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YEAR IX Nº 14 avana eporter NOV 29, 2019 YOUR SOURCE OF NEWS & MORE H R HAVANA, CUBA A Monthly Newspaper of the Prensa Latina News Agency ISSN 2224-5707 Price: 1.00 CUC / 1.00 USD 1.20 CAN The Awaited Tourist UN Reaffirms Vote Against Season in Cuba Blockade

P. 2 P. 4 Culture Spotlight Sports The World’s Most Lavish Havana, Real and Wonderful, Cuba´s women wrestlers Cigar Party Celebrates 500 Years

P. 6 P. 7 P. 15 2 TOURISM The Awaited Tourist Season in Cuba

By Roberto F.CAMPOS

HAVANA.- Each year, the tourist season ships. However, the arrival of U.S. in Cuba (November-April) gives a fresh visitors decreased more than 40 percent look to one of the most important sectors due to the Trump Administrations new of the Cuban economy, an industry that economic policy against Cuba. has remained unstoppable. Germany, whose cruise ship Despite the damages of U.S was the first to dock in

blockade to that sector, 2019 has not Havana this season, , the United ACN PHOTO: been the exception, as travelers from Kingdom, Italy and Spain contributed many parts of the world come to the one million tourists, accounting for island, eager to get to know it or to 20 percent of the total. Other markets repeat a past visit. with records in tourists’ arrivals were The difference this time around is the Mexico with 21 percent, Russia (30%), new U.S. economic pressures intending China (10%), along with Colombia and to hinder the Cuban tourist industry, Portugal. even though this sector advocates for There is a strong investment peace and tolerance for the whole world, process amid this year’s special regardless of political conflicts. occasion, including 13 new hotels in This is a very special year, as Havana Havana alone. is celebrating 500 years of founding Business opportunities comprise (November 16), with a packed program 170 projects, while 27 joint ventures of activities, cultural events and are already operating, together with conferences to mark that date. The 94 administration contracts and 19 capital receives more than half of the management contracts, accounting tourists that visit Cuba. for 44,000 rooms -62 percent of all the In 2018, 4,732,000 tourists came rooms in the country (over 72,000). to the island, one percent over the That work is complemented by previous year. This year, Cuban 26,000 privately-owned rooms, which authorities ratified the commitment to are in high demand and booked by welcome 4.7 million foreign visitors. tour operators and travel agencies. Canada continues to be the Havana currently has 12,488 rooms, 51 number one market of tourists to the percent of which belong to four and island with 1,109,000 visitors last year, five-star hotels. accounting for a 23 percent increase. This is just a glimpse of the island’s That same year, the United States panorama, which has not stopped but stood as the second issuing market multiplied, as the Cuban Minister of

of vacationers, largely through cruise Tourism, Manuel Marrero, once said. Internet PHOTO:

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YOUR SOURCE OF NEWS & MORE SOCIETY.HEALTH & SCIENCE.POLITICS.CULTURE THE ENTERTAINMENT.PHOTO FEATURE.ECONOMY HavanaReporter SPORTS.AND MORE President: Luis Enrique González. Art Direction: Anathais Rodríguez Information Vice President: Moisés Pérez Mok Graphic Designers: Fernando Fernandez Tito Printing: Imprenta Federico Engels Editorial Vice President: Lianet Arias Chief Graphic Editor: Francisco González Publisher: Agencia Informativa Latinoamericana, Prensa Latina, S.A. Chief Editor: Luis Melian Assistant Staff: Yaimara Portuondo Calle E, esq. 19 No. 454, Vedado, La Habana-4, Cuba. English Editor: Mitra Ghaffari Advertising: René García Telephone: (53)7838-3496 / 7832-3578 Translation: Dayamí Interian/ Yanely Interián Circulation: Commercial Department. Fax: (53)7833-3068 E-mail: [email protected] CUBA 3 Italy and Cuba Cooperate to Confront Climate Change

HAVANA.- Cuba and Italy recently inaugurated three By RobertoSALOMON UNDP Resident Representative in Cuba Soledad projects following the first stage of the cooperation Bauza said that these projects follow the comprehensive program to confront climate change. Executives agreed vision promoted by the UN 2030 Agenda. that these projects are expected to strengthen bilateral The results will contribute to several of the objectives cooperation in the field. agreed upon on the Sustainable Development Goals, These groundbreaking initiatives, through the Tarea she mentioned. Vida (Life Task) program, cover the following areas: Sea Two of these projects will be based on the Surveillance, ECOATLAS and Engineering Solutions work of the Environment Agency (EA), the Institute for the Havana’s Malecón (seawall). As stated at the of Meteorology (INSTMET) and the Cienfuegos opening conference, this cooperation is based on the Center for Environmental Studies – the two latter, Memorandum of Understanding between the Global prestigious Cuban scientific institutions. On this UNDP and Italy. occasion, the GAMMA Investment Company - an According to Cuban First Deputy Minister of outstanding Cuban consultancy center – will also Sciences, Technology and Environment (CITMA) José join the initiative. Fidel Santana, all three projects have innovative The ECOATLAS and the Sea Surveillance projects content. will have an important impact on the adaptation and They take advantage of technology, new practices UNDP Representative Soledad Bauza mitigation actions that Cuba will conduct. and methodologies through the gradual and Both initiatives foresee the transfer of technology, specialized formation of Cuban human resources, the improvement and diversification of the early-warning official noted. systems, development of adaptation measures’ He also mentioned that this is an opportunity for design based on the ecosystems, and the increase of bilateral cooperation in the framework of the Cuban knowledge about the potential of ocean currents as a State Plan to Face Climate Change – known as Tarea Vida renewable energy source. – that was endorsed by the government on April 2017. Bauza also noted that the project on engineering These projects also include services of high solutions for the Malecón is extremely important for aggregate value and technical assistance, which can the capital, as it will identify and evaluate the feasibility have an impact on the improvement of monitoring of reducing coastal flooding. and research systems related to coastal ecosystems, In statements to The Havana Reporter, Bauza the official added. described the 40-year cooperation of the UNDP and This is an experience that, as usual, the country Cuba as excellent. She also explained that the new five- shares with other small, developing, island states, year cooperation cycle – which starts in 2020 – includes especially from the Caribbean, that face the threat of areas such as access to economic development and the

similar climate change-related problems. Internet Latina, Prensa PHOTOS: Deputy Minister Santana country’s resilience to face climate change. Economic Strategy for Development

