Cuban Communist Party - to Hold a Momentous Congress Cuba-U.S.A - Health & Science - Prensa Latina
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YEAR XI
NO 4
APR 5, 2021
HAVANA,
CUBA
ISSN 2224-5707
Price: 1.00 USD / 1.20 CAN
Cuban Communist Party Cuba-U.S.A
to Hold a Momentous Congress World Rallies to End the
Blockade
P. 4
Health & Science
Trials of Hope in
Eastern Cuba
P. 5
Playa Girón
The Great U.S.
Defeat in the Americas
P. 3 P.16
2 TOURISM
Cuba’s Spiritual Landmarks According to that data, it may be deduced that the event
linked to the Virgin’s discovery happened in 1606.
Regardless, most of the documents and studies agree that
the rowers were named Juan and Rodrigo de Hoyos, and
Text and photos RobertoCAMPOS and the other in the air, as if blessing his surroundings. With Juan Moreno was the name of the enslaved child. The
this work, the sculptor showed her ideal of male beauty. three of them saw a big shape in the middle of the bay and
About 20 meters tall above its 3-meter base and with a when they approached, they discovered the image of the
HAVANA.- Located on the top of a hill at the entrance of weight of 320 tons, the work is composed of 67 pieces. Virgin on a board with a golden cross in her right hand and
the port, Havana’s Christ statue offers an ideal place to Taking into consideration the hilly area on which it is Baby Jesus in her left.
photograph the cityscape over the bay. located, the sculpture is 51 meters above sea level. On August 12, 1898, and the end of the war against
The historical monument was built at the entrance of the Sculpted in Rome, Havana’s Christ statue was blessed by Spain, Cuban General Calixto García asked its general
former Carenas Port, discovered in 1508-1509 by Spanish Pope Pius XII. During its assembly, Madera was assisted by staff to hold mass and a Te Deum on thanksgiving at El
explorer Sebastián de Ocampo. 20 marble masons and each piece was tied to the central Cobre.
Made of Carrara marble, this huge sculpture stands out structure with steel turnbuckles. Another important fact is that in 1915, war veterans asked
among the gray stones of the ancient fortresses of Tres Despite its legends and myths, the site is truly a sacred Pope Benedict XV to proclaim the virgin Cuba’s Patron
Reyes del Morro, San Salvador de la Punta, la Real Fuerza place. However, its wonderful view is its greatest value, as Saint. The opening of the current Sanctuary took place on
and San Carlos de la Cabaña, bastions for the defense of it offers a panoramic sight of an ancient but modern city. September 8, 1927 and on December 30, 1977, Pope Paul
Havana against corsairs and pirates. VI sent African Cardinal Bernardín Gantin to proclaim the
The Christ statue was unveiled on December 25, 1958, seven A CUBAN PLACE OF WORSHIP chapel as “Basilica Minor.”
days before the triumph of the Cuban Revolution. It was built in The Virgin’s altar was built of marble and faces the
Italy by Cuban sculptor Jilma Madera, who passed away in 2000. SANTIAGO DE CUBA.- In Cuba’s eastern region, there is a Sanctuary’s chapel, the entrance of which is through the
The sculpture depicts the figure of Jesus Christ standing magical place that few travelers skip. It’s the perfect place to back, located on the “Miracles Chapel,” where parishioners
tall and watching over the city, with one hand on the chest make a spiritual pitstop. make their offerings.
The arrival of visitors to the El Cobre Church, 26 kilometers
from Santiago de Cuba city, was a daily routine before the
spread of COVID-19; regardless of the mysticism of the site,
which is surrounded by mountains and myths of sailors,
stormy seas, encounters and disagreements.
The place is home to this red-dome church with light walls
where the image of Cuba’s Patron Saint, Virgen de la Caridad
de El Cobre, is treasured.
According to a leaflet distributed by church attendants,
two aboriginal men and an enslaved child found the image
of the Virgin in the northeastern Bay of Nipe in 1608, with
an inscription that identifies it as such.
Some historians, however, have their own versions of the
story and question the exact date of the discovery. They
claim that the descriptions of elderly Juan Moreno – one
of the three protagonists – are kept in the Indies Archive
of Sevilla, Spain (since 1687) and at the time, he was 10
The Christ statue was built by Cuban sculptor Jilma Madera. El Cobre Church, a perfect place to make a spiritual pitstop.
years old.
25 CUP,
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SOCIETY HEALTH & SCIENCE POLITICS CULTURE
.
ENTERTAINMENT PHOTO FEATURE ECONOMY
SPORTS AND MORE .
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Chief Editor: Ilsa Rodríguez Santana Assistant Staff: Yaimara Portuondo Calle E, esq. 19 No. 454, Vedado, La Habana-4, Cuba
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CUBA 3
Cuban Communist Party to
Hold a Momentous Congress
By OrlandoORAMAS The meeting is aimed at endowing the
Party’s leadership with a systemic work
design in order to reach higher results in the
HAVANA.- Important issues of Cuban 2021-2026 period.
political, economic and social life will be With that in mind, the strategic objectives
addressed at the 8th Congress of the Cuban include ratifying the governing role that
Communist Party (PCC), to be held from the party has, from the grassroots level, in
April 16 to 19, at a time in which the nation the management of Top Officials’ Policy, as
faces uncharted territory. well as the responsibility leaders have in its
The congressional session will take place implementation.
amidst the tightening of the blockade The session hopes to articulate a The first secretary of the PCC, Raúl Castro Ruz, and President Miguel Díaz-Canel during the VII
Congress held in 2016. PHOTO: Prensa Latina.
imposed by the United States for over 60 single system for the preparation and
years, the impact of which has intensified reappointment of leaders, based on a policy
due to the consequences of the world designed to strengthen its social image.
economic crisis resulting from the COVID-19 Political and ideological work will be a
pandemic. priority for the PCC, “because if something
The session will provide an important space must characterize these people, it is their
for analysis, leading into the construction of fidelity to the Revolution and a guarantee of
Cuban socialism in the present moment and its continuity,” Granma stated.
predicting future conditions. Conversations In that sense, work relations will be taken
will center around the development of into consideration in the formation of future
the national economy, while continuing political leaders.
