nor to
that are in great but accumulated demand; say that we will not have difficulties.”
updating medical technologies; eliminating The program’s priority is still guaranteeing
breach in the availability of supplies, as far “the availability of medications, medical
as possible, and attaining stability in the technologies and pharmaceutical services
production and import of medications, are that guarantee the functioning of the Health
included among those challenges. System, as well as the strengthening of the
As Health Minister, José Ángel Portal, said at Natural and Traditional Medicine Program,”
the Parliament, last December, 53 percent of he said.
the financial resources given to the sector
in recent years were dedicated to the fight HOSPITAL SERVICES
against the pandemic, in detriment of the Even though in 2022 efforts were directed
rest of the services. in endorsing the opening of services in
He added that by the end of December 5, high demand and accumulated for over
there was a shortage of 219 medications in two years, increasing specialized practices,
the country and 197 had a coverage of less attending patients waiting for surgeries and
than 30 days – 73 of them are imported and giving priority to the mother-child program’s
146 are nationally produced. logistics, are included among the challenges
Subjective difficulties also determine the for the present cycle.
current reality this sector faces, such as the On top of this, the country faces limitations
wrong use of medications due to inadequate in basic disposable material items and there
and indulgent prescription; organizational are critical resources – such as catheters,
and control-related problems; criminal transfusion equipment, hip prosthesis
activity, and pharmaceutical staff’s insufficient and collectors, among others – the health
preparation.
In this context, Portal announced that in 2023,
authorities closely follow.
Portal stated that we also have difficulties
Cuban biotechnology is health for all
a new work model will be implemented in the with the technology; for this reason,
pharmacy and optician shops’ network in the equipment’s technical availability coefficient By CiraRODRIGUEZ some in the initial phase, others in the
Cuban capital, on an experimental basis. meet 91 percent at present and solutions are intermediate phase and in the final
Havana’s Pharmacy Company will be attached found to get spare parts for imagery, cancer stages of clinical trials, some unique in
to the BioCubaFarma Entrepreneurial Group treatment and endoscopy equipment. HAVANA.- More than three decades ago, the world, and designed for conditions
Cuba began a path that led it to become a that still have no solution.
world power in biotechnology, recognized Among them, he mentioned NeuralCIM
for its innovative products with high (NeuroEpo), for the treatment of
quality standards and social benefits for Alzheimer's, which is also being evaluated
thousands of people. in dementia, Parkinson's, ataxia, and
This has been possible due to the stroke. It is a medicine whose results
strategy of having highly qualified are encouraging, now in phase IV of
professionals in the so-called closed cycle studies and with which work is being
(research + development + production + done to produce it on a large scale, meet
commercialization). This strategy measures national demand and export. Added to
the effect of the results, how many diseases this is Heberprot-P, a leading product
are avoided, how many people are saved, with several years in the market for
what vaccinations are achieved and what diabetic foot ulcers, currently undergoing
protocol is established to control pests and reformulation as an innovative controlled
diseases or to improve crop yields. release system based on nanotechnology,
On this basis, the Cuban pharmaceutical with the possibility of achieving healing of
and biotechnology sectors are moving injuries in less time.
in 2023 towards strengthening Within the projects, Martínez commented
this practice, which is key in a very on vaccines against cancer, since in Cuba
competitive industry and in which this disease is the second cause of death.
the projection is the development of It has an anti-angiogenic action, with
innovative and unique drugs. In recent encouraging results and could reach
statements to The Havana Reporter, registration in 2023. This product has
the president of the Biopharmaceutical been tested in solid tumors and various
and Biotechnological Industries types of cancer. In terms of investment,
Minister José Ángel Portal informed that by the end of December 5, there was a shortage of 219 Business Group, Biocubafarma, Eduardo the Biotechnological Industrial Complex of
medications in the country. PHOTO: ACN. Martínez presented this year's projects, Mariel stands out.