By MarioESQUIVEL

HAVANA.- The Cuban economy, which In addition, this initiative involves is currently updating its model, intends a limited number of goods, while the to stop the capital flight and guarantee commercial network will keep the most funds in convertible currency to finance of the supply operating under the Cuban key sectors. peso (CUP) and the convertible peso One of the newest measures is the (CUC). establishment of commercial centers Along with this, the spending that was that operate freely using bank accounts previously going to international markets in USD. can now be collected nationally, thus According to local authorities, the allowing Cuban companies to improve Minister Alejandro Gil plan involves the sale of electrical the handling of resources. appliances and car parts at 75 centers, The freely convertible currencies 13 of which (12 in Havana and one in the would guarantee the replenishment of country’s east) have begun operating as basic products, import and investments part of phase one. in Cuban stores. The Minister of Economy, Alejandro The measure has been implemented Gil, said the profit obtained from those alongside new U.S. restrictions on the operations will be used to carry out Cuban economy, particularly the limit projects of high social impact and to of family remittances and restrictions reactivate the industrial sector. on U.S. airlines that fly between the two Gil ruled out doubts surrounding countries. a possible dollarization of the Cuban Starting on December 10, U.S. flights economy and declared that the U.S. dollar to Cuban destinations other than Havana circulation in cash will not be approved in will be discontinued, resulting in an any form. immediate increase in the price of charter On the contrary, the transactions flights. will be made with magnetic cards and With this step, the Cuban government banks will accept deposits in a number is prioritizing operations that allow for of convertible currencies, such as the the increase in exports and to stimulate Japanese yen, the Canadian dollar, the income in fullyconvertible currency, in Mexican peso, Euros, the Swiss and order to import goods and services that Danish crown, to mention just a few. benefit the population. Internet PHOTOS: 4 CUBA-U.S. UN Reaffirms Vote Against Blockade By IbisFRADE selling food and medicine to Cuba, which Washington’s undeniable isolation the representatives emphasized that the rarely materialize.” was corroborated again at the UN General U.S. blockade poses the main obstacle to sustainable development in Cuba and is a UNITED NATIONS.- For 28th consecutive violation of the human rights of an entire time, the UN General Assembly approved country. a resolution demanding that the U.S. They also condemned the activation blockade against Cuba be lifted, and of Title III of the Helms-Burton Act, rejected the hostile policy Washington which allows issuing lawsuits from U.S. maintains against the island. territory against companies that trade Over 40 UN member countries and with Cuba. The Cuban Foreign Minister international organizations such as the spoke of the pressure and blackmail that Movement of Non-Aligned Countries and U.S. authorities resorted to in order to the Group of 77 plus China condemned influence the historic voting pattern at the markedly extraterritorial nature the UN in favor of the resolution that calls of the blockade along with the new for the end of the economic, commercial coercive measures adopted by the Trump and financial blockade against Cuba. administration, including the activation That resolution had the support of

of Title III of the Helms-Burton Act. Internet PHOTOS: 187 of the 193 UN member countries. But the U.S. representation at the United Only the United States, Israel and Nations once again justified their actions “The U.S. delegation should explain Assembly. Its brutal pressures are proof voted against it; Ukraine and Colombia by saying they are free to choose who they before this Assembly the terms imposed of the current government’s moral and abstained and Moldova was not present trade with, and expressed alleged concern on Cuban purchases: no access to credits, degeneration, the Minister stated. when voting took place. over the Cuban people’s human rights. neither official nor private, the goods On November 6 and 7, diplomats The largest UN organization has held The Cuban Minister of Foreign Affairs, must be paid in cash when they get to the and top representatives from different firm against the blockade since 1992, Bruno Rodríguez, rejected the cynicism port, banks that handle our transactions countries participated in the forum but the U.S. government continues to of that statement, replaying, “the U.S. are condemned, and Cuban ships cannot to condemn the intensification of ignore the international community and government alleges to be supporting my be used,” the Minister explained. Washington’s hostile policy and unilateral maintains its hostile policy against the country when in fact, it is responsible for “The U.S. blockade causes incalculable coercive measures against Cuba. largest island of the Antilles. our hardships.” humanitarian damage. It is a flagrant, massive Their speeches repeatedly denounced To date, the U.S. blockade against Likewise, he accused the U.S. and systematic violation of the human rights the extraterritorial nature of the Cuba stands as the most unfair, severe representation of lying and distorting of an entire country,” he stressed. “The U.S. blockade and the escalation of U.S. and longest system of unilateral sanctions information about “alleged licenses for government is responsible.” aggressions toward the island. Similarly, ever imposed against a country.

Trump Bans Many U.S. Flights to Cuba By TinoMANUEL

HAVANA.- Cuba is a bone of contention The U.S. Department of for U.S. citizens, with Washington’s Transportation announced that the detrimental economic and commercial JetBlue and American Airlines flights to policy against the island on the one Santa Clara, Holguín and Camagüey will hand and the cultural appeal of the be banned, beginning on December 10. tourist destination on the other. The ban responds to “a request by One way or another, the Caribbean the Department of State,” U.S. authorities island resembling an alligator has always recently said. been on the bucket list of U.S. travelers. Havana as a destination accounts Today, this is the only country in the for the large majority of flights from the world that the U.S. citizens cannot visit United States to Cuba and remains to be freely. a legal and convenient option to visit the After more than 50 years of economic island. pressure, the island has received another The overall objective of the measure hard blow aimed to besiege the Cuban is to obstruct tourism on the island, tourist industry. which the U.S. government prohibits Recent impositions of the Trump for its citizens. However, many of the Administration impact the airline sector, passengers on flights with destinations discontinuing many routes between the outside of Havana have been Cubans U.S. and Cuba. In the meantime, flights visiting family, not just tourists. from other parts of the world to the The General Director of U.S. Affairs island are increasing. at the Cuban Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Cuban authorities recognize that Carlos Fernández de Cossío, stated that, Havana shows promising statistics with “imperialism attacks the regular flights 51 airlines connecting it with 36 cities to several Cuban cities as part of its around the world. During the high desire to punish Cuba’s unyielding rebel tourist season (November-April), Cuba nature.” averages 450 flights weekly. The official added, “the U.S. The Trump Administration has now government does not mind damaging prohibited all U.S. flights to Cuba except family contact or creating unfair those to Havana, thus casting a shadow inconveniences.” over the civil aviation panorama. This is a Nevertheless, Cuba welcomes over new measure aimed at tightening what four million tourists each year and Cuba and many parts of the world call the increase in the tourist industry is the blockade. notable. Analysts agree that the U.S. The objective is to reverse the government’s measures hinder the normalization efforts made by the number of flights but will not stop Obama Administration that tried to the tourist sector, which many people bring the United States and Cuba closer. around the world support. Internet PHOTOS: HEALTH & SCIENCE 5 Blockade doesn’t Stop Progress of Cuban Medicine Text & Photo: CiraRODRIGUEZ

