THE © YEAR VI Nº 8 APR, 20 2017 HAVANA, CUBA avana eporter ISSN 2224-5707 YOUR SOURCE OF NEWS & MORE H R Price: A Bimonthly Newspaper of the Prensa Latina News Agency 1.00 CUC, 1.00 USD, 1.20 CAN

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Sustainable Solutions to Drought

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Cuba Health & Culture Politics UNIDF Seeks Funds Science Buena Fe Progressive for Projects Cubagua 2017: All Beat Moreno Wins in Cuba about Water the Odds Ecuadorian P.3 P. 5 P. 10 Presidency P. 14 2

Cosmetic Surgery Program

Cuba features a national surgery network and access to minimum access technique, so it’s ranked among the most outstanding countries in these procedures in the region. With 119 service facilities distributed throughout the national territory, this network undergoes a permanent revitalization and modernization process aimed at developing each of the surgical specialties, as part of a policy to foster minimum access techniques on the Island. Cuba offers attractive options in this field, not only targeting beauty and self-satisfaction based on beauty patterns, but as ways to fix physical problems or psychological disorders as a result of the volume and body shape. The experience gathered by the country’s medical staffs, seriousness in these practices and postoperative processes that combine recovery and vacation programs on the Island, stand out as an excellent alternative.

www.smcsalud.cu CUBA 3 Victory for Socialism at “Bay of Pigs” By ErnestoVERA

It only took three days and two nights to thwart the Combat commenced in earnest the following day mercenary invasion at Giron Beach in 1961, until then and concluded on April 19 with the first great defeat of the White House and CIA’s most serious endeavor to U.S. imperialism in the Americas. defeat the newborn Cuban Revolution. The defeat of the mercenary assault fueled Ordered initially by President Eisenhower, more than Washington‘s hostility, expressed since the first 1,500 CIA and Pentagon trained, armed and equipped revolutionary laws had been proclaimed and manifest in mercenaries, comprising five infantry battalions and numerous covert operations, sabotage and assassination one paratrooper battalion directly supported by the U.S. attempts on the Cuban leadership. Army, participated in the failed military operation. The shameful defeat in record time exacerbated Their objective was to occupy a beachhead and set up U.S. endeavors to asphyxiate the Cuban economy and a provisional government that would seek United States minimize popular support for the socialist project. and the Organization of American States recognition Hence, President John F. Kennedy, a perpetuator of and intervention. the warmongering endeavor, promulgated the blockade Prior to the disembarkation in the south-central- laws in 1962. region of Cuba, eight B-26 bombers with false Cuban The economic, financial and commercial blockade Revolutionary Air Force markings simultaneously was intensified by degrees to develop an extraterritorial attacked the San Antonio de los Baños air base, character when Cuba had lost support following with Havana´s Ciudad Libertad runway and the Santiago de the collapse of the socialist block in the 1990s. Cuba airport. The Cuban socialist model had to then adapt to It was when the Cuban people gathered to pay their the challenging new circumstances and overcome a respects to the victims of the April 16, 1961 attack, that profound period of crisis that still affects the country. their Commander in Chief Fidel Castro, proclaimed the Fifty six years after the resounding victory at socialist character of the Cuban Revolution. Playa Giron and the proclamation of the Revolution’s Ever since, the Rebel Army, the Managua tank socialist character, Cuba is engaged in another major, battalion, the workers’, students’ and farmers’ militias important and complex battle for the realization of a and the Revolutionary Air Force have been prepared to sustainable social and economic model, appropriate defend the Socialist Revolution. in the current context. UNIDF Seeks Funds for Projects in Cuba By Maria JuliaMAYORAL

The UN Industrial Development Fund (UNIDF) has applied plant in Nuevitas, of an agricultural tool factory in the funding for 16 projects in Cuba for the promotion of eastern province of Holguín and with the national music sustainable and inclusive economic growth, the agency‘s industry, he added. coordinator here, Fidel Domenech, has said. The Engineering and Chemical Research Center, the The UN official told The Havana Reporter that the Center for the Development of Agricultural Machineries 2016-2020 cooperation framework program is raising 50 and the Revolución de Octubre Enterprise of Nuevitas, million Euros for the projects, three of which are underway Camagüey are collaborating on the fertilizer plant works. since September 2016. One of its principal objectives is to synergize He revealed during the recent Cubagua 2017 production with the promotion of new fertilization International Convention that a total of $4.8m -- donated methods intended to both better exploit the scientific through cooperation agencies from different countries -- potential of the sector and to replace imports. had been assigned to these three projects. He highlighted that the 16 projected initiatives include During the event, Domenech talked about UNIDF the creation of an industrial ecological farm in Havana’s initiatives that help Cuban industry, including the Cotorro municipality, shrimp farming and aquiculture sugarcane and food industries, use water in more efficient sector developments and the promotion of renewable and sustainable ways. energy use. He told THR that the three projects already being In addition to helping Cuba implement the projects, implemented are advancing well and include training UNIDF may also contribute to investments in key sectors. seminars led by international experts. Hilda Morales, the director of Industrial and José Tito Meriño PHOTO: He explained that UNIDF is committed to helping Technological Policy at Cuba’s Industry Ministry, Relations are based on three key elements: Cuba design sustainable economic and environmental highlighted that the December 2015 agreed 2016-2020 enhancing the institutional and business environment, industrial development policies and strategies. framework is crucial to the consolidation of the alliance increasing industrial competitiveness and the The projects relate to modernization of a fertilizer between both parties. promotion of investments.