6 CULTURE
Filmmakers Appreciate the Havana Film Festival
By MarioMUÑOZ Because of the validity of the texts, based on a true
story, the film also received the Best Script Award,
which went to the hands of Mariano Llinás and
HAVANA.- The 43rd edition of the International Festival Santiago Mitre – the latter, winner of the Signis Award
of New Latin American Cinema concluded with an for its accurate approximation to the past from a deep
invitation to the next meeting in 2023 and thanks to approach.
Cuba from all filmmakers participating in the event, With the invitation of enjoying the “cinema in style”
who agreed on its importance for world cinema. – the Festival’s slogan – Havana welcomed, from
At the closing ceremony, on December 11th, Kiro December 1st to 11th, over 100 titles in competition,
Russo – director of the multiple prizewinning film in addition to a varied proposal of presentations and
El gran movimiento (Bolivia) – highlighted the collateral activities.
importance of the event to portray history, reality and According to the organizing committee, the jury
the conflicts Latin American nations face, in addition received over 2,000 films from all Latin American
to the possibility creators from the region have to meet countries, specially Argentina, Mexico and Brazil,
together. which were also selected for the Latin America in
One of the most moving moments of Havana’s largest Perspective exhibition and the Special Presentation
film festival was the granting of the Honorary Coral section.
Award to Cuban singer and songwriter Silvio Rodríguez, The program included a theoretical event that paid
who said he received the award on behalf of his late Kiro Russo, director of the multiple prizewinning film El gran tribute to Cuban filmmaker Nicolás Guillén Landrián
fellow members of the Grupo de Experimentación movimiento. PHOTO: Miguel Guzmán through the screening of a documentary on his imprint,
Sonora del ICAIC (Cuban Film Institute), including by Ernesto Daranas and the analysis of the audiovisual
Pablo Milanés, Sergio Vitier, Noel Nicola, Emiliano The film received the Special Jury Prize at the Venice Inside Downtown (2001), which Landrián personally
Salvador and Eduardo Ramos, among others. Orizzonti section and has been included in the official made in the United States.
Bolivian, Argentinean and Brazilian films stood out in selection of several of the world’s most important The Festival’s collateral agenda included the screening
the festival and showed their consolidation in Latin film festivals, such as the San Sebastian and New York of Restored Classics, International Contemporary
America’s seventh art after their huge box-office hit in festivals. Panorama; the exhibition of 30 posters by artists from
several categories in competition. Russo was the main The film Argentina, 1985, by Santiago Mitre, was also one 11 countries, and editorial launches by the Cuban Film
winner of the event, as his production won the Best of the main winners of this event. The film, which tells Institute.
Film, Best Direction, Sound and Edition categories. the story of the trials conducted as a result of the civic- Founded on December 3, 1979 by Cuban filmmaker
El gran movimiento was premièred at the Venice military dictatorship (1976-1983), won the Best Male Alfredo Guevara, the Festival’s main distinction is the
International Film Festival, on September 6th, 2021 and this Actor Coral Award – for the role Ricardo Darín played as Grand Coral Award, which symbolized the Caribbean’s
year, it started to be exhibited in the distribution circuits. lawyer Julio Strassera – and the Artistic Direction Award. coral reefs.
Marcel Dousse’s A través de la ventana are aimed at seeing a better world, Dousse
carries his camera during his journeys and
interested in photographing the reality of
the different ethnic groups.
has turned this art into a shelter, while Influenced somehow by his Lausanne fellow
By ClaudiaHERNÁNDEZ which the inhabitants fill in with graffiti, being a mean to access and understand countrymen, renowned photographer
advertisements and posters, said the complex realities. Luc Chessex – who settled in Cuba from
organizers of the exhibit. The variety of colors and shapes present in 1961 to 1974 and was his longtime
HAVANA.- The photographic exhibition Described as a permanent life traveler, a the architectonic elements characterizes mentor – Dousse’s black and white works
A través de la ventana (Through the philanthropist whose dreams and work the work of this Swiss artist, who is recall that renewed way of conceiving
window), on display in the Cuban capital, urban documental photography, where
characterizes the creative universe of immediate response to explore the
famous Swiss artist Marcel Dousse, whose environment is essentially the result of a
visual discourse focuses on social dynamics keen eye.
in other parts of the world. Dousse previously exhibited in Cuba
The series, exhibited in Havana for the a work inspired by new scenarios and
first time, is a photographic test that entitled El otro lado de la vuelta (The
gathers small fragments of cities the artist other side of the turn), at Fototeca de
photographed while touring the world. Cuba.