HAVANA.- The Institute of Neurology and Similarly, a minimally invasive Neurosurgery, founded in 1966, is a product neurosurgery solution was introduced of the Cuban national health system that for drug-resistant epilepsy, which is stands out for the positive results achieved only conducted at this institute and the in relation to excellent medical attention International Center for Neurological and high satisfaction among patients. Restoration (CIREN). As the governing body of neurosciences Both centers have the specialized in Cuba, the center is notable for its level equipment and the technological of professionalism, despite the limitations resources necessary to conduct this type and difficulties that Cuba faces. of surgery. For that reason, as neurosurgery Another new technique implemented specialist Dr Orestes López affirmed, recently in the country is the endoscopic “we are one hundred percent Cuban surgery through natural orifices. Unlike neurosurgeons,” implying how most of intracranial endoscopy, this technique them were born, grew up and became leaves no scares and reduces the patient’s doctors amidst the economic, commercial time in the hospital. and financial blockade imposed by the The endovascular treatment for United States on Cuba. complex vascular malformations is However, in spite of the hostile surgeries cannot be performed, as well as but also in the expertise of the specialists, being applied as well. For an intravenous siege, the institute has been able to an endoscope and surgical microscope who are able to introduce new surgical malformation like an intracranial unify two neurosciences disciplines that allow using several minimally procedures in spite of the difficulties aneurism, which were previously cured and other specialties extended all over invasive techniques in the three imposed by the blockade. through open surgeries, are now treated the country. Starting with educating operating rooms that they are available,” An example of this is the Ictus less invasively, through an artery. the first specialists,the instituteLópez commented. room, which provides comprehensive Another novel technique is spinal provided neuroscience services in every “Those conditions allow us to do attention through post-surgery fusion and fixation, performed on patients clinical-surgical and pediatric hospital more than 50 percent of the surgeries treatments and therapies to patients with degenerative manifestations. The throughout the country. through the use of the minimally invasive suffering from that disease – objective is to reduce the risk of future López, who’s also the institute’s technique and this year, we have 800 characterized by the sudden loss alterations in vertebral joints, by fixing Deputy Director, added that he’s proud surgeries planned, a number which is of neurological function as a result vertebral disks together with sheets to have been trained to attend patients difficult to attain even in developed of a cerebral stroke or intracranial and screws, resulting in very favorable and use high-tech neurology and countries,” he added. hemorrhage. prognoses for patients. neurosurgery equipment, in similar As tumors are the most common It’s worth highlighting that all of these conditions to prevailing programs in THE SURGICAL PROGRESS pathology, nine surgeries of great surgeries are free of charge for Cuban developed countries,regardless of the ADVANCES complexity are made on a weekly basis— citizens, unlike in other parts of the world, obstacles of the blockade. The excellence of the Institute of Neurology recently,a risky surgery was performed to where the patients must pay between “We have, for example, a neuro- and Neurosurgery doesn’t exclusively lie eliminate a tumor in the brain’sso-called 20,000-30,000 dollars for these advanced browser, without which these types of in the services and high-tech equipment, ‘dark corner.’ operations.

Endless Climate Change Negotiations and Nothing to Show By Ana LauraARBESU

HAVANA.- Global negotiations to combat environmental issues have taken place for over 25 years and few positive results have come out of them. A few weeks ago, the United Nations Headquarters in New York hosted the Climate Action Summit, an urgent call to meet commitments in order to curb greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. The summit came to an end with the commitments of several countries to reduce pollutant emissions and foster renewable energies; however, analysts wonder how this will be put into practice. In 2015, various nations around the world adopted the Agreement, with the goal to hold the increase in the global average temperature at between 2°C and 1.5°C. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change

(IPCC) – a body of the UN – indicates that in order to Internet PHOTO: hold the increase of global temperatures at 1.5°C, it is important to meet the net zero CO2 emissions by 2050. the problem, especially those living in poverty and in Contribution in response to the Paris Agreement. According to specialists, holding the negative CO2 fragile areas, are most at risk.” These platforms support the country’s climate net zero emissions balance doesn’t mean zero emissions, Considering these premises, the world will approach policies, where adaptation is the main priority, linked as total prevention is not realistic. the next Climate Change Conference (COP 25) to be held to important commitments of efficiency and renewable Although developed nations are historically and in , Spain, December 2 - 13, 2019 energy. currently responsible for most of the world’s GHG The country will analyze the results of the first stage emissions, lower-income countries are the ones that CUBA’S STANCE of the Tarea Vida program (up to 2020) and update the suffer the devastating effects of extreme phenomena The state of the environment is not an alien topic to Nationally Determined Contribution project, taking into such as cyclones, storms, flooding, heat waves, droughts Cuban geography and although the country’s global consideration the objectives of the National Economic and the rising sea level. emissions barely reach 0.08 percent, two programs and Social Development Plan for 2030. The Global Commission on Adaptation’s most recent have been underway since 2017 to face climate change: The nation’s goal is that by 2030, 24 percent of the report states that, “the people who did the least to cause Tarea Vida (Life Task) and the Nationally Determined energy used in Cuba comes from renewable sources. 6 CULTURE Havana, the Protagonist at Cuba’s Fine Arts Museum By LizBOBADILLA

In the form of a stage, muse, motif, old but young at the same time, with cracks, salt residue, rumba, color, architecture and people— Havana turned 500. The celebrations held on November 16 to mark its anniversary were just the beginning, as festivities continue at cultural institutions throughout the island. The history of the 500-year-old capital will be illustrated at the National Museum of Fine Arts (Bellas Artes) exhibition, through archaeological relics, maps, illustrations, paintings, engravings and photos. Entitled “Havana: Images of Five Centuries,” the exhibition will remain open to the public at the museum’s Cuban Art building from December 13 to February 2020, with the objective of demonstrating the historic course of the city through nine central themes. Curated by Niurka Fanego, María Lucía Bernal and Manuel Crespo, the exhibit shows Havana’s first images on record together with contemporary pieces, ranging from cartographies to engravings and paintings made by European artists in the 18th,