A Weekly Newspaper of the Prensa Latina News Agency SOCIETY.HEALTH & SCIENCE.POLITICS.CULTURE THE YOUR SOURCE OF NEWS & MORE ENTERTAINMENT.PHOTO FEATURE.ECONOMY HavanaReporter SPORTS.AND MORE President: Luis Enrique González. Graphic Designers: Laura Reyes. Publisher: Agencia Informativa Latinoamericana, Information Vice President: Hector Miranda. Chief Graphic Editor: Alfredo G. Pierrat Prensa Latina, S.A. Editorial Vice President: Maitté Marrero Canda. Advertising: Laura Claro Calle E, esq. 19 No. 454, Vedado, La Habana-4, Cuba. Chief Editor: Ilsa Rodríguez. Circulation: Commercial Department. Telephone: (53)7838-3496 / 7832-3578 Fax: (53)7833-3068 Translation: Dayamí Interián/ Sean J. Clancy/Yanely Interián Printing: Imprenta Federico Engels. E-mail: [email protected] 4 CUBA Cuba’s Youthful Revolution By NuriemDE ARMAS

Cuba’s Revolution continues to be a Morfa told of more than 33,000 local project that places her young people headquarters and the organization’s at the very heart of the economic welcome of more than 60,000 new and social changes underway in their members in 2016. country and as protagonists of the She stressed that Cuba younger revolutionary process that commenced generations are aware of their role in in January 1959. society, as indicated by the large number At a recent press conference, Susely of young Cubans that contribute to their Morfa, general secretary of Cuba´s homeland’s development in different Young Communist League (UJC) economic and social fields. described the role played by Cuba’s During a nationwide tour, the UJC youth as a continuation rather than leadership reiterated that more than 65 ¨relay, ¨ that assures the consolidation percent of the productive workforce in of the Revolution. some industries is young. She stated the UJC has a Official statistics reveal that there responsibility to this population sector, are almost three million Cubans in the be they members or otherwise. 15-34 age group. Working in conjunction with Morfa emphasized the UJC’s ministries, statutory institutions and commitment to the reinforcement of other relevant government entities a number of youth projects, such as to promote policies that prioritize Pérez Jorge PHOTO: those known as the historic routes, Cuba´s younger generation, is one of to the Association of Young Rebels, April 4 marked the 55th anniversary which facilitate learning about the political group´s main objectives, a Commander Ernesto Che Guevara of the founding of Cuba’s Communist historical events in natural settings she explained. initiative and the increasing integration Party´s youth organization, which and summer camps that include The origins of the UJC date back of Cuba’s youth movement. presently has 300,752 members. workshops and debates. Skies Look Bright For Cuba‘s Tourism Industry By FranciscoMENÉNDEZ PHOTO: Vladimir Molina PHOTO:

directors and top-level tourism experts interested in the development of the Cuban tourism industry would participate in the event. García noted that the SAHIC is celebrating its 10th anniversary in charge of hotel and small, middle and large tourism project investments. He said that the May meeting represents a great opportunity for Cuba, due to the attendance of top industry executives principally from the United States, but also from Latin America, Europe, the Middle East and Asia. Arturo Garcia, both a founder and the President of the Latin The President of the WorldTravel and Tourism Council American Hotel and Tourism Investment Conferences (WTTC) David Scowsill is expected to participate. (SAHIC), has said tourism is set to increase significantly Cuba has taken part in previous SAHIC meetings in in the near future and predicted that Cuba could soon Lima, Peru (2015) and Guayaquil, Ecuador (2016). become Latin America’s second most popular destination. Also during the month of May in the eastern Announcing that Havana will host the SAHIC’s annual province of Holguin, the island will host the 37th meeting in May, Garcia explained that the role of foreign International Tourism Fair, the largest of its kind in Cuba investment in Cuba’s tourism industry will be crucial in the and the Caribbean. country’s rise to second place. Cuba´s Deputy Tourism Minister Luis Miguel Díaz The island could welcome at least 12 million visitors and general development director at the Cuban annually to become the second largest tourist destination Tourism Ministry José R. Daniel Alonso were also at the Vladimir Molina PHOTO: in the region after Mexico. press conference. relationships and the advancement of new proposals. At a press conference in Havana´s Hotel Meliá Cohiba, Experts noted that Cuba had recently identified 110 Issues such as the restoration and expansion of the where the 2017 SAHIC meeting will be held on May 15 new foreign investment opportunities which means that hotel network and the development of theme parks and and 16, he explained that some 250 hotel managers, SAHIC forum will provide a space for the building of new golfing facilities are to form part the meeting´s agenda. HEALTH & SCIENCE 5 Cubagua 2017: All about Water By NicholasVALDES

Although over three quarters of the Earth’s surface is covered by water, just 3% is suitable for human consumption. The figure, however, may decline because of the effects of climate change and excessive exploitation of water resources by mankind. This life essential element, severely

limited for some of our planet’s inhabitants, Pérez Jorge PHOTOs: was the topic of a four-day event in Havana management representatives. year that “Cuba had provided a space for that brought over 200 delegates from 17 The French official explained that he cooperation. By supporting each other countries together. Comprehensive Use of Water; the II Technical- “had the opportunity to participate in the in the field of technology, we have had Debates and exchanges about water, its Commercial Symposium and the I Workshop first edition and without a doubt, there great successes with processes such as the use, reuse and management formed core on the Comprehensive Management of were many more interventions by foreign cleaning of rivers with low and very low parts of the 2017 II International Cubagua Hydrographical Basins. delegates during this second convention. water levels and we can now offer technical Convention at Havana’s Conference Centre The latter was held on the occasion of This facilitated more in-depth analysis, and financial assistance to other Latin and the Pabexpo Showground. the 20th anniversary of the National and experience sharing, problem solving and American countries”. Participating countries including , Territorial Councils on Hydrographical Basins. debates about potential solutions to the Water problems go beyond so-called Ireland, , , , Denmark, Amongst the distinguished lecturers consequences of climate change and world Third World countries and every region has Mexico, , , Spain and the that contributed to the workshop were population growth”. difficulties dealing with water preservation United States, were complimented by 57 François Donzier, General Manager of the Wang Hong, the Chinese Water Ministry‘s and world biodiversity related issues. international companies and a number International Water Office and Secretary Chief Engineer, commented that the event These concern the next and future United Nations agencies. General of the International Network of had become an important platform for generations and need to be addressed Cubagua 2017 was a „mega-event“ Basin Organizations (INBO). exchanges and understandings between so solutions that not only suit the comprising four simultaneous theoretical Interviewed by The Havana Reporter, the Asian giant and Latin America. characteristics of each individual country, programs: the XIII International Hydraulics Donzier told how Cubagua 2017 had been Hong stated during the opening session but that also resolve the needs of all Engineering Congress; the IX Seminar on the well received by international water resource of the convention, dedicated to China this humanity, can be found. Talking about Depression By Ana LauraARBESÚ