Going from street creativity to landscapes The present work, curated by List Gallery’s
created in popular neighborhoods as specialists Lisandra Aguilar and Lisset
a result of the passing of time, the Going from street creativity to landscapes created in popular neighborhoods, the artist considers Alonso, is on display at the Havana Level
artist considers the city a huge gallery the city a huge gallery. PHOTO: Prensa Latina. gallery.
SPOTLIGHT 7
El Salvador:
Disagreement
about the
War against
Gangs
SAN SALVADOR..- The war the
By LuisBEATÓN
members, their influence is still present in
government of President Nayib Bukele several U.S. states.
launched in 2022 against gangs, triggers According to studies revealed by the Studies revealed estimate that the gangs’ annual profits amounted to over 740 million dollars. PHOTO: Internet.
strong disagreement due to the diversity La Opinión newspaper, Salvadoran
of topics that have an impact on the immigrants who ran away from the war
president’s plan to clear the nation’s created the gangs in Los Angeles, but when
streets of homicides and violence. the deportation policy started, thousands
At least 87 Salvadorans lost their lives of Salvadorans were sent back and both
last March due to actions attributed to gangs settled in El Salvador and Honduras.
those groups, whom the State describes Like a cancer, they spread through
as terrorists because of the actions they the region, particularly through El
conduct against the rest of the society. Salvador, Honduras and Guatemala
As a result, the fight against gangs triangle, controlling neighborhoods,
(Salvatrucha M-13, 18 sureños and 18 municipalities, departments and
revolucionarios) became an official policy penetrating spheres of power, some
aimed at creating an atmosphere of safety experts say.
that allows making progress in the tourist Studies revealed by Salvadoran
development plans and guaranteeing authorities and news media estimate
the safety of the population, a hostage of that the gangs’ annual profits amounted
those groups’ violence. to over 740 million dollars, which were
Measures taken in that direction obtained through extortion, murders,
include the implementation of the drug trafficking and other illicit acts
State of Exception endorsed by the that had the Bukele government on the
Legislative Power at the request of the rack and forced him to take actions to
government, which suspended free stop the scourge of armed violence and
association and demonstration and the homicides.
right to defense, while allowing tapping In spite of criticisms, the majority of
telecommunications and correspondence the Salvadorans currently approve
and extending administrative detention the measures the government has
for 15 days “to give prosecutors time to implemented to fight those gangs and
investigate.” recover the streets for society, according
By the end of 2022, the Legislative to Gallup surveys.
Assembly (Parliament) extended the According to a new evaluation on the
regime of exception for the eighth number of gang members, the present
occasion, which no doubt was used to figure does not stand at 76,000, as
face gang members and allowed the Salvadoran Vice-President Félix Ulloa told
government to make progress in the The Havana Reporter in an exclusive
results of a policy that few considered interview, in which he affirmed that the
successful, due to gangs’ power. State of Exception would be in place until
Those groups did not emerge in this the last terrorist is behind bars.
country; they were the result of the The new figure – 118,000 terrorists, as
extradition of thousands of immigrants governmental authorities call them – will
from the U.S. territory. MS-13 and Barrio necessarily extend the State of Exception
18 were born in the United States in the and all the deployment of technology
second half of the 20th century, and and logistics the government has used to
in spite of the expulsion of many gang fight them.