to fight for peace, unity and strength of A gradual renewal of leaders demands
character, the Granma daily (the PCC official updating parameters related to the period
newspaper) indicated. and ages approved for their positions, in
The meeting will also be held at a time in order to avoid standstills, the document
which subversive plans financed by U.S. stresses.
governmental agencies and executed by The newspaper also highlights that the
Delegates analyze documents. PHOTO: Granma.
paid agents have been happening again. updating process demands designing
Special attention will be given to economic marketing for transitioning political,
topics, especially those related to exports, administrative and governmental structures,
substitution of imports, production of bearing in mind professional profile and
food, productive, mutually beneficial individual characteristics.
relationships, investments, monetary Keeping with the present time, the
reform and sustainable resources. preparation of leaders will include the
The congress will likewise draft projections effective use of information technology and
to strengthen ties with non-state workers, a social communication, in addition to the
sector that continues to increase along with “use of innovative and scientific methods
other forms of production. in the management and defense of the
The meeting will hold importance for Revolution,” the newspaper adds.
the country’s destiny and will represent The PCC document emphasizes that leaders
a historical moment in the generational must better their ties with the public, while
change in leadership in the revolutionary having the capacity to mobilize, defend
process, defining and implementing the values, be open to discourse and be resolute.
“prosperous and sustainable” Cuban To conclude, it stresses that fight against
socialist model. corruption and other negative behaviors
Other priorities of the 8th Congress of the will continue to be a priority, as the Cuban
PCC will include adopting a strategy linked Communist Party considers these to be
to better leadership in policy management. national security issues.
The VIII Congress of the PCC will meet from April 16 to 19 .
4 CUBA-U.S.A
World Rallies to End the Blockade
By IbisFRADE
HAVANA.- Around the world, Cuban people and those who
support the island joined an international protest last March
to demand the end of the blockade imposed by the United
States.
The streets of Canada, the United States, Russia, and France
witnessed this initiative, held on March 27 and 28 in more
than 20 countries.
The coordinator of the Europe for Cuba channel, José
Antonio Toledo, explained that in a context marked by
COVID-19, different activities addressed the economic,
commercial and financial blockade imposed by Washington
against Cuba.
Those activities included caravans of vehicles and bicycles,
marches and outdoor demonstrations.
Social media also played an important role, because they
allowed spreading this and other similar actions across the
internet, Toledo said.
In his opinion, international efforts protesting the blockade
on Cuba is just a starting point, as other global initiatives
will be added to this battle against an aggressive policy that
became stronger during the Trump administration (2017-
2021).
In the meantime, calls continue to grow on digital platforms
PHOTO: Prensa Latina.
urging U.S. President Joe Biden to lift the economic,
commercial and financial blockade on Cuba.
In this sense, a new digital platform now unites those who, The majority of the international community and the United
both inside and outside the United States, call for the end of Nations also call for the end of that siege.
this mechanism and urge President Biden to put an end to Anyone can access this digital space both in English
this siege. (noembargocuba.com) and Spanish (nobloqueocuba.
Sponsored by the American Coalition against the Embargo, com).
the platform– which is not attached to any organization or The term ‘embargo’ is used on the platform because that’s
individual– is a space that brings together all that share a the word the people are familiar with in the United States
similar stance on the blockade, regardless of their political when referring to the U.S. blockade.
and ideological differences. The site includes detailed information about the damages
According to the information provided by that website, the caused by the U.S. blockade, in addition to a gallery with
blockade only benefits a small group of Cuban exiles, who thousands of photos of people who, from different parts of
annually receive economic assistance from the government the world – such as Cuba, the United States, Canada, Mexico
of the United States to allegedly promote the opposition. and Spain – urge for the siege to be lifted.
They have totally failed in that task for over 60 years and the There are also links to Facebook groups that support the
only thing they do is cause damage, increasing the suffering end of the blockade and videos of different demonstrations
of their own people. in several cities of the world.
Most Cubans on the island and abroad, including Cuban- This international campaign joins the efforts of the Bridge
American and U.S. citizens, are in favor of lifting the blockade, of Love project, Caravans for the Cuban family and other
Solidarity efforts in the United States. PHOTO: Telesur.
the platform says. endeavors to put an end to the U.S. blockade.
Allies of the Cuban cause in Canadá . PHOTO: Internet. Cubans in South Africa support the end of the U.S. blockade. PHOTO: Prensa Latina.
HEALTH & SCIENCE 5
Trials of Hope Developed by the Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology
Center (CIGB), Abdala, a name that refers to a dramatic
poem by Cuba’s National Hero José Martí is, leading the
results of the Cuban science in fighting the pandemic,
alongside the Soberana 02 vaccine.
The antigen-based vaccine candidate has come to this
By MartaCABRALES A total of 48,000 volunteers will participate in the trials, decisive moment with very promising results. Its good
following its first two phases last December at Santiago indicators prove it to be effective, with the immune
de Cuba’s General Saturnino Lora Hospital. Those phases response at least four times higher than before vaccination,
SANTIAGO DE CUBA.- Phase III of the Abdala vaccine brought satisfactory results, especially in terms of safety while antibodies neutralize the virus and prevent cells
candidate clinical trials in April will provide residents from the and immunogenicity. from being affected.
eastern Cuban territories of Santiago de Cuba, Guantanamo The high rates of SARS-COV2 in Guantánamo and Granma The chief researcher of the trial in Santiago de Cuba, Dr.
and Bayamo with a defensive barrier against COVID-19, as made it necessary to extend the trials to those provinces María del Carmen Ricardo, stressed its broad scope in the
part of the Cuban endeavor to fight the pandemic. as well as Havana. community with 13 vaccination sites, where dozens of
doctors, nurses and health technicians perform specific
tasks.
Excited, committed and pleased with their important
roles, local university and medical students received the
first shot at the start of phase III. The other two shots
will be administered every 14 days over a month-long
period.
The role of these youth has also extended to the sacrifices
they’ve made performing daily inquiries and working at
isolation centers. They’ve proved to be national warriors
reminiscent of Marti’s character, as they represent life and
hope in this time of crisis.