‘Talk about depression to take a step for condition is also associated with people life’, was the slogan for this years annual aging, a phenomenon that has increased World Health Day on April 7, celebrated in the country over the last 50 years. nationwide in Cuba with a varied program He explained that there are several of activities. projects in place on the island, such Events included talks, film screenings, as the network of Older Adult Clubs concerts, photo exhibitions and the that promote social contacts between distribution of posters about the main people of retirement age – which risk factors that can cause depression. according to the Cuban labor law is 60 Cristian Morales, the PAHO/WHO years of age for women and 65 for men. representative in Cuba, referred to the Fernández added that “the prevalence of the condition that affects initiative to bring senior citizens in the 300 million people worldwide, 50 millions community together not only aims to of whom are in Latin America. promote physical exercise, but also “Directly or indirectly, depression enhanced socialization and the creating affects, our children, our parents, our of spaces for interaction.” siblings, our grandparents, everyone,” World Health Day, established in 1950 she said. and celebrated on April 7, is dedicated to Morales told The Havana Reporter a different condition every year. that depression “causes anxiety and relations, work and study and can affect Alberto Fernández, Head of the In 2015, it focused on food health, debilitation to the point that it seriously everyone and every part of life, including Senior Adult Program, also told this and last year on the prevention of impacts on everyday life activities, social the economy”. newspaper that press that Cuba, the diabetes. 6 SPORTS

require better and more modern preparation. “If I was to talk here about all the problems facing Cuban Cuban baseball, I would be talking for a very long time,” he said. Martí also highlighted that Cuba’s pitching is not up to Baseball Classic standard - something fans were reminded of by the fact that no pitcher had a Baseball great tournament. The team reached the second round after losing to Japan and defeating China and Australia, in that order - two of the weakest teams in the tournament. Strikes Out But in the second round, the Cubans were truly By YasielCANCIO disappointing. They lost all their matches against Japan, Israel - a team composed of US players - and the Netherlands - the dark horse of the Classic. It was the Dutch team that also eliminated the Cubans in the 2013 edition four years ago, but on this occasion the result was beyond frustrating. In the cruelest possible way, the Dutch buried Cubans‘ IV Baseball Classic dreams under a humiliating 14-1 knock-out in 7 innings that included 4 home-runs and a high percentage of powerful hits. A lackluster performance by the Cuban team at the Although some still insist on reiterating that the

recent IV World Baseball Classic has highlighted Courtesy of Cubadebate PHOTO: Cuban team fulfilled its primary objective of qualifying serious problems and major deficiencies in the This was what ultimately doomed them to a for the second round, it is no secret that baseball in nation’s baseball scene. certain demise from the very moment the “Play Ball” Cuba is not in good health: the team has not won a In spite of achieving their primary objective of call was heard. major tournament for years now and the national qualifying for the tournament’s second round, the “A number of problems must be solved soon if we squad has become increasingly weaker. Caribbean team’s mediocre performances, poor want to raise the level of baseball in Cuba,” manager The Cuban team has only once qualified to a technical display and lack of tactical ability, greatly Carlos Martí said having been eliminated from the IV World Baseball Classic semi-final in 2006, when the disappointed both its home and foreign fans. WBC in a humiliating 1-14 defeat by Holland. tournament was founded. Almost every pitcher played poorly, speeds He acknowledged that, in addition to solving It has always since been knocked out at the consistently fell below 90 mph and a terrible command several defensive details, a lot must be done in order second phase of the tournament, although this year’s of pitches resulted in a constant concession of basses to improve the Island’s baseball, which is suffering elimination will be remembered as the most shameful on ball. from an array of technical problems and pitchers that in Cuban baseball’s recent history. Cuban Fencer on Form By AlfredoBOADA

Latin America’s best épée fencer, Cuban the 16 best at the Grand Prix, by taking Yunior Reytor, has been ranked among the 11th place. 16 best in the world following the Budapest The promising Cuban fencer had faced Grand Prix. even stronger opposition at the Vancouver Having participated alongside 275 World Cup, where he won the silver medal. competitors from over 50 countries in He beat fencers there such as world the tournament in the Hungarian capital, champion Massaru Yamada, from Japan, Reytor climbed four positions in the world whom Reytor defeated 15 to 14. men’s épée ranking and to 14th in the In order to reach the semi final stage world – in spite of his limited participation of the event, he also defeated Italian in international events. Matteo Tagliariol, the 2008 Olympic Winner of the 2016 Pan-American champion by 15 points to 8. Championship in Panama and Soon after that resounding success in presently ranked number one in Latin Canada, Reytor told the press that “at that America, Reytor was seeded in the first moment, I felt I capable of doing something round in Budapest tournament and then great and went on to take the silver medal.” won in the 64-fencer round by defeating “That experience taught me that, with Swiss Karl Harmenberg 15-8. patience and hard work. I can compete at In the group of 32, he beat the Israeli that level. Sometimes we lack resources, but Yuval Shalom Freilich 32-15. one must always go on and try to overcome In the round comprising the 16 challenges,” the Cuban fencer added. best, the Cuban lost 15-8 to France’s – Reytor’s current form is indicative of Guadeloupian Yannick Borel - number two progress for Cuban fencing, which hopes in the International Fencing Federation to recover former glories, such as when rankings, European champion and world the country won 2 silver and 3 bronze team champion. medals at the Barcelona 1992 and Sydney Courtesy of juventud rebelde Courtesy of juventud PHOTO: The Cuban player struggled to defeat 2000 Olympics or the Olympic success of the French two-time World Cup silver 2016 and Canada 2017. best on the continent. outstanding Cuban fencers Ramón Font medalist (Germany 2015 and 2017) and In the latter last February, Reytor took In spite of the Budapest result, Reytor and Manuel Dionisio Díaz at the beginning three-time bronze, in Italy 2012, Argentina the silver medal to consolidate his place as achieved his target of finishing amongst of the 20th century. SPOTLIGHT ON 7 SPOTLIGHT ON The Delights of the National Botanical Garden By CiroBIANCHI ROSS