19th and 20th centuries. Internet PHOTO: According to Fanego, the first series of works illustrates the indigenous communities of Havana (the Taínos and settlers who came from Campeche), with archaeological during talks with the Spanish Ambassador in Cuba and with several representatives objects and charters with the geographic location of the first three settlements, of Prado, the most important cultural institution in Spain and one with the most highlighting Puentes Grandes. renowned in Europe. The exhibit also includes a film section that will screen fragments of films shot in the Fernández noted that the artist from Aragon is more closely related to Cuba than Marvelous City, complied by Antonio Masón, a specialist of the Photographic Library other great maestros, due to his relation with the Royal Academy of Fine Arts of San of Cuba, as well as photos of old urban zones that still exist in their contemporary Fernando and the model of the San Alejandro National Academy of Arts of Havana. forms, taken by photographers since the late 19th century. Fernández added that after Caravaggio’s painting Narcissus was on display at the Talented contemporary visual artists from the island (Gustavo Acosta, Glenda museum in 2012, visits to the institution greatly increased. He hopes the same thing Salazar, Duvier del Dago Fernández, Diango Hernández, Carlos Garaicoa, Octavio Irving will happen with this exhibition,as the Spanish collection is one of the largest among and Yohandis Suárez Peña), will have pieces on display as well, illustrating Havana from the European works, although Goya has not been represented. their own creative visions. Jorge Peralta, the Cultural Attaché of the Spanish Embassy in Cuba, said this is not the The exhibition, which will feature new virtual reality technology, grants privilege to first time that the piece has traveled to the Americas. It was previously taken to the United the testimonial values of the artworks. States and has been in more than 20 exhibitions in the region over the past 20 years. The nearly 150 works that will make up the exhibition will allow the public to see Among the highlights of this month was another cultural event known as “Arte Havana through the different perspectives of over 50 visual artists. y Moda” (Art and Fashion), which combined textile design, decoration, architecture, Goya Joins Havana for its 500th Birthday fashion shows, music and photography, together with activities that corroborated the The Late Self-Portrait, painted by Goya at 69-years-old, will be on display at the close relation between the environment and fabrics (known as the second skin), thanks Cuban cultural institution for the month following King Felipe and Queen Letizia of to the talent of professionals from Cuba, Mexico, Spain, Italy, Germany and Belgium. Spain’s visit to Havana on November 12-14. November also witnessed the 1st Meeting of Museums and Communities: The Spanish painter’s self-portrait, described as the last classic and first modern Integration and Interactive Experiences, which provided room for conversations piece, marks a turning point between past and modern times. about the relationship between museums, education and communities, based on the According to Jorge Fernández, the museum’s director, the idea was conceived experiences in Cuba and other countries. The World’s Most Lavish Cigar Party HAVANA.- The 22nd edition of the Habano Festival, Text & Photos: FranciscoMENENDEZ Germany, Fifth Avenue Trading GMBH, had a stand to take place in the Cuban capital next February, at the INTER-TABAC Fair, held recently in Dortmund, reintroduces the idea that Havana is the best place Germany. During this event, both entities in the world for smoking premium cigars. demonstrated the highlights of the year and other Over one thousand cigar fans from about 70 products of great value in the German market. countries will be in attendance, who come to Cuba INTER-TABAC is Europe’s most important trading this time of the year to enjoy one of the most fair for cigars and related accessories. Over 400 prestigious international cigar events. exhibitors from 60 countries offer participants a The festival, to be held from February 24-28, unique range of products and services. 2020, has a surprise in store, especially for those In line with that, the Coprova y Seita Cigares looking for the best and most unique brands: The Company – an exclusive distributor in France Habanos S.A. Company will be featured for the - launched the first limited edition of the Quai occasion. D’Orsay brand in Paris. The program includes the welcoming night, This brand was presented in a unique box, tours of best tobacco plantations,(this time at the exclusively designed for this Limited Edition. Zona de Partido, in the San Antonio de los Baños The box includes 25 “long filler and handmade” municipality)as well as visits to the most emblematic cigars rolled after a careful selection of the cigar factories and its commercial fair. wrappers, fillers and binders in Pinar del Río– Cuba’s Seminars on cigars’ tradition, history and culture; westernmost province, where the world’s best the third edition of the International Habanos World cigars come from. Challenge; the long-awaited Masterly Lesson on Quai D’Orsay is the result of French smokers’ Cigar Rolling; the Gala Dinner and its auction, among particular preferences. Created in the 1970s, it was other activities, are also included in the program. named after the renowned Parisian avenue located The festival’s opening night will be dedicated on the banks of the Seine River. to the Bolívar brand, while the second night will Made on a request of the then French Ministry of commemorate the 30th anniversary of the Casa Finances, these cigars try to represent a combination del Habano’s network of franchises and the 85th of French refinement and Cuban authenticity and anniversary of the Montecristo brand. The night of passion. the Gala will feature the Romeo and Juliette brand Following the festive atmosphere that is bringing – one of the most admired brands of the Habanos’ 2019 to a close, cigar lovers hope the Habano portfolio, which celebrates its 175th anniversary. Festival to be a resounding success, as it has in Prior to Havana’s Habano Festival, the Habanos previous editions, offering a unique opportunity to S.A. Company and its exclusive distributor in approach the Cuban cigar agribusiness. SPOTLIGHT 7 Havana, Real and Wonderful, Celebrates 500 Years By YelenaRODRÍGUEZ