8 CUBA
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
ALBA-TCP: Finding The Summit concluded with a 22-point political declaration
that ratified the bloc’s progressive stance on strategic
topics about the world’s political context.
Solutions for the Peoples
In that sense, endorsement of the governments of Bolivia,
Nicaragua, Venezuela and Cuba was ratified in the light
of the attempts to subvert the domestic order; in favor of
the Caribbean nations’ right to receive a special and fair
treatment in international relations and in condemnation
of the ‘lawfare’ acts in Argentina and Peru.
By JoséFERNÁNDEZ of energy, transportation and logistics, agriculture and Once again, the ALBA-TCP members condemned the
biotechnology, which would allow complementing and U.S. blockade on Cuba, demanded the fulfillment of the
strengthening unity. agreements reached at the Climate Change Summit
HAVANA.- Eighteen years after its foundation, the Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro categorically said (COP27) and praised the progress made in the peace talks
Bolivarian Alliance for the Peoples of Our America-Peoples’ that ALBA must show in practice, as Latin America and in Colombia and between the government of Nicolás
Trade Treaty (ALBA-TCP) faces the challenge of proposing the Caribbean’s political, cultural, social and economic Maduro and the Venezuelan opposition.
practical ways to replicate its political success in the vanguard group, that it is superior to any other mechanism At this XXII Summit, Félix Plasencia was elected as new
economic field. people have knowledge of and that it can find solutions to executive secretary of the Alliance, while Bolivian diplomat
Founded on December 14, 2004 by leaders Fidel Castro peoples’ real problems. Sacha Llorenti was acknowledged for the role he played.
and Hugo Chávez, the regional integration mechanism
was raised from a structure that praised each member’s
potential to meet the needs of its people.
As a result, social programs that benefited millions of
people were created, such as the Milagro (Miracle), Barrio
Adentro and Manuela Espejo missions, in addition to
projects such as the ALBA Bank, the ALBA Games and a
network of cultural institutions that gave priority to the
protection of the peoples’ heritage.
In the light of natural disasters, or more recently, during
the pandemic of COVID-19, humanitarian corridors were
activated for the transfer of health professionals, medical
supplies and medications, while a few countries in the
world stockpiled vaccines or imposed embargos to divert
flights carrying masks and equipment.
The XXII ALBA-TCP Summit, held in Havana on December
14, highlighted those achievements, while vehemently
stating the need to repeat those successes in the
economic field through the promotion of a fair trade that
replaces the market’s logic with solidarity and sustainable
development.
Several Heads of State and delegations from the 11
The XXII ALBA-TCP highlighted the need to repeat its successes in the economic field. PHOTO: Estudios Revolución
member countries referred to potentials in the fields
President Díaz-Canel’s Visits Strengthen Ties with the Caribbean
By MandyFERNÁNDEZ Summit, on occasion of the 50th anniversary The President’s visit to the Caribbean resources formation, medical assistance
of diplomatic relations between Havana region concluded in Grenada, where and the use of biopharmaceutical
and several countries of the region. he had discussions with Grenadian products.
HAVANA.- Cuban President Miguel Díaz- Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell. Other topics included boosting three
Canel’s official talks with authorities of TOP-LEVEL TALKS In statements to The Havana Reporter, joint collaboration projects in the area of
Barbados, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines In Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, both leaders stated that cooperation in the mitigation of climate change effects and
and Grenada strengthen relations with the the first stop of the Cuban President fields of agriculture, health, infrastructure, reduction of disaster risks.
Caribbean region. tour led to talks with Governor-General education, environment and climate In his speech at the Summit, Díaz-Canel
Díaz-Canel’s official visits, which started Susan Dougan and Prime Minister Ralph change will increase. highlighted that the meeting went
on December 3, 2022, included his Gonsalves; he was also welcomed at the beyond formal relations and proved the
participation to the VIII CARICOM-Cuba national Parliament. A UNITED CARIBBEAN strong brotherhood links.