Visitors to Cuba’s National green lung. paths conducive to meditation Botanical Garden are often About 25 km south of and reflection. left almost speechless by the Havana, the Garden covers a 6 The archaic forest enchants unexpected and astounding km2 area. people and the pavilions beauty they encounter within. It has a 35 km long internal for shady species are most Words can simply seem network of roads and seems to impressive. inadequate to communicate be worlds away from the noise, Begonias stand out for the wonder and awe inspired pollution and daily trials and their elegant foliage and in part by more than 500 tribulations of busy city life. Curujey leaves offer thirst species of orchid and a It’s an ideal place to seek quench waters. thousand varieties of cactus. solace, relaxation and learning. The insectivorous The National Botanical The Japanese Garden, one Nepenthes plant always Garden has over 140 thousand of the most attractive and attracts visitor attention. species of plants from all charming elements of the The wonders and over the world and provides Garden, reflects the very best environmental integrity of the temporary shelter to many of this wonderful refuge. National Botanical Garden are thousands of migratory birds. Created by an architect from perfectly complemented by In conjunction with Parque Japan, it communicates the the “El Bambú” eco-restaurant. Lenin, the National Zoo, the typical charm and serenity that The restaurant -- not Expo Cuba complex, the other gardens of this type do. exclusively vegetarian --

Havana Forest and the Río It has the traditional promotes an understanding of Rodríguez Adriana PHOTOs: Cristal river, the Botanical bonsais, a pond of exotic the virtues of ecological cuisine and textured buffet meal and a visitors with a discerning and Garden forms part of the city’s fishes, bridges, arbors and with a varied aromatic, colorful menu that offers true treats for cultured palate. Hemingway Club’s 25th Anniversary BY ROBERTO F. CAMPOS

The Ernest Hemingway International Yacht Club, Cuba’s than 100 yacht clubs in Cuba, 39 most prominent recreational out of which were in the capital. sailing event promoter and In February, the country of 18 events have been in the Tampa-Havana regatta Havana’s International Club institution, will host a series of hosted the 6 day long St. planned as part of this year’s between May 18th and 25th. held the first ever Hemingway activities this year to mark its Petersburg-Havana race, celebrations, which will He also confirmed that the Marlin Fishing Tournament 25th anniversary. in which 90 sailboats involve 500 boats and more French Rochelle Club plans in 1950, after Commodore Anniversary celebrations for participated. than 2,000 sailors, mostly from to hold an oceanic regatta in Rafael Pozo and other club the Club founded on May 21, Commodore José Miguel the United States. 2018, with a 10 day Atlantic officials convinced the prize 1992, commenced in January Díaz Escrich, head of the The Commodore, one ocean crossing. winning novelist to oversee with the República de la Concha Hemingway Yacht Club since of only a select few Latin The Hemingway Club is the competition that carried regatta, followed a few days later its foundation, told The American officials to have been a non-governmental and a his name. by the Torreón de La Chorrera Havana Reporter that club granted multiple honorary not for profit organization, In 1960, the competition regatta, an event during which membership has grown from club memberships all around founded in 1992 at Havana’s was suspended due to tensions 29 yachts undertook the two-lap an initial 28 members from 10 the world, highlighted that for Hemingway Marina, previously and between the US and Cuba, circuit from Havana‘s El Morro countries to the present 2,800 the first time in the history of called the Barlovento but it was reconvened 1992, Castle to the mouth of the members from 73 countries. his club, a Cuban yacht crewed During the first half of the following the foundation of Almendares River. He explained that a total by Cuban sailors will compete 20th century, there were more the Hemingway Yacht Club. 8 ENTERTAINMENT& LISTINGS

TEATHERTEATHER

*Note: theater companies are in parentheses.

Centro Hispano Americano de Cultura (Spanish- (THR is not responsible for any changes made by sponsoring organizations) American Culture Center) GETTINGMuseo Nacional de Bellas AROUND By MaylínZALDIVAR MUSEUMS AND [email protected] Artes (National Fine Art MUSEUMSGALLERIES AND GALLERIES. Museum) Edificio de Arte Cubano. Fri. RECOMMENDS Museo de Artes Apr. 21 (4pm): Opening of the • Clarinet Decorativas (Decorative Art exhibit ¨Juego de ángeles¨ Party at Museum) (Angels’ Game) dedicated to Basílica artist Eugenio Rodríguez. Menor de San Calle 17 e/ D y E, Vedado. Tel: 7 Francisco de 832-0924. Hasta Jun. 30 (10 am): NIGHTCLUBS & Asís Temporary exhibition “95 Years of Life” dedicated to Dulce María NIGHTCLUBSCABARETS & CABARETS MUSIC MUSIC Casa del Alba Cultural Loynáz. (ALBA Culture House) Casa de la Música de Basílica Menor de San Fábrica de Arte Cubano Miramar Francisco de Asís (FAC)

Calle Malecón e/ Prado y Capdevila, Centro Habana, Ciudad de La Habana. Tel: 7860-6282. Apr. Thu 20 y 27, (6:00 p.m.): ¨La Cabalgata del Monstruo¨ (The Monster´s Ride).