On March 27 was approved the execution of an
intervention trial with the vaccine candidate Abdala
in the provinces of Granma, Santiago de Cuba and
Guantánamo. The trial began on 29, with the inclusion
of 120 thousand volunteers belonging to the risk
group of health workers, the biopharmaceutical
sector and other segments defined by the Ministry of
PHOTO: Internet
Public Health.
COMPLEX EPIDEMIOLOGICAL recovered from the disease and
SITUATION have a certain number of antibodies
against the virus.
Last March, Cuba underwent a Described as a success in the trials, the
complex epidemiological situation injectable vaccine, named Soberana
as a result of COVID-19, with figures Plus, has a new composition and
that went from 700 to 1 000 positive is considered Cuba’s fifth vaccine
daily cases, as predicted by health candidate, in addition to Soberana
specialists and authorities. 01 and 02, Abdala and Mambisa
The fresh outbreak affecting the – the two later, from the Genetic
country since the end of 2020 is Engineering and Biotechnology
rattling the island. March, the month Center (CIGB).
that marks one year since the spread Determined to make progress in the
of the pandemic, also brought a sign trial and prove the efficacy of the
of hope after the announcement formulas, IFV added more subjects
of the start of Phase III clinical to the trials after receiving the
trials of two anti-COVID-19 vaccine approval of regulatory authorities
candidates, under development at to conduct an intervention study.
several scientific institutions. Thus, the trials have involved
During the first days of March, the over 150,000 additional subjects,
Finlay Institute of Vaccines (IFV) including research center and
announced the start of that phase of biopharmaceutical industry staff.
trials for its most advanced candidate, The objective of this study is
Soberana 02, which involved 44,010 to evaluate the effects of the
volunteers from eight municipalities anti-SARS-CoV-2 vaccination on
of the Cuban capital, including population cohorts with high risk
subjects of both sexes between the of infection, disease and spread
ages of 19 and 80. On March 31, the of the COVID-19 epidemic, as well
first stage of phase III of the sovereign as to prove the direct and indirect
O2 vaccine candidate concluded. effects on the prevention of the
IFV scientists also announced the COVID-19 symptomatic disease.
development of another vaccine As a result, about 200,000 people
candidate to protect against from the capital city participated in
COVID-19 based on Soberana the phase III trials of the two vaccine
01A, designed for those who have candidates developed by IFV.
PHOTO: Internet
6 CULTURE
Documentary on
Caregivers
By DanayGALLETTI disabled or vulnerable people, or the elderly that live alone,
known as “Misión Vida” (Mission Life), which is promoted in
Vedado, Havana.
HAVANA.-“Ellas… sus cuidados y cuidadoras” (Them…Their Vila warned that the pandemic has worsened all forms of
Care and Caregivers) is the title of the new documentary violence, admitting that today, “home is the most dangerous
produced by Proyecto Palomas, which brings to light the place for us women.”
uncertainties, emptiness and lack of recognition, both in Hence, this documentary represents a pressing and
public and private spaces, of its leading characters, who necessary contribution to analyze the topic responsibly
also suffer the negative consequences of the COVID-19 and raise public awareness of the current role of female
pandemic. caregivers.
Proyecto Palomas, an audiovisual production company in The testimonies were selected based on the concept of
Cuba, develops sociocultural and humanist initiatives that intersectionality, a term coined in 1989 by U.S. activist and Lizette Vila directed this new documentary of great social
promote peace, diversity and changes in lifestyle. academician Kimberlé Williams Crenshaw. Hence, the social importance. PHOTO: Internet.
Domestic violence, alcoholism, disabilities and sexually groups that the participants associate to are identified: age,
transmitted diseases are some of the topics portrayed in gender identity, skin color, disabilities and birthplace. In conjunction with advertising the new documentary on
the audiovisual materials of this organization, which has "By means of human-interest journalism, Palomas aims to its Facebook page, Proyecto Palomas is also presenting the
been producing films for 19 years. raise people’s emotional awareness and accompany the exhibition, “La cultura del cuidado…camino de paz” (The
“By means of denunciation and reparation, the new national project as much as we can. It also helps answers Culture of Caregiving… The Road to Peace), featuring 20
documentary turns the spotlight on women, the non- questions such as: What will happen in those violent and photographers, announced Humberto Mayol, director of
completion of their life projects, amid postponed dreams, unequal spaces after the pandemic? What will we do in that photography.
health deterioration and endless calls for them to be taken transitional period in a world more affected by its injustices?” “The interviews of the audiovisual materials are
into consideration,” said filmmaker Lizette Vila, who is the she questioned. accompanied by images, both moving and still. The idea is
project’s director. Conceived as a feminist project as “a cry for life for women, to give the sensation of sensitivity, emotion and constant
The audiovisual is also inspired by friendly actions such men and children,” the initiative advocates that peace does search for visual messages that connect images with social
as calls for people to volunteer looking after and assisting not need doves but rather, people of good will. and human topics,” he stressed.
Japanese Migration, Art and Cuisine
By MarleneSAAVEDRA JAPANESE VISUAL
PATTERNS AND THEMES
HAVANA.- Japanese migrant workers came Cuban artist Duchy Man Valderá, who resides
to Cuba during the sugarcane economic in Belgium, became familiar with Japanese
boom during World War I. A close link culture as a child. She remembers that there
through the arts still exists today between were many publications, magazines, posters
the two archipelagos. and books about Japan in her house.
History has it that Japanese immigrants She was fascinated by the costumes and
formed the first agricultural cooperatives makeup of the Kabuki Theater, the millenary
and introduced the use of chemical art of singing and dancing.
fertilizers. Different names stand out “My dad was an amateur artist and loved PHOTOS: Prensa Latina
today, like gardener Kenji Takeuchi, who to draw samurais using ukiyo-e, a type of
planted over 700 species of flowers at engraving commonly used from the 17th with an amazing capacity to endure (in and then came to Cuba to take an intensive
the Soroa Orchid Garden in Pinar del Río to the 20th centuries. I think Japan’s culture time), she told The Havana Reporter. course on contemporary Cuban dance.