In all meetings, the President ratified Díaz-Canel headed the Cuban Condemnation of the blockade the United
Cuba’s will to strengthen solidarity and delegation to the VIII CARICOM-Cuba States has imposed on Cuba; support to
cooperation with that insular state, with Summit, which celebrated the 50th small insular states’ fair claim to receive
which historical bonds are shared, in anniversary of the start of diplomatic a just and preferential treatment, and
addition to future challenges. relations between Havana and four defense of the region as a peace zone,
The head of the Cuban State was also nations of the region, which then put were included in the final declaration of
welcomed by Barbados Prime Minister an end to the United States’ attempt to the top-level meeting.
Mia Amor Mottley and President Sandra isolate the Cuban Revolution from the CARICOM is composed of Antigua &
Mason, to whom he reaffirmed the will to world. Barbuda, Bahamas, Barbados, Belize,
continue strengthening political dialogue CARICOM, created in 1973, held its first Dominica, Grenada, Guyana, Haiti, Jamaica,
and cooperation. summit in Cuba in 2002, on occasion of the Montserrat, Saint Lucia, Saint Christopher
As part of the official talks, a memorandum celebration of the 30 years of diplomatic & Nevis, Saint Vincent & the Grenadines,
of understanding was signed between ties between Havana and those Caribbean Surinam and Trinidad & Tobago.
a Barbados exporting company and nations. At present, 1,698 collaborators of the
Saint Vincent and the Grenadines was the the Cuban Biotechnological and At the recent summit, held in Barbados, Cuban Public Health sector provide their
first stop of the Cuban President. PHOTO: Estudios Pharmaceutical Industries Entrepreneurial agreements were reached in relation to services in 13 CARICOM member nations
Revolución Group (BioCubaFarma). cooperation in the fields of health, human and a non-independent territory.
CULTURE
ECONOMY
CULTURE 9
Fiart returned with resilient and sustainable art
By LizBOBADILLA
HAVANA.- The Fiart 2022 International Crafts and Gifts
Fair returned to Cuba's cultural agenda after two years
of pandemic and for 10 days displayed a wide catalog of
textile, utilities, and decorative items, which endorsed the
value of recycling as a key piece for contemporary creation.
From December 10 to 20, the Cuban Fund for Cultural
Assets (FCBC) once again created this project, which
for more than two decades has positioned itself as an
exhibition and trade platform at the Pabexpo venue and
the Cultural Linea station, in Havana.
The motto Art, Utility and Craft became the guiding thread
of the event's agenda, which in its 24th year adopted
the festive character of the month of December and the
arrival of the 64th anniversary of the Revolution, to offer
not only artisan products, but also utilities, entertainment,
decorative and gifts.
Likewise, the event was dedicated to recycling in the
different craft expressions and to Italian culture, which
"has historically had an important presence in Cuban
society," said Arturo Valdés, director of the FCBC, while
highlighting the presence of proposals from Colombia,
Costa Rica, Ecuador, Spain, India, Mexico, Panama, Russia, For more than two decades Fiart has positioned itself as an exhibition and trade platform. PHOTO: José Tito Meriño
Peru and the Caribbean island, in nearly 300 stands.
The meeting calendar included fashion catwalks where the presence of recycling as a practice for years in the (Chuchi), the Fresco project, among others, explained
designers presented their original and innovative productive dynamics of creators, as an aesthetic choice Sánchez.
collections in a peculiar fusion of tradition and modernity, and alternative to the lack of raw materials. “Our fashion catwalks this year intend to go back to the
while the meeting served as an opportunity to reflect on "Our artists carry out a continuous recycling exercise origin, we have a lot of quality in the exhibitions and they are
the role of culture in social, economic and environmental in favor of their creation, all productions they regularly not going to do fantasy parades but they are going to show
transformation, through the presentation of local and present are the result of recovery acts", stated Sánchez, as clothes that Cubans can wear in everyday life” she pointed
foreign artists. he explained that "in the current atypical circumstances out. Sánchez said that the initiative is consistent with the
To fulfill this purpose of exchanging knowledge, an they turned this option into a necessary practice ”. In intentions of the fair's organizing institution to become
academic program was developed, which under the title order to promote the most outstanding initiatives and "an aesthetic compass for the country", with innovative
Culture, creativity and innovation, agents for sustainable items in the catalogue, the fair included in its agenda a garments appropriate to the island's climate conditions.