Ludi Teatro. Calle I e/ 9 y 11. Vedado. Fri. Apr. 21, 28, Sat. 22, 29 (8:30 pm) and Sun. 23, 30 (5 pm): “Nos vemos” (See You!).

Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes (National Fine Arts Museum)

Ave. 20 No. 3308 esq. a 35, Miramar, La Habana, Cuba. Tel: 7 204 0447.Apr. Wed.26, (11:00 Calle Linea e/ C y D, Vedado. Tel: p.m): Adalberto Alvarez y su Son 7833 2151 Calle 26 entre 11 y 13, Vedado. band (salsa). Thu. Apr. 20, (6:00 p.m): Club Tel: 7 838-2260. Personal Calle Oficios \ Amargura y ¨Canto de Todos¨ with Vicente exhibition by María Laura Teatro Mariana Grajales Churruca, Habana Vieja. Tel: 7 Feliú and guests. García (dresses and handmade 862-9683. Apr. Thu, 20. (6:00 objects). p.m): Clarinet Party at San Felipe Museo de Artes Neri concert hall. Decorativas (Decorative Art Vitrina de Valonia. Museum) Museo de Artes Sat. 22, Apr. (3:00 p.m): Soprano Decorativas (Decorative Art Mayra Luz Alemán and guests Museum) (concert music).

Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes (National Fine Arts Museum) Trocadero e/ Monserrate y Zulueta, Habana Vieja. Tel: 7 861-0241 -7 863-9484. Patio del Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes. Edificio de Arte Cubano. Sat. Apr. San Ignacio No. 356 entre 22 (7 pm): Concert by singer Muralla y Teniente Rey. Tel: Calle 17 e/ D y E, Vedado. Tel: songwriter Liuba María Hevia. 7868 3561. Apr. 23. (10:00 a.m): 7832-0924. Wed. Apr. 26 (4 pm): Thu. Apr. 25 to 29: Chamber Exhibition ¨Blanco, Negro y Trocadero e/ Monserrate y Club ¨Lo que me queda por Music Festival (concerts, Rosa¨ (White, Black and Pink) by Zulueta, Habana Vieja. Tel: 7861 vivir¨. Host: Gloria Liz. Sat. 22 (3 workshops, conferences) Alexander Izquierdo Plasencia, Sun. Apr. 30, (4:00 p.m.): Club 0241 -7863 9484. Sun. Apr. 30 pm): Soprano Mayra Luz Alemán organized by the National as part of the week of French ¨Solo quiero amor” with Rafael (11am): Clown performance. and guests. Concert Music Center. culture. Espín. ENTERTAINMENT& LISTINGS 9 GETTING AROUND DANCE DANCE Centro Hispanoamericano 24th ¨Romerías de Mayo¨ International Festival de Cultura (Spanish-American Culture Center) Date: May 2 to 8 Malecón e/ Prado y Capdevila, Centro Habana, Ciudad de Venue: Holguín province. La Habana. Tel: 7860-6282. Apr. Sat, 22, (2:00 p.m.): 8th Choreography Contest “Creative” (children and adolescents).

Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes (National Fine Arts Museum) Trocadero e/ Monserrate y Zulueta, Habana Vieja. Tel: 7 861-0241 -78639484. Patio del Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes. Edificio de Arte Cubano: Sun. Apr. 23 (11 am): Children´s dance troupe “Paso a Paso.” 10 CULTURE Buena Fe Beat the Odds By DaimarelysPÉREZ José Tito José Tito Meriño PHOTO:

When Israel Rojas and Yoel Martinez, very competitive musical context. with singer-songwriter Silvio Rodríguez, of the “De Corazón” group. founders of the Buena Fe duo, first took Their most recent recording, the director of the duo said that the He said that such threesomes to the stage 20 years ago, they may not Sobreviviente, was launched after project reflected generational concerns work “to inspire good ideas and good have envisaged the extent to which they 18 years of philosophizing and and endeavored to shine a light on creations, because human sentiments would become beloved by their people. metaphorical discourse on day to day contemporary Cuba’s societal scene. are always in fashion and belong to Déjame entrar (Let me in) was the events that affect the Cuban way of life. He elaborated; “La Tempestad, every generation.” excellent musical expression of their Duo director, Israel Rojas, told that with Silvio’s invaluable partnership, He also confessed his deep ideas that introduced them to the Sobreviviente is a well thought-out and is an important form of generational fondness for the work of the renowned music scene and brought them into introspective work that broaches a “well- interaction. Some might consider it Cuban visual artist, Roberto Fabelo. the everyday life of Cubans. balanced selection of subjects. We had a more of a clash, but I prefer to call it an He spoke in this regard about how Following further offerings that lot of time to facilitate its creation.” expression of the ongoing exchanges they met and how popular female forms include the acclaimed Presagios; In an interview with The Havana through which the young constantly conceived from the artists brush strokes, Pi 3.14; Catalejo and Dial, the duo Reporter, Rojas explained that such seek new avenues to explore and their have formed part of his recent productions. from Cuba’s musical eastern region‘s a “well thought-out record includes elders reflect on unfulfilled dreams.” “Everything I have in my life has intelligent and insightful lyrics have songs that the ideas for which He stressed that “the way is paved come through my songs: my friends, my ensured the organic expansion of a needed a reasonable length of time to by dreaming and by trying to keep up loves, my most precious experiences substantial fan base. organize.” He added that he considers with your times.” and the countries I’ve seen. They have Without foreseeing the future, without it to have achieved a “good balance Israel Rojas spoke very positively been so good and kind to me. The fact mathematical calculation and without between entertainment, sound and about the duo’s collaborations with that Fabelo come to us, that we had imagining how well their work would experimentation.” Cuban troubadours from different reached him through our melodies be received - both in Cuba and abroad In response to a question about the generations, including Frank Delgado seems beautiful, poetic and very - Buena Fe has survived and thrived in a October 2016 La Tempestad recording and Vicente Alejandro Trigo – director important to me.” Eugenio Rodríguez, A Cuban Sculptor of Consequence By AlainPLANELLS