HAVANA.- Havana, real and wonderful, Prado Museum to the Cuban National owner of a historic past that’s neither Fine Arts Museum -to be exhibited at forgotten nor renounced, joyfully the fourth floor of the Universal Arts celebrated its 500th anniversary on building for a month- was a highlight of November 16, aware of the challenges the celebrations. ahead and focused on a prosperous future. Another present came from the The city of poets and romantics, of Russian city of Saint Petersburg, which tobacco growers, of heroes, of humble gathered here outstanding figures of and mixed-race people, a witness of the Mariinski State Academic Theater, countless of historical events, became the Bolshoi Theater, the Mijáilovski music and party in which a joyful crowd Theater and the Saint Petersburg Leoníd filled the streets to celebrate the occasion. Yakobsón Ballet. As Havana city’s historian Eusebio The stars came from Italy. The Leal Spengler predicted last year, during downtown Galiano Avenue, also in the 499th anniversary, the Cuban capital the capital, was lit for the first time celebrated in style the advent of Havana’s as part of the Luci d´Artista Project, 500 years under a fine drizzle. byset designer Carmelo Giammello The traditional ceremony, which who brought to Havana the Milky Way includes going around a Ceiba tree three constellations. times to ask for good luck and fortune, The public lighting works, created gathered hundreds of visitors and Havana since 1998 for the Italian Christmas people in the very site in which the first parties, came for the first time to Cuba mass and city council of the San Cristóbal with the Italian Avenue Festival, which Village were conducted in 1519. allowed visitors to taste over 12,000 For two consecutive days, the city’s typical dishes from Italy. sky shone with a firework show, first at As Leal Spengler stated, Havana the San Carlos de la Cabaña fortress and includes many other cities; it is many then at the area in front of the Capitolio things in only one place; it is its people, its Nacional. neighborhoods. It is an imaginative and In the latter, over 16,000 fireworks creative city. prolonged the sky party at the rhythm of Havana grows, lives, sings, dances, the music played by outstanding Cuban dreams. Throughout these 500 years, it pianist Frank Fernández, who worked shows news homes, schools, avenues, for months to get ready for the occasion health and recreational centers and tries together with the Canadian Fireworks FX to preserve itself as a restored, clean and Company. beautiful city. All the people in Cuba were jubilant For that reason, the 500th anniversary and the world also celebrated. Havana is just a starting point that opens a cycle became music and shone in its 500 years. for a new year for all the Cuban people. The Spanish Monarchs Felipe VI and As Eusebio Leal, the architect of the Letizia, joined the festivities and enjoyed outstanding restoration work conducted a sublime program of activities that in the city’s patrimony, stated: it would be included visits to emblematic places of irresponsible to stay here, to be satisfied the city’s Historical Center, declared a with the results of which we are proud UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1982. but which are not enough. It is imperative The borrowing of the Francisco de now to continue working, even more and Goya self-portrait from the Spanish a lot better. Prensa Latina Prensa PHOTOS: 8 CULTURE ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT [email protected] (THR is not responsible for any changes made by sponsoring organizations)

UPCOMING Havana Film Festival EVENTS (Dec 5-15)

Havana´s Eyeife International Festival Handicraft Fair (Electronic music, (Dec 6-22) Dec 11-15) THE CARIBBEAN 9 ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT The Challenges of Haiti’s Political Crisis By AnelíRUIZ

PORT AU PRINCE.- Haiti has been hitting the headlines in recent months, as it so happens when this country is struck by a natural disaster or sociopolitical crisis, this time of huge proportions. The small Caribbean country, with some 12 million inhabitants, which was a pioneer in getting rid of colonialism, is

living a process of popular mobilization. Camino Aldo Latina, Prensa PHOTOS: Experts are comparing it to the decline of the François and Jean Claude Duvalier unemployed and the national currency No matter how much international While different political forces, from dictatorship (1957-1986), when mass (gourde) has lost one third of its value attention is centered on the recent the most progressive to the extreme right, protests put an end to more than 30 years over the past year, thus cutting the case of corruption, considering the agree that the government is inefficient of an oppressive regime that assassinated purchasing power of millions of citizens. misappropriation of thousands of millions and has intensified social disparities and over 40,000 Haitians. Therefore, some experts consider of dollars funded by the Petrocaribe the country’s economic dependence, the “Never before in the 21st century have this just the tip of the iceberg of a deeper energy cooperation to enhance the road ahead is not very clear. Haitians been so aware that things must crisis that started with the first U.S. military country’s infrastructure and develop Almost all walks of life took to the streets change, ” Susy Castor, renowned intellectual occupation in 1915, deeply rooted in social programs, the combination of new during the recent crisis, with clear demands and historian, told The Havana Reporter. the dictatorship. The post-Duvalier era forms of colonialism and neoliberalism lie such as a change of system, the call for a Hundreds of thousands of people have has failed, despite the 13-year “veiled” beneath the Haitian crisis. government of national union and that those been holding massive antigovernment intervention of UN peacekeeping forces, Considered the poorest nation in the that embezzled the public treasure be tried. protests since September. More than the longest deployed by the international western hemisphere and the second most Students, textile workers, health a new government, these protestors organization and the only one in the region. unequal in the world, after South Africa, unionists, religious representatives, want to change the system that has Over the past 30 years, Haiti has had Haiti demonstrates signs of interference teachers and transportation workers been in place since the dictatorship was 15 presidents and social inequality has in its sovereignty, led by Washington, with joined the mobilization that had the overthrown, which has resulted in the intensified, with the richest 20 percent of a number of UN missions still deployed in country in suspense, with strong social country exhibiting one of the lowest the population controlling 64 percent of the country. demands that cannot be postponed. socioeconomic indicators in the region. the resources and the poorest 20 percent According to Camille Chalmers, researcher However, the political parties have According to official statistics, 60 with only one percent of resources. and political activist, the United States uses not yet agreed on steps forward. In the percent of the Haitian population lives Almost 80 percent of the teaching centers Haiti to sabotage regional unity. Due to its meantime, questions hang in the air about under the poverty line and nearly three are private, and the percentage is similar in proximity to the United States and its natural the national oligarchy now rejecting the million are affected by food insecurity. the healthcare system, often with prices that resources, the Caribbean as a transit area is a government and its consequences on Likewise, 70 percent of the population is are out of the reach of many citizens. major scene for world accumulation. Haitian society. 10 CULTURE Photo Book on Ballerina Alicia Alonso is Released

By MarthaSANCHEZ her professional career in Cuba and the United States, and her consecration as a leading dancer of international ballet. HAVANA.- When you think you have seen it all relating to During her childhood, some people affectionately Alicia Alonso, an outstanding Cuban and international called her Unga, due to her big, expressive black eyes artist, a new book with many unpublished photos of her that resembled the look of Hungarian gypsies, as stated extraordinary life and career comes out. in one of the captions. The Ocean Sur Publishing Company, a project of Another text explains how important it is for a ballet the Australian Ocean Press Publishing House for Latin dancer to concentrate before getting on the stage America, in collaboration with Prensa Latina News Agency and different factors that help to show the personality (PL), has published the book entitled ‘Alicia Alonso. Una of each character, including the costumes, makeup, mirada a su vida a través del lente’ (Alicia Alonso. hairdressing, and other accessories. A look at her life through the lens. Of course, demanding physical fitness is also essential