development, allowed for a dialogue around recycling varied cultural program, in which expositions, auctions, Another of the novelties of the event was the articulation
and the intention to standardize -somehow- the best exhibitions, business rounds, concerts, among other of a complete sample of Telarte, an initiative of the FCBC,
experiences as a sign of resilience. artistic, commercial and educational actions stood out. which "a few years ago had stopped making pieces and
According to the deputy director of the FCBC, Marta The meeting was a showcase for the pieces made by designs were recovered" adding the inauguration of the
Ivis Sánchez, the choice of this theme is consistent with prominent creators such as Ángel Ferrer, Jesús Frías Market Place electronic commerce platform.
Complex realities at
photography exhibition
By THREDITORIAL STAFF
HAVANA.- The Atlas exhibition, piece between the artist and
by Cuba´s photographer Alfredo dancers from the Mal Paso group.
Sarabia, deals with problems that Alfredo Sarabia (Havana,1986),
are currently occurring in the is a renowned photographer
world such as conflicts, migrations graduated from the University of
and economic crisis, which cause Fine Arts, in 2012, and the Atlas
a degree of strangulation on exhibition will be open to the
humanity. public throughout January at the
The exhibition´s organizers Servando Cabrera Gallery, located
stated that many of the ups and at the city´s central zone of Vedado.
downs of contemporary times The artist usually orders the speech
also have an impact on the by dual associations and, precisely
Cuban island and; consequently, by the strength of this principle, his
on the personal experience and photographs are never manipulated.
subjectivity of Sarabia, who Experts state that in the semantic
captures reality and human shot the piece questions fields of
spirituality with his lens. different nature; that is of historic,
The exhibition was inaugurated religious, philosophic, political or
last December with a performance ethical character.
10 CUBA
ECONOMY
Internet Governance: Prometheus Statue in Havana
Paving the Way Text and Photo by BenjamínMICERINOS
HAVANA.- Equestrian statues are a passion many people have and that passion is also
seen in the Cuban capital, where there statues that are even unknown to people, such
as the one called The torchbearers.
Located on the corner of the Ayesterán and 20 de Mayo streets, in a Havana park, the
aforementioned statue is one of the most peculiar.
This sculpture grouping, made by U.S. artist Anna Vaughn Hyatt Huntington (1876-
1973), portrays the myth of Prometheus, who one day went to Mount Olympus to
steal the fire Zeus had taken away from men.
Prometheus was persecuted, not without giving it first to a younger and stronger
man, according to the work in question.
The artistic grouping, a tribute to the preservation of culture, represents the moment
in which a young man mounted on a horse stops walking to pick up the torch of
civilization from an exhausted athlete.
One of the monument’s features lies on its technical quality, which surprises viewers
for the anatomy of humans and the very horse.
Faces show a level of detail in their gestures, verging upon the literal meaning of
feelings such as agony, in the case of the dying man and hope, in the case of the
horseman.
Anna Vaughn Hyatt’s original monument, made in aluminum and also known as El
relevo (The relay), is located in the Ramón and Cajal Square, in the Madrid University
City, in front of the Faculty of Medicine of the Universidad Complutense.
The bronze replica erected in Havana, which is over three meters high and weighs
1,500 kilograms, approximately, was donated to the Cuban people in 1956 by Archer
Milton Huntington, Anna’s husband.
Internet governance is related to the population’s digital literacy, the flow of information and the
Other bronze replicas are erected at the University of Valence, Spain and other two
technological sovereignty Cuba Foster.
university centers in the United States.