Havana’s National Fine Arts Museum reproduction of classical norms to is celebrating the 100th anniversary his discovery through stone and of sculptor Eugenio Rodríguez, with woodcarvings of the unlimited potential an exhibition that reflects the result of breaking with figurative traditions. of efforts made by scholars and The Rodríguez paintings on show institutions to preserve an artistic clearly indicate a constant evocation of legacy consigned to oblivion for his three-dimensional sculptural works, several decades. of which they are almost afterthoughts The 100th anniversary of that oppose the development of this Rodríguez’s – who died in 1968 – birth specific medium. provides an ideal context for this There is also an undeniable thematic important exhibition, which runs until universe that in his later years included July 31st and renders tribute to one of tangible evidence of the political and the most versatile and prolific Cuban social processes of the triumph of the artists of the second half of the 20th Cuban Revolution, on January 1, 1959. century. This element has come in for Over 50 sculptures, engravings particular praise from the critics for and paintings that provide a unique the way abstract language is fused insight into their authors thematic and with new contextual motivations and inspirational versatility, will be on show its communicative environmental in the Transitory Hall of the Cuban Arts compatibility with other figurative Building. expressions. The exhibition’s “Juego de Ángeles” During this period, Eugenio title refers to the artist’s ability to Rodríguez also devoted himself to transcend poetic trends. the direction and development of The organizers selected works the modernization of Cuban sculpture. painting during those same decades. the National Fine Arts Museum, an created between 1944 and 1968 that The pieces also highlight aesthetic Their selection demonstrates institution that today lauds his highly illustrate Rodríguez’s prominence in developments in Cuban engraving and the artist’s progression from the artistic and eloquent imprint. PHOTO FEATURE 11

Havana’s Orchid Festival By BettyHERNANDEZ

The fifth Havana’s National Orchid Festival proved once again to be a truly great occasion for Cuba‘s community of collectors, scholars and orchid lovers to exchange ideas and celebrate nature and its preservation. Held in the capital’s Quinta de los Molinos garden, the floral fest was jointly sponsored by the Cuban Botanical Society (Socubot, in Spanish) and the Havana City Historian’s Office. This year, the event included a range of competitions, plant exhibitions, photo contests and lectures on the flora of the Caribbean’s largest island and the cultivation and preservation of orchids. The agenda aimed to enhance participants and visitors awareness of the

importance of these plants and promote in order to reproduce them outside their the protection of Cuba’s natural ecosystems. natural environment. Alelí Morales, Socubot’s Deputy In Cuba, there are 130 endemic varieties Chairwoman, highlighted a growing of orchid, found in their wild form in interest in the cultivation of exotic plants different nationwide, often accompanied in Cuba and said that one of the Orchid by other species from the Caribbean and Festival’s objectives is to reduce pressure South America. There are 308 species on endemic species. present overall. The specialist commented explained These wonderful wild flowers grow, that “the problem still exists today, although where conditions exist, all over Cuba. it has decreased because collectors now Most however are in the Pinar del have greater access to brighter and more Río province’s Sierra de los Órganos colorful ornamental species. and Sierra del Rosario, in the central She added that her organization works Guamuhaya mountain range and in the to broaden popular knowledge about Sierra Maestra and Nipe-Sagua-Baracoa, cultivation of plants, particularly orchids, in the eastern region. 12 POLITICS Progressive Moreno Wins Ecuadorian Presidency By SinayCESPEDES

Ecuadors new President Lenín Moreno celebrated his behalf of those who had not voted for him. victory with a rendition of Antonio Machado’s verses that The night’s celebrations closed with a duo during translate as “there is no path, so one must be plotted”, to which the incoming and outgoing presidents were music by Joan Manuel Serrat. accompanied by their people. He promised the thousands that had assembled The following day, Ecuador’s new president elects to celebrate his triumph that he would maintain their expressed gratitude for the many messages of support Citizens Revolution. and congratulations he had received from Latin American His melodic voice rang out in song at midnight on April leaders and called for the strengthening of regional 2nd on a stage set up on the principal Los Shyris avenue, integration processes. in front of his Alianza Pais party’s Quito headquarters. Amongst the first to congratulate him were presidents The young, women, entire families and children came Evo Morales (Bolivia), Nicolás Maduro (Venezuela) and out to join the man chosen to succeed president Rafael Salvador Sánchez Ceren (El Salvador) and Argentina’s ex Correa, who has led the South American nation for 10 president Cristina Férnandez. years, often referred to -- because of the significant Cuban president, Raul Castro Ruz, was also among the economic, social and political progress made -- as the first to send a message that expressed„my congratulations Won Decade, on May 24 next. on an electoral triumph that represents a new dawn Flags, vuvuzelas, banners in support of the former vice- for the Citizen‘s Revolution and the continuation of this