Province. is one of the strongest and most universal, The artist also talked about the current “I was mesmerized by the sound of drums
phenomenon in Cuba generated by Manga and traveled to Cuba several times to
or comic books which, according to her, take folkloric dance lessons. I belong to a
covers a variety of genres and themes – highly organized, traditional and millenary
adventures, horror, costume and crime. culture, almost incompatible with Cuban
In her drawings, she recreates the art culture, and that was what actually
of the Heian period (794-1185) in a rich captivated me,” she described.
and colorful representation of costumes; Fong has been living in Cuba since 2000. At
while the ukiyo-e style is manifested in first, she came to study Folkloric Art at the
'clear lines,' the use of color and common Higher Arts Institute, but then she joined
themes. On the other hand, the use of flat several professional bands like Cuba’s
gold backgrounds giving the impression of National Folkloric Band and Obini Bata
abstract depth alludes to the Rinpa School. Female Band.
“Havana, My Dream City” In addition to family and friends, what she
This is the title of this epigraph project by misses the most from Japan is the food;
Japanese dancer, Singer and percussionist although she has added typical Cuban
Yuko Fong. First attracted to Latin dishes to her diet, such as beans and
idiosyncrasy, she studied Spanish in Japan tostones (fried plantains).
SPOTLIGHT 7
Joe Biden’s Cuba Policy Still to be Defined
By RobertoGARCÍA the clamor of large sectors of the U.S.
society in general.
A total of 80 democratic members of the
HAVANA.- Global calls urging the United House of Representatives recently signed a
States to lift the economic, commercial and letter urging Biden to remove Trump’s “cruel”
financial blockade against Cuba for over 60 sanctions against Cuba, and to resume the
years have increased in recent weeks, while rapprochement policies encouraged by
U.S. President Joe Biden remains inactive in Barack Obama.
regards to the Caribbean island. However, Bob Menéndez, Chairman of the
International governments, human rights Senate’s Foreign Relations Committee, poses
institutions, international organizations an obstacle to that possibility. He, together
and a large number of social sectors in with other anti-Cuba figures, insist on saying
solidarity with Cuba demand the President that previous conditions must be enforced
Biden to do everything within his power to before any possible bilateral negotiations,
eliminate the U.S. sanctions. something that Cuba’s authorities reject.
One of the most recent examples of the PHOTO: Prensa Latina Long before Biden took office on January
rejection of the anti-Cuban siege was the 20, 2021, U.S. representatives of religious
anti-blockade caravan demonstrations campaign: to change the anti-Cuba are committed to making human rights a and political circles, businessmen, scientists
held in more than 60 cities around the measures adopted by his predecessor core pillar of our U.S. foreign policy.” and activists asked the President to take
world under the slogan “Bridges of Love,” Donald Trump (2017-2021). Various U.S. newspapers have broadcast actions to lift the unilateral sanctions
in solidarity with Cuba. Some of Biden’s assessors reiterated the similar reports saying it is the democrat against the island.
On several occasions, Cuban authorities have president’s wish to do so and pointed government’s intentions to resume However, many of them feel frustrated
denounced that those coercive measures are out that Cuba-related actions would aim services at the U.S. embassy in Havana, because President Biden has not yet defined
the main obstacle in national development to bring back some of the regulations normalize money sending and reactivate his administration’s Cuba policy.
and a violation of human rights. implemented by the Barack Obama flights to the interior of the island, among Meanwhile, the unilateral coercive measures
It is in this context that most U.S. citizens administration (2009-2017). first measures. and controversial actions adopted by Trump
and large sectors of international public In this regard, White House Press Secretary Amid this complex context, many U.S. continue to harm Cuban people, more than
opinion hope that President Biden keeps Jen Psaki said, “changing Cuba Policy is not politicians say that anti-Cuba sanctions ever as the country wages a hard battle
the promise made during his electoral among Biden’s priorities right now but we must be eliminated, in accordance with against the pandemic.
8 HEALTH
ECONOMY
ARTS & SCIENCE
& ENTERTAINMENT
Artex: Where Also notable are the links this entity has with international
companies of the field through D’Arte agency, the
“exporter” par excellence of the local talent.
Identity Meets Art
It’s almost impossible to think about Cuban culture
without mentioning Artex, a company that takes typical
Cuban cultural products to audiences around the world.
By YanisbelPEÑA y su Charangón, David Blanco, Pupy y los que Son Son,
Bamboleo, José Luis Cortés and NG La Banda.
The commitment is higher considering the role played by
HAVANA.- Artex S.A. is not only Cuba’s leading company its record company, BisMusic, one of the country’s best,
for the commercialization of cultural products and with international prestige.
services, but also its main advertising agent on the island It is worth noting that this was the first Cuban record
and abroad, thanks to the systematic work in different company to win a Latin Grammy Award with its album La
fields throughout its 30 years of existence. rumba soy yo, which opened the path to success for other
The noticeable presence in artistic and literary creation has Cuban groups in the following years.
made this company one of the most important in Cuba. Another strength of this entity is Comercial Lauros,
Founded in 1989, the institution has been occupying a branch that is appreciated for the items it
spaces and assuming responsibility for making Cuban art commercializes, such as handicrafts, souvenirs, and
known in times when high quality is needed to be able to musical instruments.
compete on the market. An example of these is Arte en Casa, a popular project
Little by little, the specialized company got ever stronger addressed to meeting the demands of utilitarian and
and became more confident in its cultural products, from decorative home products, with the added value of
their conception to their consumption. showcasing Cuba’s most famous works in the visual arts.
In music, for instance, it serves as the label of internationally Artex also stands out in the book market through the
renowned artists, having established agencies and Ediciones Cubanas publishing company, an entity that
mechanisms to produce, promote and commercialize annually publishes dozens of titles by contemporary
musical products. authors, in addition to reprints of the Cuban literary
The list of composers and singers that work with Artex’s classics.
Clave Cubana and Musicalia agencies include the bands Similarly, its presence is extensive through a network
Los Van Van, Charanga Habanera, Manolito Simonet y su of cultural centers, in addition to a programming that
Trabuco, Paulo FG, Adalberto Álvarez y su Son, Elito Revé includes top Cuban musicians. Arte en Casa, a popular project.
BisMusic, one of the country’s best, with international prestige.
ECONOMY
ECONOMY
CULTURE 9
Soluciones Espiral Benefits Society
By IvetteFERNÁNDEZ the programs at the different levels of
teaching,” Bermejo added.