Anna’s artistic legacy reached Cuba not only through The torchbearers, as in 1958,
By Joel MichelVARONA governance among the population, even her husband also donated a replica of the statue Diana of the Chase, which portrays
though this is a highly important topic. the moment in which Diana is about to shoot an arrow. This piece is erected at the
gardens of the Cuban Women Federation’s headquarters, in Havana.
HAVANA.- Internet governance is a priority DIGITAL ISSUES AND TECHNOLOGICAL However, what sealed this artist’s imprint in the history of Cuba was the fact that at
topic in Cuba in its intention of fostering SOVEREIGNTY the age of 82, she made the famous statue of José Martí that is erected at the New
a sustainable human development, There are technical issues on Internet York Central Park since 1965, whose replica is located in Havana since 2017, at the 13
building inclusive knowledge societies and governance that are even related to de Marzo park.
improving the free flow of information and domain name assignment, web hosting
ideas. and the sovereignty of the software we
The term, unknown to some, includes use in the country; for that reason, there
principles, norms, rules, decision- are different organizations involved in this
making processes and activities that, topic, the expert commented.
implemented and applied by governments It is a common topic for many institutions,
in coordination with the private sector, which is not often dealt with in Cuba, although
civil society and the technical community, it should be, as it is part of the information
define the evolution and use of the network process the island conducts, Batista said.
of networks. It has a lot to do with Internet governance,
Havana’s Computer Palace recently hosted because it is closely related to the
the II Internet Governance Forum, a three- population’s digital literacy, the flow
day meeting sponsored by the Computer of information and the technological
Specialist Union and the Cuban Association sovereignty Cuba fosters.
of the United Nations. An example of this are the antiviruses,
Some of the topics under discussion software and operating systems that are
included strategies for Internet use nationally produced, he stressed.
development in Cuba for the benefit of the The Industrial Computer Sciences,
population, in addition to the promotion of Communications and Electronics Company
such tool’s responsible use. is responsible for the technological field,
The meeting of experts of different sectors while the University of Computer Sciences
was aimed at boosting local development (UCI) is responsible for software; that’s the
and promoting innovation, with the reason why Cuban phones have a national
incorporation of the communities. operating system called Nova.
Participants made emphasis on the creation Many Internet governance topics were new
of contents that favor citizens’ wellbeing to us and some are not even within our
and the spread of the Cuban reality, in reach, because domain name assignment
addition to fostering respect among people is a U.S. asset, except the .cu, he mentioned.
in relation to the use of such tool. There is a lot to do in this field; we lack
In statements to The Havana Reporter, knowledge and taking into account the
Cuban International Journalism Institute spread of Internet in Cuba, the population
professor Sabdier Batista explained that should know more about this topic, Batista This sculpture grouping, made by U.S. artist Anna Vaughn Hyatt Huntington (1876-1973),
there is still lack of knowledge on Internet added. portrays the myth of Prometheus.PHOTO FEATURE 11
Guamá’s Natural Charm
By RobertoCAMPOS A crocodile farm, a motorboat journey,
cabins on pontoons, wooden paths to
allow access through swampy areas and
HAVANA.- Located in an isolated and the abovementioned sculptures, give this
former poor region of Cuba, the Guamá site a perfect touch.
recreational complex is an emblematic Boca de Guamá is the name of the jetty
tourist center located in Zapata Swamp, in in which visitors and guests get on a boat
Matanzas province. for a trip through the canals and lake that
The complex’s most interesting sites take them to the Taíno Village. Restaurant
include the Taíno Village, a place that services are also offered there.
recreates the settlement of the indigenous One of the sites visitors prefer, though, is
population that lived in Cuba when the the crocodile farm, a well-preserved and
Spanish arrived in the island and that is developing area.