president and slogans such as ‚Lenín, amigo, el pueblo Apimages PHOTO: sister nation‘s commitment to the unity, defense and está contigo‘ (Lenin, friend, the people are with you) since by the people, in the interests of their increased sovereignty of Our America.“ flooded an area more accustomed to hosting opposition well being. The Cuban leader transmitted his nation‘s „highest demonstrations against the national government. The eradication of infant malnutrition and poverty, to esteem and consideration“ to Moreno, adding that, „Cuba For this second round of presidential elections, improve the lot of the elderly and to promote the creation will accompany you in the same spirit of friendship and those that had always favored the continuity of the of jobs and enterprises, above all for the young, all form solidarity as always.“ Citizens Revolution had gathered here ensure their part of the incoming administrations priorities. With 99.05% of votes counted, the incumbent party’s proximity to the Alianza Pais high command, when One of its main commitments is to wage a battle candidate had the support of 51.16% of the electorate victory was declared. against corruption that already exists or might arise and his rival and former banker Guillermo Lasso had What started out as dozens and grown to hundreds as during his mandate. taken 48.84%. polls closed, became a multitude of thousands following Encouraged by his tried and trusted trajectory, With authorities having called for peace, this second the National Electoral Commission’s first official bulletin Moreno called on all the people of Ecuador to ‘continue round of elections in Ecuador was a tranquil affair, just after 8pm, confirming the candidate’s victory. the construction of a better nation’ to honor the founder although at the close of polls, some members of the With his usual robust sweetness, Moreno promised to of a new Ecuador, the outgoing President Correa. opposition gathered rowdily outside the National continue on the path chosen by Correa back in 2007 and The election winner repeatedly expressed ‘thank you Electoral Commission’s offices in the capital and other to reinforce the very real transformations experienced Rafael’ and said that he was ready to go to work, even on parts of the country such as Guayaquil. Mexico Faces Migration Bottleneck By OrlandoORAMAS

Mexico increased by 1060%. government issued a strong rejection In 2016, 8,781 persons, 90% of whom at the UN of the migratory policies of were from Honduras, El Salvador and US President Donald Trump, and the Guatemala requested refugee status. proposed construction of his border wall, In view of this, he explained that it is the visa veto for refugees and citizens from necessary to make people aware of the designated Muslim countries and the plan importance of supporting the migrants to accelerate deportations, in particular. and refugees that arrive in Mexico and to Miguel Ruiz Cabañas, Mexico’s Deputy regard them “not as a problem, but rather Secretary for Multilateral Affairs and an additional resource for the nation. He Human Rights, declared at the 34th session stressed that they can contribute to the of the UN Human Rights Council that development of community and society “walls between nations are walls between Antonio Molpeceres, the Resident peoples that convert extremism and Coordinator of the United Nations System intolerance into physical and ideological in Mexico, said that Tapachula, in the barriers that we can never accept under southern state of Chiapas, is one of the any circumstances.” main points of entry for migrants and Cabañas added that Mexico shares refugees. the “most profound concerns” expressed He added that in recent years, the by other international mechanisms about International Organization for Migration the vulnerability of migrants who are (IOM) and the Office of the United frequently the victims of measures that, on Nations High Commissioner for Refugees a supposed pretext of enhancing security,

PHOTO: Apimages PHOTO: (UNHCR) had increased their staff in infringe their most fundamental human In addition to being a nation used “migratory bottleneck” with several Chiapas to attend the increasing needs of rights and integrity. frequently for transit and a country from thousand Haitian, African, Central Central American migrants and refugees He continued, “let us not be which it’s own people migrate, Mexico, American and Caribbean migrants now arriving there. mistaken, racism and xenophobia lurk at a time when US border controls have having to decide to remain on their side of Molpeceres concurs that the majority behind such words.” been tightened because of the isolationist the US border. of people are from El Salvador, Honduras Ruiz Cabañas stated that ill-conceived and xenophobic policies of president The director of the UN Mexico and Guatemala. security measures not only restrict the Donald Trump, is presently experiencing Information Centre, Giancarlo Summa, has movement of people, they also add the increased migratory related challenges. revealed that between 2011 and 2016, THE “TRUMP’S WALL” vulnerability and risks that migrants face Mexican authorities are facing a the number of people seeking asylum in On a related matter, the Mexican and put their lives in danger. ECONOMY 13 Cuban and Czech Farmers Do Business By RobertoSALOMÓN

The Czech Republic’s Agriculture The agreement also covers Minister, Marian Jurecka, spoke of his cooperation on scientific and research country’s willingness to contribute to into animal and plant health, ecological the improvement of land use in Cuba, agriculture, organic production during a bilateral business forum and treatment, post-season handling and the XX International Agribusiness and organic fertilization processes. Food and Agriculture Fair (Fiagrop, in The instrument also encourages Spanish). agricultural biotechnology, agro- In an interview with The Havana meteorology, climate change and

Reporter, the minister said that “we Manuel Muñoa PHOTOs: Cuban Chamber of Commerce, explained agriculture research and initiatives, to have discovered great potential for the international companies such as Skoda. that the presence of such a significant promote the recovery of agricultural production of food.” “We are ready to supply products, Czech delegation demonstrated a strong areas affected by climate change. Jurecka was in Cuba specifically technologies and genetic material for desire to cooperate with the Cuban food Finally, it outlines scientific norms to participate in the both the bilateral artificial insemination to the Cuban and agricultural sectors. for the mutual support of trade meeting and the Fiagrop event, in cattle sector and to offer advice on the The official said at the business and investment in sectors such as which 170 exhibitors from 16 countries crucial issue of livestock fodder,” the forum that the sector has strengths and agriculture, industry, food, technology participated at the Rancho Boyeros minister added. opportunities that can be fostered by and machinery, soil preservation show grounds in Havana. Jurecka said that the two nations foreign investment. techniques, irrigation and the exchange The Czech Republic minister had “enjoyed strong cooperation of experiences and information in was accompanied by a delegation relationships prior to 1990 and now VETERINARY AND PHYTOSANITARY the agricultural, food and forestry of 61 businessmen representing 40 hope to reestablish them.” AGREEMENT industries. companies, the largest to participate The minister highlighted the The Czech Ambassador, Vladimir in the agriculture and cattle raising delegation’s inclusion of banking After concluding the first day of the intense Eisenbruk, told The Havana Reporter exhibition. representatives to support investment agenda at Fiagrop 2017, the minister that “although Cuba and the Czech His delegation represented various projects and to provide long-term met with his Cuban counterpart, Gustavo Republic cooperate on energy and the sectors such as livestock, the food and financial credits for the acquisition of Rodríguez, and signed a Memorandum of environment and we now also want to beer brewing industries, agricultural technologies. Understanding to promote veterinary and establish a presence in the agricultural machinery and equipment, and Orlando Hernández, chairman of the phytosanitary cooperation. and food sector.” Air Europa Increases Flights to Cuba By MasielFERNÁNDEZ