Through this photo book, the publishing house and Internet PHOTO: to train the body for the execution of ballet technique. Prensa Latina honor the 100th anniversary of the birth of According to Alicia, it was essential to master the Cuban prima ballerina, to take place in 2020. Alfaro, a graduate of the Havana’s Higher Institute technique and then, “to extend over it the illusion of “Many ballerinas say that they have hurt their of Design in 2009, is experienced in editorial design, ease.” backs trying to imitate this position,” stated Director of corporate identity and advertising campaigns, working Alfaro and the President of the Ocean Press-Ocean the Dance Museum Pedro Simón, about the photo on in the past for institutions such as the Cuban National Sur publishing companies, David Deutschmann, handed the front page while glancing through one of the first Ballet and the National Circus. She has also shown her Alonso the first copies of the printed book at her home printed copies. The famous photo illustrates Alonso work in individual and collective exhibitions in Serbia, in the capital, last July. performing the second act of the Swans Lake. Cyprus, Italy and Spain. Alonso unexpectedly passed away on October The book also holds rarer photos, many of which have One of the chapters in the book shows Alonso with 17, and soon after, the photo book honored her not been published before; of Alicia playing the role of world figures such as Pablo Picasso, Gene Kelly, Stevie legacy,launching on November 6 at the Alicia Alonso Carmen and Giselle; of when she was a child; of her first Wonder, Jimmy Carter, Margot Fonteyn, Galina Ulanova, Gran Teatro de La Habana. performances; of her endless work at the rehearsal halls; and Pablo Neruda, Fidel Castro, Maurice Bejart, Ivette In general, Ocean Sur offers readers the voices of with her second husband, Pedro Simón, in several countries. Chauviré and Jerome Robbins, among others. the revolutionary thought of Latin America. Inspired Graphic designer Yailín Alfaro was responsible for the The photographic narrative is complemented with by ethnic, cultural and genre diversity, the fight for compilation of photos that, in her opinion, aim to show texts by José Ramón Neyra, which provide detailed national sovereignty, and the anti-imperialist spirit, the the life and work of this great woman, who is admired all information on the ballerina’s childhood, her home entity spreads recognition of the social transformation over the world. environment, her first dance lessons, the beginning of projects taking place in Our America. Patria Grande Festival: Latin American Unity through Rock By ClaudiaHERNANDEZ Audiences also enjoyed Cuban rock in all of its manifestations. Members of the Mexican band Tijuana No commented their contentment with the great HAVANA.- The 6th edition of the Patria Grande Latin support Cuba gives to musical creation, saying it is less American and Caribbean Rock Festival brought together centralized than in their own country. bands from Panama, Chile, Costa Rica and Mexico, in an Members of the Panamanian band Los Rabanes stated event held in Havana from November 7-16. that they are “ambassadors of the Festival, for everything Considered the most notable international rock event Cuba does in favor of the Latin rock, which we consider a held in Cuba, the festival welcomed the Cuban bands Toques lifestyle. We are very passionate about this genre, which del Río, Los locos tristes, Kamankola, Collector, Tracks, Zeus, unites the traditions of our peoples. That’s why we are here: Némesis and Tendencia, among other new groups, proving this represents an end to the musical blockade against Cuba.” the rise of alternative music and rock on the island. The event fostered the exchange between the many Argentinean sociologist and general coordinator of the musicians, who found a space to share their creativity Patria Grande Festival, Sebastián Heredia, highlighted the and break barriers of hegemonic and hostile policies presence of Latin America’s leading rock groups,such as such as the blockade imposed by the United States on Aterciopelados, winners of the Latin Grammy Awards for Cuba, which prevents access to culture. the novel and authentic mixture of rock with Colombian The music festival stood out for the institutional folklore in the albums Gozo Poderoso and Oye. support of the Cuban Ministry of Culture, the Cuban Institute of Music, the Cuban Rock Agency and the Hermanos Saíz Association, an entity that leads the country’s young artistic avant-garde and dedicated the event to the 500th anniversary of Havana. The Patria Grande Festival was created years ago during the Romerías de Mayo World Artistic Youth Festival, which is held in the east of Cuba and since the very beginning, has promoted the hashtag #Nomásbloqueo in support of the vote at the United Nations against the U.S. blockade. The Festival raises the visibility of the strong rock movement, which coexists in Cuba with other popular genres such as salsa and timba. All genres continue strong in spite of all types of blockades,Communication Director at the Cuban Ministry of Culture Alexis Triana acknowledged. Patria Grande is the only international rock festival held in Cuba and is organized from resistant roots, to raise visibility of Latin America’s current rock trends, where throughout its history there has been an important female presence. Following its first edition, in 2014, the Patria Grande Latin American and Caribbean Rock Festival has gathered rock bands with solid careers in the region, such as rapper Ana Tijoux (Chile), (), Puya (Puerto Rico) and Carajo (. Prensa Latina, Aldo Camino Aldo Latina, Prensa PHOTOS: PHOTO FEATURE 11 A Special Botanical Garden in Cienfuegos Text & Photos: TinoMANUEL

HAVANA.- One of Cuba’s most important botanical Atkins, who settled in that area, initially intended gardens is the one located in the central-southern city to create a center for botanical research to improve of Cienfuegos. With a large variety of species, it’s the the different varieties of sugarcane in his possession to country’s oldest garden, which receives hundreds of increase productivity. local and international visitors daily. In 1901, under his sponsorship, the Harvard The 97-hectare botanical garden is 15 kilometers Botanical Station for Tropical Research and Sugar Cane from the city of Cienfuegos, which is also known as Perla Investigation was created. The area was made up of 4.5 del Sur (the Southern Pearl). hectares and the center’s specialists were primarily from The garden is located in the surrounding area of the the United States. ‘Pepito Tey’ sugarcane mill, on the road to Trinidad – a Over the following 20 years, the area was covered village of the neighboring Sancti Spíritus province. with trees, bushes and plant species brought to Cuba The collections of plants serve for research on the from different countries. improvement of cultivations and favor exports to other In 1919, the sugarcane owner leased the countries. The site was declared a National Monument management of the garden to the Harvard University on October 20, 1989. and representatives of that institution ran the center Founded in 1901, it is the only of its type in Latin until 1960. America and other regions of the world. From that moment on, the important botanical The Cienfuegos Botanical Garden was founded by garden joined the Ministry of Industries and the Marta U.S. businessman Edwin F Atkins, who at the end of the Abreu University, in the former province of Las Villas. 19th century bought the so-called ‘Soledad del Muerto’ At present, the garden is associated to the Ministry of sugarcane factory. Sciences, Technology and Environment. 12 LATIN AMERICA Argentina Voted for Change By CarmenESQUIVEL