He stressed that the fact that robotics is
HAVANA.- Soluciones Espiral is a group not an end but a means for children to
managed by self-employed workers with acquire certain skills from the cognitive
a vision of conceiving projects in the point of view has always been taken into
field of computer sciences, electronics, consideration.
telecommunications and automation. With that in mind, they have already
In statements to The Havana Reporter, BSc designed two prototypes for pre-school
in Computer Sciences Abel Bermejo – one and primary education. In the case of the
of the group’s members – stressed that one secondary level and at Cinesoft’s request,
of their main motivations is the potential to they foresee the introduction of domotics.
substitute imports in those fields. Another important line of work for
He noted that their contribution would not Soluciones Espiral is the automation
rely on foreign raw materials and provide of agricultural processes. They have
fundamental technological know-how been collaborating with the Ministry
and technical advice, which generate The group deals with integrated technological solutions. of Agriculture’s Information Sciences
considerable expenditures. and Communication Company with the
“We create prototypes for industrial state sector materialized following the we’ve develop those devices in Cuba objective of creating a smart dairy farm
development,” he said. need to replace defective panels of ice with a 60 percent reduction in costs, he based on the automation of five processes
Bermejo added that their group deals with machines in different tourist facilities, in concluded. on those sites, Barrientos noted.
integrated technological solutions that go direct collaboration with the Technotur This project is related to cattle’s electronic
from automation and transmission, and if Company, Barrientos affirmed. WIDENING HORIZONS identification, their location in real time,
needed, computerization for digital control According to the specialist, they have Soluciones Espiral covers different automation of the milking process,
on a dashboard or mobile device. provided 50 of those panels so far, the fields, from didactic projects to livestock distribution and weighing of food, and
The group, which includes specialists such cost of which in the international market production. control of veterinary parameters, which will
as Ariel Hernández and Abel Barrientos, is somewhere around 500 euros. He One of the attractive plans they are involved allow measuring each animal’s productive
has a team of a dozen members, with added that they make them from new and in is related to teaching robotics classes in performance and define how to increase it,
additional contractors as needed. recycled materials that can be reused. Cuba. depending on the data obtained.
One of their successful alliances with the “Since we began working on the project, Everything started with a request by “To do that, we already have the prototype
Cinesoft to conduct workshops for youth, and are now planning the pilot study at the
Bermejo recalled. Pradera Roja dairy farm, east of Havana,”
The computer specialist affirmed that Barrientos commented.
based on the results of those courses, which The interviewees described the most recent
included kids ages 7 to 14, the feasibility governmental guidelines as favorable, as
of introducing robotics in the educational they increase options available to the self-
system was proven, and the Cuban employed sector by over 2,000 and foster
Information Sciences and Audiovisual Aids projects that include different modalities.
Company (Cinesoft) procured the creation In this sense, they said that the decisions
of prototypes to spread the experience. the country is presently making in relation
“That wish, devised more than three to the non-state sector are suitable,
years ago, has become a multifactorial especially because they are intended to
project headed by the Cuban Pedagogical avoid disparities between the two sectors,
Sciences Institute, composed of teachers which ultimately have a common goal:
and methodology experts, who validate national development.
Soluciones Espiral creates prototypes for industrial development. PHOTOS: Courtesy of Soluciones Espiral.
10 ECONOMY
CUBA
Cohiba Behike:
A Premium Cuban Cigar
By TinoMANUEL cigar) include a category of tobacco leaf
known as medio tiempo (only the two
uppermost leaves of a sun-grown plant)
HAVANA.- Behike (an aboriginal priest) that affords unique flavor and appeal. In
is the name of one of the best and most addition, it has a ring with two security
exclusive Habanos (Cuban cigars), a holograms.
favorite of cigar aficionados around the Local authorities comment that this
world. cigar has become the best secret kept
In these days of social confinement due to of Cohiba, a brand created in 1966 and
COVID-19, and when many people spend the first one on the market after the
many hours at home, smokers can indulge triumph of the Cuban Revolution in
in premium cigars made by the Cuban 1959.
tobacco industry. The brand is not only representative but
Representatives of the Cuban tobacco the most prestigious along with Habanos
industry explained the characteristics S.A. Corporation. The name Cohiba comes
of this product, which came to the from an aboriginal instrument used by
international market in 2010. Cuba’s native people to light up tobacco
Habanos S.A. International Corporation leaves, something that Spanish explorers
explained that Behike cigars are especially witnessed in 1492.
sold at La Casa del Habano franchise, with Behike is made with the best leaves from
over 140 shops in the world. the western Cuban regions of San Juan
A humidor of this product may well cost y Martínez and San Luis, in Pinar del Rio
some 15,000 Euros. Province, and are produced at El Laguito
Behike is the most exclusive line of the Factory in Havana.
already famous Cohiba brand, and it comes Cuba is famous for its hand-rolled premium
in three formats: BHK 52, BHK 54 and BHK 56. cigars, which are considered the best in the
Its production is very limited as all three world thanks to the triple condition of soil,
PHOTO: Prensa Latina.
vitolas (specific size and shape of a weather and producers’ expertise.PHOTO FEATURE 11
Colonial Hotel to Shine again
By WilfredoALAYON La Libertad Park and be located on the third floor.
The project’s first phase included the construction of a
three-story building that connects with the 15 rooms
MATANZAS.- Cuba’s Louvre Hotel, a 19th-century colonial of the original hotel. The new building has 26 rooms, a
building in Matanzas Province, is going through a second multifunctional hall, a cafe and a shop, the specialist said.
renovation phase that will bring its good taste, splendor The restoration actions have maintained the original
and exquisite services again in the near future. architectonic patterns, respecting its patrimonial values;
Located in the historic district of the 300-year-old western hence, the façade and inner courtyards have been
Cuban city, the building was inaugurated in 1879. Once fully preserved, the expert stressed. “The work done has
refurbished, it is expected to reopen at the end of 2021. respected and restored the original design,” noted Cou.