composed of 26 sculptures made by artist When tourists get to this place, they are
Rita Longa (1912-2000), who portrayed able to enjoy three phases: the first, to
the indigenous hunting, fishing and doing see and interact with small animals and
other activities. learn about different species; the second,
Created more than 50 years ago following a social-historical learning about the
an idea of leader of the Cuban Revolution charcoal workers who lived in the area, and
Fidel Castro (1926-2016) and heroine the third, a trip to the area where crocodiles
Celia Sánchez (1920-1980), the complex’s are kept.
curious feature is that visitors can only Some of the species visitors can see there
access the complex’s lodging (46 cabins) include the Cuban Rombifer, endemic
through a canal, as the said cabins are in the swamp, in addition to animals of
located on pontoons. different ages, from newborns to 40-year-
Local guides have the responsibility of old species.
checking everyday access to those places The complex is undergoing a comprehensive
that, according to experts, are located investment and renovation process that
in the Caribbean’s largest wetland area: includes its bridges, cabins, containment
Zapata Swamp. walls, paths and other facilities.
PHOTOS: Tito Meriño and ACN12 LATIN AMERICA
Ecuador-USA: Cooperation or Submission
By AdrianaVALDÉS except Cuba, on which the U.S. legislative environment, safety, cybersecurity, justice, and political maneuvering, “but it is
body does have provisions to codify the police and human rights. unacceptable that an ambassador interferes
the blockade and prevent the country’s However, the Ecuadoran legislators’ in Ecuador’s internal affairs.”
QUITO.- The recently approved Strategic development. opinion does not count, because it is a I have been the victim of corruption and
Partnership Act with Ecuador in the U.S. On June 16, 2022, the Ecuadoran National unilateral law adopted by the U.S. Congress, political maneuvering on the part of the
Congress causes divided opinions in the Assembly rejected what was then a bill Meriguet stressed. Ecuadoran justice, but even so, I will not accept
South American country, and although approved by the House Foreign Affairs Another element that drew attention that the representative of a foreign country
for the government it is an opportunity Committee on the initiative of Senators was the reaction of the Executive to U.S. tells us what to do, said the former President.
to expand cooperation, for others it is Bob Menendez, Jim Risch and Marco Rubio. ambassador Michael Fitzpatrick’s recent In recent months, relations between Quito
submission and interference. At that time, assembly member Ricardo statement, who publicly criticized the and Washington strengthened; a sign of that
Ecuadoran Foreign Affairs Minister Juan Ulcuango affirmed that, in spite of the Andean nation’s judicial system. are the constant visits to this capital of senior
Carlos Holguín welcomed the said provision intention of strengthening bilateral Former Ecuadoran President Rafael Correa White House officials, including Christopher
which, in his opinion, will strengthen relations, it was an interference act in admitted in Twitter that the country's justice J. Dodd, Joe Biden’s special adviser for the
bilateral relations and is a sign of confidence fields such as trade, investment, customs, is controled by drug traffickers, corruption Americas, who was welcomed by president
in his country. Lasso.
However, to former Ecuadoran Deputy Secretary of the U.S. National Security
Foreign Affairs Minister, Fernando Yépez, it Department Alejandro Mayorkas previously
is a shameful and servile submission on the had talks to the head of the Ecuadoran Executive
part of the Guillermo Lasso government to and senior members of his cabinet to deal with
Washington’s unlimited interests and visions. topics such as security, amidst the upsurge in
Diplomat and political analyst Juan Meriguet, violence in the South American nation.
who shared the abovementioned opinion, In the last two months, other officials also
told The Havana Reporter that such an visited Quito, including U.S. Senators; head
“ignominious and neocolonial” Act does not of the U.S. Southern Command, Gen Laura
include the opinion of the Ecuadoran people, Richardson, and Under Secretary of State for
as it is not an agreement between both nations. Political Affairs, Victoria Nuland.
Meriguet added that its approval is According to analysts, Ecuador is today
Christopher J. Dodd, Joe Biden’s special adviser for the Americas,
significant, because the United States does a key enclave for the U.S. government,
was welcomed by president Lasso. PHOTO: Internet
not have a similar act with other nations – considering the region’s political changes.You can also read