HAVANA.- Latin America, a region marked by neoliberal models that have plunged several countries into crisis, witnessed the victory of the Frente de Todos (FDT) wing at the presidential elections held in Argentina, serving as a breath of fresh air and new hope for progressive movements. At the elections held on October 27, the FDT - represented by Alberto and Cristina Fernández – achieved victory with 48.24 percent of the votes over President - representative of the wing who won 40.28 percent. According to electoral law, in order to be elected president, a candidate must reach at least 45 percent of the

votes or 40 percent plus a 10-point difference over second Internet PHOTO: place. The results showed the hegemony of the FDT nationwide, International Monetary Fund in order to receive a 57-billion- and ethical contract with Argentineans about the country especially in the province of , where former dollar loan resulted in the price hike of basic services, such as we must build,” he said. Minister of Economy Axel Kicillof was elected Governor with transportation, electricity and water. According to Argentinean political expert Atilio Borón, 52.28 percent – 14 points more than María Eugenia Vidal, “We will again build the egalitarian and supportive the Frente de Todos victory is important and steers clear of who was running for reelection. Argentina we all want,” newly-elect president said in his the neoliberal model, which is under crisis. ‘’ also achieved a resounding victory in the inaugural speech, who promised to rebuild everything that “Chile is an example of that model’s failure. Now we will provinces of Santiago del Estero, Formosa, Catamarca, La was destroyed in the last four years. see the results of the changes we are all looking forward to Rioja, Jujuy, Corrientes, Misiones and Chaco, many of which Fernández will receive an economy that has gone in Argentina,” he said. have been dealing with extreme poverty. into recession, without access to financing, with one of Another Argentinean Analyst and Professor of History Two conflicting models were at stake in those elections: the highest inflation rates in the world, with a devaluated Leandro Morgenfeld, believes that Macri’s defeat and the the continuity of neoliberalism under Macri’s leadership and currency and a debt pending renegotiation. popular uprisings taking place in countries such as Chile and Fernández’s bet for development and social inclusion, with The government that will come to power next December Ecuador are marking the failure of the neoliberal model; the emphasis on the most vulnerable sectors. 10 will have to face huge challenges, like curbing the one that promotes the reduction of public expenses and For a day characterized by a heavy poll, the Argentineans inflation rate; slowing down the devaluation of the peso and intervention of State in the economy to favor the private pledged their commitment to change, after four years the flow of capital abroad; creating jobs, and rescheduling sector. bearing a government in which poverty and unemployment the country’s debt. Latin America is still the most unequal region in the reached alarming rates, the national currency (the peso) Fernández promised to improve the quality of education world and this type of economic policy intensifies those fell and debt went up to 58 percent of the Gross Domestic and healthcare in the country and to take 5 million out of inequalities, added Morgenfeld. Product (GDP). poverty. He also criticized the adjustment policies agreed upon The mishandling of the economy and the fact that “From now on, all we have to do is meet our with the IMF in a context characterized by recession and the the government followed the formulas imposed by the commitments,” because “every commitment made is a moral fall of many of the region’s economies. ECONOMY 13 The Fundamentals of Electricity Production from Sugarcane in Cuba

By RobertoSALOMON The modernization and automation of sugarcane mills and the generation of electricity from both sugar cane and biomass also stand out in the program’s HAVANA.- Deriving energy from sugarcane is a priority strategies, always ensuring product quality and for agricultural industry in many parts of the world, environmental protection. including Cuba. The technology used to produce sugarcane and Sugarcane production in Cuba plays a significant role transport it during the 150-day-harvest is a crucial in food security and contributes to the export of sucrose, element of the program, Hernández noted. alcohol and other short-term cycle products. It also replaces the import of fossil fuel, animal fodder and natural products. CONTRIBUTION OF FORESTRY According to Bárbara Hernández, Director of the Power Hernández told The Havana Reporter that as part of Generation Department of Azcuba Group, the 934,000 the agricultural plan, 89,230 hectares of land will be hectares of sugarcane fields and 56 sugarcane mills operating mechanically prepared as nurseries with genetically in the country are the foundation of local production. chosen seeds. Equipped with highly-qualified personnel, these The characteristics that distinguish the plant species factories are self-sufficient in the energy needed for their to be used by the Forestry Group are: rapid growth, the industrial processes, and they sell byproducts to Unión capacity to reproduce again (asexually or by seeds), high Eléctrica Electricity Company. biomass production per hectare, and short rotation The Director recently spoke at an event on the cycles. These plants include the bamboo, acacia, diversification of the sector, where she highlighted that eucalyptus, pine nuts and tamarind. linking the renewable energy and efficiency-oriented According to the specialist, of the 19 bioelectrical projects to the national industry ensures its recovery. plants approved in the program, 17 are prioritized with a forest area capable of generating electricity for up to SUGARCANE: AN INCOMPARABLE BIOMASS 300 days annually (accounting for the sugarcane harvest According to Hernández, sugarcane, which is plus the time in between harvests). fundamental in agricultural industry, is one of the plants Additionally, the program aims at a positive that most efficiently converts solar energy into biomass, environmental impact, leveling soils to avoid hence its nickname, “the green oil well.” flooding. The raw material is used to produce sugar and its In this regard, Hernández said that when handled biomass to generate vapor and electricity. sustainably, the sugarcane field serves as a carbon The biomass comes in the form of bagasse (the drainage, since the straw resulting from the harvest pulpy residue resulting from the extraction of juice from reduces soil respiration and the organic matter takes sugarcane) and straw. longer to decompose, allowing the fixation of CO2 in

The ambitious Cuban agricultural plan includes the the soil. Internet PHOTOS: construction of 17 wide-capacity bioelectrical plants Hernández further explained that a hectare of with high-pressure cogeneration, expected to produce sugarcane can eliminate 60 tons of carbon through expected to begin generating electricity during the 14 percent of the county’s renewable energy by 2030. photosynthesis. The bioelectrical plant near the Ciro upcoming sugarcane harvest. It also hopes to encourage the Agroforestry Group to Redondo agro-industrial complex (about 450 kilometers Its construction costs have been estimated at $187 increase energy forestry, its crop and transportation. east of Havana) is furthest along in construction and million and will produce 390 GWh per year. 14 ECONOMY Cuba Announces Nearly 500 Foreign Investment Projects