Architect Iván Cou, technical chief of the project, told The Together with Velasco Hotel, located around the central
Havana Reporter that as part of this phase, nine rooms are square, Louvre Hotel forms part of a complex operated by
being built in a nearby building from the same century. Cubanacán Hotel Chain under the brand E (Encanto). It is
There will be a spa on the ground floor, while the an urban tourist destination with great cultural, landscape
PHOTOS: Cubanacán
recreational area, a night club and a snack bar will overlook and patrimonial values.12 LATIN AMERICA
The sentence in question was also repealed by another
ruling by minister Edson Fachin, who referred to the
incompetence of the southern state of Paraná’s Federal
Justice to analyze the processes against Lula.
The decision also cancels out sentences related to the “Car
Wash” operation in Curitiba.
With this historical ruling, the second chamber of the
Supreme Court invalidated the hearing of the so-called
Guarujá’s triplex case, which investigators should now
have to restart.
This was the result of the trial brought forward because
of a lawsuit filed in 2018 by the legal team of the former
metallurgic leader.
In this new scenario, Moro is only suspect of bias in relation
to the Guarujá file.
However, the new magistrate who takes on the cause
– filed to the Federal District Justice by Fachin – will
Former Judge Sérgio Moro. PHOTO: Internet
Lula’s Political Return
be able to either validate the acts of evidence or retry
them.
A potential arbitrariness acknowledgment will depend on
a concrete petition by other attorneys who share the same
nullity in their indictments.
Clearly, Lula’s defense or that of other “Car Wash”
defendants can request extending the decision to the rest
By OsvaldoCARDOSA With 3 votes in favor and 2 against, the STF considered that of the cases in which Moro acted as a judge.
the former magistrate was arbitrary in the first sentence The former Justice minister was not punished for the
ruled against Lula for the alleged acts of corruption. verdict in question; he was just considered a suspect and
BRASILIA.- A recent trial at the Federal Supreme Court The second chamber of the Supreme Court adopted that cannot be punished as a judge unless a crime is attributed
(STF) determined that former judge Sérgio Moro’s ruling decision after an expected change of heart by judge Carmen to him.
on Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva was biased, thus validating that Lúcia, who initially rejected the lawsuit filed by Lula’s attorneys. He could eventually be prosecuted for the damages and
injustice against the former president was a real threat to In 2018, when trial started, Lúcia rejected the action, but prejudices caused to the parties, if fraud is proven.
Brazilian society. she now followed the reasoning of her colleagues Gilmar With the invalidation of the sentences, the former president
The historical decision, made on March 23, also Mendes and Ricardo Lewandowski. vindicates his political rights and could participate in the
affirmed Lula’s statement of innocence and that he was She admitted that new elements proved Moro’s biased 2022 elections.
a victim of an unprecedented political persecution by performance, which favored the accusation and resulted With a clean file, Lula is now a key candidate in the Brazilian
Moro. in an irregular trial. political scenario.ECONOMY 13
Advances in the
Iron Industry
By TeyunéDÍAZ
HAVANA._ The Mariel Special Development for each 21-meter unit and from $1,500 to
Zone (ZEDM) offers the iron and mechanics $2,000 for each 18-meter unit.
industry ways to boost development and The official added that according to data
productivity, substitute imports and foster provided by the electricity company, the
exports. country’s demand rises to about 3,000
In statements to The Havana Reporter, pylons annually, which would mean
Senior Vice President of the Iron and saving over 6 million dollars with only
Mechanics Entrepreneurial Group (GESIME) one product – a benefit that would also
Carlos Estrada affirmed that ZEDM holds contribute to the development of the
major importance due to its contributions Cuban industry.
to foreign investment, a solvent market that Estrada highlighted that all GESIME
allows for new technologies, productive products substitute imports and stressed
stability and innovative products. that exceeding the annual quota has great
This entrepreneurial group is present significance.
in the industrial area since 2012, when In relation to industrial connections, he
it turned over the equivalent of about noted that the iron and mechanics industry
$165,000 with an increase in 2020 to complements other domestic entities
about $416,500. because of its own characteristics.
This year, GESIME predicts to exceed GESIME values its presence at ZEDM and has
$625,000 as “we are determined to promote three main goals: having all 53 companies
ZEDM products that substitute imports,” of the group present, increasing business Senior Vice President of GESIME Carlos Estrada.
the official stressed. in any form and increasing connections
The group’s involvement in the industrial with users.
area continues to increase. In 2012, it only The strategy to increase profits at ZEDM
had five companies and 20 products, while is divided in two modalities: working
by the end of last year, 22 entities were with infrastructure and using part of the
present with 53 products. income in foreign currencies to acquire raw
Estrada noted that recent results are the materials and develop technology in each
scissor lifts, which were imported until industry.
2020. This year, they expect to build 20 of The results reached at the Mariel zone
these lifts for lease at the Mariel zone, which led the group to create a GESIME
will substitute the import of machineries Representation at the industrial area,
whose international value ranges from upon the basis of an import, export and
30,000 to 35,000 dollars. marketing modality that will facilitate
The 17, 12 and 9-meter posts are the other management and sustainability of
element they included last year. Oxidation- businesses with clients, as well as provide
resistant, something important because a quick answer to goods supply.
of the site’s natural conditions, these posts GESIME hopes to prove its capacity to
were previously bought abroad. innovate, grow and adapt itself to new
Something similar happened with the 18 circumstances, as the Cuban iron and
and 21-meter electricity pylons. The group mechanics industry’s goal is to meet the
already planned the production of 300 of present demands while strengthening
these pylons – pending validation – that the economy and providing greater
would represent about $2,000 in savings quality of life.
GESIME PRODUCTS WITH A GREATER
PRESENCE AT ZEDM:
Modular lodging constructions Metal structure premises
Leveling ramps Production centers
Electricity posts Railroad offices and train terminals
Aluminum and PVC work Cast iron grating and molds
GESIME products substitute imports. PHOTOS: Prensa Latina.14 ECONOMY
Efforts to Replace Imports
hospital services as result of the sudden
escalation of COVID-19 patients.
But GEIQ is also interconnected with other
important institutions such as the Raw
Material Recycling Group. Its materials are
By RaquelDÍAZ used to produce egg trays, toilet paper and
paper products for hospital use.