“With this extraordinary airplane, we to assimilate new and more efficient consider the inclusion of Cuba as a fixed technologies that obviously enhance route to be something of a coup, and customer comfort levels. we reaffirm both our commitment to The incorporation of the new airliner the country and our efforts to make this is important not only from an aviation fashionable destination more accessible for perspective but also for the Caribbean all wanting to visit,” he added. nation’s tourism industry as a whole. María del Carmen Orellana, Mintur’s It is also an indication of the favorable General Marketing Manager, told conditions that now exist in the country for The Havana Reporter that she greatly foreign investment and business. appreciated “the airline’s consistent work These aircraft use 20% less fuel and with the country ,” and reiterated the produce 20% less emissions than others of importance Spain as a market. a similar size. She said the “The introduction of this Their aerodynamic characteristics plane represents a new beginning that opens reduce flight times their enhanced The Air Europa Airline has increased the executives, the Air Europa chairman, Juan up possibilities to be availed of by travelers. passenger entertainment and on board number of its flights to Cuba, with the José Hidalgo landed in Havana on board We appreciate that and we will continue Wi-Fi service options make them more introduction of a Boeing 787 Dreamliner, the inaugural flight. to work in partnership to achieve even comfortable. one of the world’s most modern airplanes, Hidalgo informed the press of his more exceptional results.” Spain is one of Cuba’s principal tourist on its Spain to Havana route. satisfaction with the airline’s addition of The Mintur executive highlighted that emissary markets. According to Cuba’s Tourism Ministry Cuba to four other regional destinations: the development reflects both Air Europa’s During 2016, 153,340 Spanish tourists (Mintur), the 296 seat craft will operate daily. Miami, Bogotá, Santo Domingo and Buenos commitment to the destination and the visited the country, which represents a 42% Accompanied by other company Aires. capacity of Cuba’s airport infrastructure year on year increase on the figure for 2015. 14 ECONOMY Sustainable Solutions to Drought in Cuba By JuliaCRUZATA

A sustainable solution to drought in Friedrich added that drought is not the Cuba would by necessity include water sole cause of Cuba’s current water shortage. infiltration provisions and increased Many water reservoirs are wooded areas nationwide, the FAO overexploited or in danger of representative in the country, Theodor salinization due to sea incursions, as Friedrich, has said. lakes register their lowest water levels Interviewed by The Havana Reporter in history. during the recent International He highlighted that for years, the Cubagua Convention 2017, an event exploitation of land water had exceeded that brought experts from multilateral precipitation levels. organizations and several countries For this reason, the issue is not together, the expert explained that “the exclusively due to the past three- capacity of woodlands in this regard year period, during which rainfall had arises not from the presence of trees, notably and progressively decreased. but from not farming the land and The United Nations Food and maintaining the soil’s natural structure.” Agricultural (FAO) expert recognized According to Friedrich, conservation that Cuban authorities concur with this agriculture technologies could point of view and that their national

aware of this situation. in places, this figure becomes reduced Cuba is making massive investments over time and ultimately only 50% of to reduce water leakages in pipelines. precipitation potential can be exploited. It’s not a problem of a lack of awareness The noteworthy solution in Cuba but of the additional financing the of the construction of lakes has solved country needs. the problems of serious flooding, but Responsible for in excess of 70% not of drought nor the management of of all national water consumption, underground water, he said. agriculture is one of the sectors most In the opinion of the FAO adversely affected by drought. representative, an element that requires This highlights the need to enhance very special attention is the drilling of the efficient use of water resources in infiltration wells to alleviate the ravages the sector, because in many cases, there of drought; as such actions could result in are high indexes of consumption but an unwanted contamination of aquifers. expected output levels are not achieved, Considering the potential as happened with rice production. consequences of climate change, it is The FAO expert also mentioned possible that severe droughts could that only parts of precipitations are get even worse in the future, hence collected in aquifers, which related to the importance of finding sustainable Jorge Pérez Jorge PHOTO: the 30% of the wooded surface in the solutions. convert all areas on earth, particularly water policy includes a comprehensive country. According to data provided by agricultural lands, into places where approach to such challenges. He added that in the rest of the the National Institute of Hydraulic water can be preserved. He added that water management territory, water generally runs off the Resources (INRH, in Spanish), 71% of The official said that helping nature and use can be improved in the country surface and ends up in the sea, without Cuba’s national territory is affected to work properly -- with soil as a key by reducing pipeline leaks and increasing contributing to the by drought and that 141 out of element – guarantees the recovery of the efficient use of the resource. refilling of land aquifers. 168 municipalities are facing water clean water ecosystem services and The Cuban government and its He estimated that with more shortages. In 61 of these the drought is also creates safe and pleasant natural Agriculture Ministry in particular – in reservoirs, over 40% of rainfall could be classed as extreme and in a further 50 it environments. close collaboration with the FAO - are collected. But because of sedimentation is described as severe. 15 16