By IvetteFERNANDEZ Of the total number of projects contained in the business opportunity portfolio, 47 are located at the Mariel HAVANA.- With 460 projects on display, Special Development Zone, where there the Cuban portfolio of foreign investment are seven companies with 100 percent opportunities exhibits a committed Cuban capital, 29 companies with foreign capital in different fields worth nearly $12 capital, two international economic billion, mainly in tourism, oil prospecting, associations and 12 joint ventures. and food. According to ZEDM General Director When the Cuban Minister of Foreign Ana Teresa Igarza, the investment at these Trade and Investment, Rodrigo Malmierca, entities totals $2.3 billion from 21 countries made the announcement, he confirmed and eleven multinational partnerships. that the current portfolio involves the It was also revealed during FIHAV that implementation of projects worth $174 the number of Spanish exports to Cuba million more than the previous year. has increased. During one of the sessions of the 37th The counselor-delegate with the ICEX International Trade Fair of Havana (FIHAV España company, María Peña, said that 2019) held November 4-8, the Minister Spanish sales to Cuba have increased noted that since the Foreign Investment over 10 percent on a year-on-year basis. Minister Malmierca Law took effect in April 2014, a total of This, she noted, proves the Spanish 29 reinvestments and 50 businesses company’s commitment to the Cuban have been approved at the Mariel Special market, when 110 Spanish entities Development Zone (ZEDM), as well as attended the fair, representing sectors of 149 outside that site. the agricultural industry, hotel supplies, This, he said, represents a total construction and logistics. committed capital exceeding $8 billion, In addition, 13 percent more Spanish from 35 countries. companies are exporting to Cuba (about From October 2018 to October 2019, 25 3,500) and trade with the island is nine businesses were approved in Cuba, worth percent higher than with the rest of the over $1.7 billion in sectors such as industry, world. food, agroforestry and renewable energy. Other countries with high

Malmierca stressed that Cuba is highly representation at the fair were Italy and Internet Latina, Prensa PHOTOS: favors foreign investment flow,investors Vietnam, and nine agreements were enjoy full legal securities and there is a signed with Spain, Russia and Mexico ratified their commitment to the The recent edition of Cuba’s largest trade strong commitment to support those during an investment meeting. Cuban market and are confident that fair was attended by businesspeople from interested in collaborating on new Countries such as Mexico, the their investors will be offered all the over 60 countries, 14 delegations headed by projects. United Kingdom and China also security needed. high officials and 360 Cuban companies.

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which includes a world senior medalist gold medals, 28 silver and 48 bronze. Internet PHOTOS: Marabana: Running Through Havana in the Rain By JhonahDIAZ During this year’s Marabana, runners from the United A native of the Santiago de Cuba province, Castillo States, Mexico, Colombia, France, Spain, Australia, outperformed her fellow national Liurys Figueredo Canada, China, Japan, Germany, Ecuador, Nigeria, (3:05.05)and Italian Gabriele Toffolo (3:09.42), who took HAVANA.- November, a month in which there are ample Norway, Thailand, Denmark, India, South Korea,and everyone by surprise after winning the bronze medal. reasons to celebrate, welcomed thousands of runners to Indonesia, among others, flooded Cuba with their On the other hand, Reyes reigned over the other the decorated streets of Havana during the 33rd edition dedication to the sport. male competitors with a time of 2:37.22, ahead of other of Cuba’s biggest marathon race. Director of the Marabana-Maracuba project Carlos national athletes Alexis Machado (2:42.50) and Yoel During the nonstop rain of November 10, Marabana kept Gattorno highlighted that 400 U.S. runners came to Cuba Ricardo (2:45.00), trailing the 2018 finish by Cuban Henry its place as one of the country’s most important recreational “in spite of the restrictions imposed by their government, Jaen (2:33.59). events, hosting national and international athletes. because they see the importance of bringing our people French Normand Elodie took people by surprise after In a celebratory atmosphere, 5,858 runners set off closer together.” winning the half marathon with a time of 1:19.08, ahead from Parque Central on Prado Avenue to run along the The number of foreign visitors proved “the of locals Arletis Thaureaux (1:20.30) and Yumisleydis central streets of Havana. internationalization of an event that continues to grow Mestre (1:21.03). Participants covered ground around the elegant city and receive global attention,” the official added. The 21.097 km men’s race was won by a Cuban, that soon after celebrated its 500th anniversary. About As to be expected, the race was part of the activities Yuleidys La O (1:09.25), while his local competitors 1,449 foreign runners dignified the event that continues scheduled in Havana to celebrate the 500th years of the Dairán Suárez (1:10.39) and Francisco Rodney (1:10.45) to receive a high number of international participants Marvelous City. achieved the silver and bronze medals, respectively. throughout the years. “Running in Cuba was great: the waves breaking on Marabana realized another year of success and is Historically, the 1982 Central American and Caribbean the Malecón, the fresh rain, the sun rising and the public now getting ready for its 34th edition, to take place Games and the 1991 Pan-American Games have hosted cheering; it was something too beautiful to describe,” said on November 22, 2020. On that day, other stories will the highest number of runners from the region. For this Jorge Trejo, who traveled from Mexico to be part of the race. emerge and old and new friends from all over the world reason, Marabana met its goal: strengthening ties and After crossing the finish line, Uruguayan Carmen will meet again to tour the magical combination of proving the many benefits of running. Mattos (a native of Montevideo who was born in 1953) colonial and modern Havana. said, “Running all 10 kilometers was a great joy. I am really pleased. My appreciation goes to the Cuban people for their welcome, for the organization and its passion. I am deeply moved and pleased.” Yuvisleivis Castillo and Alien Reyes, both Cubans, took long strides across the finish line to place first in the women and men modalities, respectively, of the 42.195 km race. Castillo, who placed 15th in the Lima 2019 Pan-American Games, stopped the clock at 2:53.05 hours. “I couldn’t sleep all night,” said the winner after crossing the finishing line. “This competition was special because of the Havana’s anniversary and I didn’t want to come up short,” she added. Prensa Latina, José Tito Meriño Tito José Latina, Prensa PHOTOS: 16