It is also connected with GEOMINSAL
HAVANA.- Cuba’s chemical industry (Geo-Mining and Salt Production Group),
recorded some seven million dollars in which is in charge of supplying salt, a raw
savings in 2020 by replacing imports, material that is essential to the production
which is a key element of the country’s of chlorine, hypochlorite acid and caustic
socioeconomic strategy, an official source soda, as well as zeolite to produce fertilizers,
revealed. and silica sand and calcium carbonate to
Together with that result, an additional 15 produce glass.
percent in savings is anticipated for 2021. In the meantime, the AZCUBA Sugarcane
Changes will include the enhancement of Business Group supplies alcohol to make
six pesticide formulations, both the for the insecticide, cologne and other light chemical
sugarcane and non-sugarcane agricultural formulations that are essential for wholesale
sector, previously bought on the and retail productions. For its part, GEIQ
international market, Vice President of the provides over 30 products to ensure
Chemical Industry’s Business Group (QEIQ) the sugarcane industry’s sustainability,
Lissette Alonso told The Havana Reporter. including fertilizers, pesticides, chemicals,
In 2020, the country did not have to buy President of the Chemical Industry’s Business Group (QEIQ) Lissette Alonso. PHOTOS: Prensa Latina. gases, tires and services.
chlorine, caustic soda or hydrochloric acid The chemical industry is directly connected
abroad because of the investment in local parallel to their demand, both by state- They group six key sectors: industrial to the production of food, which is one of
production at the electrochemical plant run health institutions and the population. and medicinal gases, electrochemical the country’s strategic programs, Alonso
of Sagua –in the central Cuban Province Those solutions are used to disinfect, clean products, paper, tires, fertilizers and glass, emphasized. In turn, GEIQ makes products
of Villa Clara. The Cuban plant made the and sanitize. she explained. that are indispensable for other companies
stable production of those products The products made by the chemical They interact directly with agriculture, to manufacture their goods, which are
possible, she exemplified. industry are essential for different sectors the sugarcane agroindustry and its by- equally necessary for the national economy.
These efforts are a significant contribution of the economy, and almost all of them products, tourism, health, construction, As for non-state forms of management,
to fight the COVID-19 pandemic because, are included in Cuba’s priority programs, and foreign and domestic trade, the GEIQ she stressed that for many years they have
she noted, their production has increased Alonso said. Vice President stressed. maintained associations with licensed
According to Alonso, productive welders that can acquire industrial gases.
collaboration among state-owned entities Those relationships are expected to
is another strategy carried out by the increase with the new regulations adopted
Business Group. Most of that collaboration by the Cuban State, Alonso added.
occurs within the chemical industry. The GEIG Vice President stressed the
The company Oxicuba, for instance, importance of the investments made in
supplies medicinal and industrial oxygen recent years and added that others included
to the Industrial Gas Enterprise which, in in the country’s Growth Plan and economic
turn, supplies oxygen, nitrogen, argon, recovery strategy are yet to come.
acetylene, and carbon dioxide to the entire Footnotes
entrepreneurial system and Public Health -GEIQ supplies over 30 products to ensure
Ministry. the sugarcane industry’s sustainability
In the case of oxygen, Alonso commented, -Enlargement of the chlorine factory in
it was necessary to increase its production Sagua la Grande
in a short period of time due to the -Oxicuba supplies medicinal and industrial
increasing number of isolation centers and gas to the Industrial Gas EnterpriseSPORTS 15
Stars in European Handball
Taking a look at the statistics, Claudio Ramos has scored
11 goals in 18 games with the Ubu San Pablo Burgos
team, while Noelvis Robles and Frank Cordiés have scored
26 and 14 goals, respectively, as members of the Vestas
Balonmano Alarcos Ciudad Real.
By YodeniMASÓ of signed athletes in Spain, with 13 in different levels of At the National Men’s League, Yailán Hechevarría has
competition. scored 112 goals with the Balonmano Romo Indupine
Experienced athlete Guillermo Corzo (Fertiberia Puerto team, as a result of which he is placed fourth in the top
HAVANA.- While few sporting exchanges have been held Sagunto) and rookies Ángel Jesús Rivero (Bm. Benidorm) scorers list in group C.
at the national level, Cuban handball talents currently and Dariel García (Bm. Guadalajara) play in the Asobal Magnol Suárez, for his part, shines on the Unión
train in Europe, where about 20 players have scored League’s Honor Division, while six other handball players Financiera team for his saves and defensive plays from
goals in the Spanish, French, Portuguese and Slovakian are enrolled in the Silver Honor and National Men category. the goal, while Yankiel Cruzata is playing steadily with
leagues. Corzo heads the Puerto Sagunto team while Rivero is an the Cdbm Delicias team, in pool B.
Immersed in the second round of their respective offensive pillar for the Benidorm squad, just as García is for Also in Spain, Lorena Téllez (Aula Alimentos Valladolid)
competitions, Cuba presently has the highest number the Guadalajara team. and Gleinnys Reyes (Adesal Córdova) stand out in the
Guerreras Iberdrola league, while Niurkis Mora and
Arislaidy Márquez play in the Silver Honor Division with
the Rodríguez Cleba Club.
Another three internationally experienced players –
Reinier Taboada, Yoel Cuni and Yosdani Ríos – have
also scored goals in the French Star League as alternate
athletes of the Dunkerque and Tremblay teams.
Goalkeeper Alejandro Romero, for his part, plays in the
second division with the Pontaul-Combault Club, while
Eyatne Rizo is one of the best offensive female players of
the Fleury Loiret.
In Portugal, Pedro Valdés shines in his fourth season with
the Sporting Club at the Andebol tournament and the
European League and Pavel Caballero is the leader of the
Guillermo Corzo heads the Puerto Sagunto team. PHOTO: Internet. multiple-time champion Tatran Presov, in Slovakia.
Cuban Hopefuls for Tokyo 2021 By JhonahDÍAZ
HAVANA.- Cuba hopes to exhibit its athletic talents in his talent and won the 2021 World Athletics Indoor Tour, is training to perfection to go to the Olympic Games in
Tokyo 2021, and track and field is one of its strongest undefeated. tip-top shape.
areas. The spirit of the Olympic Games is so contagious His three performances were victorious: 8.18 in Karlsruhe, Although chances are fewer, Cuba also relies on other top
that Cuba’s most promising athletes train hard every day Germany, 8.25 in Lievin, France, and 8.14 in Madrid, Spain. athletes: high jumper Luis Enrique Zayas, triple jumpers
with that goal in mind. The Cuban athlete thus repeated his victory of 2020 at Liadagmis Povea and Jordan Díaz, and long jumper
Outstanding Cuban figures from several sport disciplines the world circuit after taking the lead over Greek Miltiadis Maikel Massó, whose youth and talent maintain fans’
have stood out in recent years, with outstanding Tentoglou and German Thobias Montler, who came in high hopes.
combinations of youth, talent and experience. However, second and third, respectively. Five years ago in Río de Janeiro 2016, Cuba was rather far
all of them have one same goal in mind. The international champion in Birmingham 2018 trained from its goals, with only Caballero placing third. This is
Having analyzed the context, it is evident that women throughout the winter to enhance some of his technical one of the reasons why it is determined to return to the
play a leading role. Yaimé Pérez and Denia Caballero have skills. Together with his coach Daniel Osorio, the Cuban Olympic stadium stronger than ever.
been among the top female discus throwers for years,
while pole-vaulter Yarisley Silva is hoping to close out her
athletic career on a high note, to leave a legacy that will
withstand the passing of time.
Pérez and Caballero, gold and silver medalist in Doha
2019, respectively, may well repeat those excellent
performances in the Japanese capital; nonetheless, they
will face a strong rival: Croatian Sandra Perkovic, bronze
medalist of that world event.
The three athletes should not have any problem filling
the medal board; so, the big question will be in what
order. All three of these athletes throw over 67 meters
frequently, something that few discus throwers have
done during this Olympic cycle.
Meanwhile, Silva, silver medalist in London 2012, has
the challenge of closing out her career at 33-years-
old, which is not an easy thing to do, according to
other athletes. However, the pole-vaulter seems to
be pushing for that last victory to top off her athletic
success.
On the road to the Olympic Games, long jumper Juan
Miguel Echevarría has become the star of the Cuban
delegation. Despite his young age of 22, many are
focusing their attention on him.
Even experts have said again and again that he is the
right athlete to break the nine-meter barrier in that
modality. It’s worth mentioning that Echevarría showed Juan Miguel Echevarría has become the star of the Cuban delegation. PHOTO: Prensa Latina.16 U.S.A
CUBA
The Great U.S.
Defeat in the Americas
By NoelioTIUNA at sea had been spotted. Battalion 339 from
Cienfuegos Province was sent to the zone and
prepared for the enemy attack.
Photo Archive/ By Miguel & JoaquinVIÑAS Operation Pluto was thus being materialized,
inherited by President John F. Kennedy. Brigade
2506, made up of 1,500 members, had left Cabezas
HAVANA.- The mercenary invasion of Cuba, Port, Nicaragua, aboard five U.S. ships escorted by
defeated on April 19, 1961, was not only one of the the Navy.
most ambitious projects plotted by the U.S. Central The battles were bloody and the air raids of the
Intelligence Agency (CIA) but one of the most B-26 planes were criminal, as they even used
resounding defeats as well. napalm bombs, leaving more than 150 dead and
Cuba remembers that event as the “first great hundreds injured.
defeat of imperialism in the Americas.” However, Washington failed in its attempt to
Code-named Operation Pluto, the plan had been establish a warhead, because the invaders were
approved by U.S. President Dwight Eisenhower on defeated in less than three days by the Cuban Fidel Castro commanded the battles and even fired canons at the Houston,
March, 17, 1960 with the objective of overthrowing militia, the National Revolutionary Police and the an invading ship.
the emerging Cuban Revolution, with the active Rebel Army, led by Fidel.
participation of the Joint Chiefs of Staff of the U.S. The puppet government never landed in Cuba and
Armed Forces. the United States never got to invade it militarily in
An army of exiles, including ex-figures of Dictator support for its mercenary troops, although aircraft
Fulgencio Batista (some of them responsible for carriers and destroyers were deployed around the
crimes against the Cuban people) was recruited, Cuban coastline.
trained and equipped in Guatemala. As the sun was going down on April 19, 1961, Fidel
The invasion was conducted by sea and air in an Castro, who commanded the battles and even
effort to conquer the coast in the southern Bay fired canons at the invading ship the Houston,
of Pigs, and establish a government previously announced “forces of the Rebel Army and the
appointed by Washington and confined at a military National Revolutionary Militias took by storm the
base of the Pentagon. last strongholds occupied by the mercenary forces
That act of war was accompanied by internal in national territory.”
subversion, armed infiltrations, sabotage and Playa Girón beach was the last spot to be retaken by
The invasion was conducted by sea and air in an effort to conquer the coast.
criminal actions. It was also characterized by quite Cuban forces, at 5:30pm that day.
an armory of psychological and advertising moves
on the radio, in the newspaper, the television and
literature with the objective of creating the ideal
scenario for the invasion.
On October 7, 1960, Cuban Foreign Minister Raúl
Roa announced at the UN that preparations were
being taken for an invasion of Cuba, and that the
participants were being trained at Helvetia Farm in
western Guatemala.
BOMBING OF CUBAN AIRPORTS
On April 15, 1961 war planes with false Cuban
banners simultaneously attacked the San Antonio
de los Baños Air Base, the Ciudad Libertad runway
and the Santiago de Cuba Airport. It was the
prelude to the invasion in an attempt to destroy
the poor and old revolutionary Air Force.
Strongly repelled by Cuban artillery, the invasion
left seven people dead and many others injured,
mostly civilians. During the burial ceremony, Fidel
Castro proclaimed the socialist character of the
Revolution.
Cuba was at the same time waging a diplomatic
battle at the UN. Its foreign minister denounced
the air raid and blamed U.S. authorities for it.
Washington’s representative Adlai Stevenson
made himself look dumb, deceived by the reports
provided by his own government.
On April 17, the debates would go on at the world
organization, while Cuba was receiving countless
signs of support. Further south, the mercenary
disembarkation began on Playa Larga beach.
THE INVASION
At dawn, militiaman José Ramón González Suco
alerted from Playa Larga that lights and movement Playa Girón beach was the last spot to be retaken by Cuban forcesYou can also read
