Havanareporter YEAR IX

Tourism

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Cuban Tourist Sector Targets More Competitive Products Cuba-U.S. P. 3 Havana Heals Tornado Scars Drumming to the Beat of Havana’s Yearly Festival

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The U.S. Increases Hostility towards Cuba Culture

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Havana & a Defining Element: Rum Sports

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Ibargüen vs Rojas: The P. 7 Sports Rivalry of the Year? 2 TOURISM

Cuban Tourist Sector Targets More Competitive Products

of friends or in the company of their By MasielFERNANDEZ families. The hotel has conditions for holding HAVANA.- The Cuban tourist industry big events, as it has a modern convention is committed to offering ever more center with seven meeting halls and a competitive products that meet clients’ 1,000 square meter ballroom. expectations. Likewise, it has alternative areas As part of this strategy, the sector including terraces, swimming pool, is offering a new variety of hotels that gardens and a beach, offering make the difference, Cuban Tourism multiply choices so that the events Minister Manuel Marrero said in Madrid are held successfully, said Meliá Hotels during the International Tourism Fair, International. FITUR 2019, last January. Marrero referred to a new generation of five-star luxury hotels in Havana and Varadero, such as Gran Hotel Manzana Kempinski La Habana, Iberostar Grand Packard and Hotel Meliá Internacional Varadero, “which will be the best of that beach resort.” Meliá International is the newest hotel and is considered one of the most original in Cuba, very much convenient to hold big events. With a nice and contemporary design, its rooms have smart technology, intended to offer greater comfort to guests, according to a press release published by Meliá Hotels International hotel chain, which runs the hotel. The facility that recently opened its doors in the famous Varadero beach resort belongs to Gran Caribe Group, and has 946 rooms spread in eleven floors. It affords “incomparable views” of Varadero Beach, which TripAdvisor recognized as the third best in the world in 2018. The Cuba division of Meliá Hotels International chain praised in the release the institution’s high level of personalized services, with exclusive areas for guests who wish to have a more personal attention, both for individual travelers and families. The ground floor has 15 restaurants where the “guests can enjoy the best variety of flavors, from Japanese to Italian and Cuban food,” the note reads. In addition, its 16 bars allow the customers to appreciate different ambiences while tasting the most varied cocktails, it added. The hotel also has a Yhi Spa on the last floor, with an infinity swimming pool, and a Teen Spa specially for adolescents

who wish to receive services for a group Courtesy of Meliá International. Hotels PHOTOS:

A Bimonthly 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: Paola A. González Publisher: Agencia Informativa Latinoamericana, Information Vice President: Hector Miranda. Chief Graphic Editor: Francisco González Prensa Latina, S.A. Editorial Vice President: Lianet Arias Advertising: Nelson Pérez Vergara Calle E, esq. 19 No. 454, Vedado, La Habana-4, Cuba. Chief Editor: Luis Melian Circulation: Commercial Department. Telephone: (53)7838-3496 / 7832-3578 Translation: Dayamí Interian/ Yanely Interián Printing: Imprenta Federico Engels Fax: (53)7833-3068 E-mail: [email protected] CUBA 3

Havana Heals Tornado Scars By MendyRODRIGUEZ its premise: “Nobody will be left to their own fate.” HAVANA.-ONE month after a strong According to the Head of State, tornado devastated five municipalities of recovery measures should be guided by Havana, the Cuban capital shows signs of the concept that things should surpass recovery, even though much remains to their prior state of being and added that be done. priority should be given to the most For many, it will be difficult to forget vulnerable people. the night of January 27, when several lives Díaz-Canel highlighted that the were lost, dozens of people were injured, tragedy has strengthened the Cubans’ more than 7,800 homes were damaged unity and has consolidated collective and the electricity, communications and management, relations between national water services were affected. and local entities, and interactions This weather phenomenon changed between different sectors of the society. the landscape in some areas of The president expressed his Guanabacoa, Regla and Diez de Octubre– satisfaction for being part of a community the most affected municipalities–where of people where individuals share what over 1,600 buildings either totally or they have and show sensibility and partially collapsed and hundreds of trees generosity, in respect to the solidarity, and electrical posts fell, obstructing many dedication and effort made in favor of roads. disaster relief. According to Havana’s governmental As for the material damage, he president, Reynaldo García, the city is estimated that based on a conservative gradually regaining strength and basic analysis, most of the problems could be services have been restored. resolved and tended to by the end of the “The most difficult task is solving year. infrastructural issues of housing, though notable progress has been made in this regard. For example, thousands of neighbors have assembled the necessary building materials, while actions to repair and build for the victims are underway,”García indicated. Yaima Castillo, a resident in Regla, told The Havana Reporter that she feels relieved to see that her home is almost ready, even though it was almost totally destroyed by the tornado. “I can’t complain about the workers. From when they arrive until late evening, they work nonstop and hardly rest. My home is almost ready thanks to their efforts,” she said.

NOBODY WILL BE LEFT TO THEIR OWN FATE On the very night of January 27 and the days that followed, Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel visited the areas hit by the tornado. On those occasions, he talked to the victims and assured them that the Revolution will hold to

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The U.S. Increases Hostility towards Cuba interfered in Venezuela or received Colombian guerrillas By WaldoMENDILUZA when, in fact, they are delegates of peace talks, a process suspended by President Iván Duque after a deadly attack HAVANA.- Following the notable tightening of the U.S. in the South American country. economic, commercial and financial blockade against The situation in Venezuela, the target country of Cuba in 2018, the new year began with an escalation of another coup d’état attempt led by the White House, is the US hostility towards the island. used by top U.S officials to fabricate a case against Cuba, By the middle of January, President Donald Trump including Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and National suspended the Title III rule of the Helms-Burton Act of Security Advisor John Bolton. 1996 for 45 days only, after his predecessors had done Experts, businesspeople, intellectuals and so for six months. This initiative entitles U.S. nationals to personalities from different parts of the world including bring lawsuits before U.S. courts against any foreigner the United States, have questioned the Trump policy who “partakes” in properties nationalized in Cuba during towards Cuba, highlighting that they have put it in the the 1960s. hands of minority sectors in Miami, like Senator Marco The Cuban Foreign Affairs Ministry called that decision Rubio, and ultra conservative representatives. a dangerous threat because, if the aforementioned title They disagree with those who are committed to takes effect, the blockade would intensify, in glaring undoing achievements like the bilateral talks about violation of International Law and directly affecting the topics of common interest, commercial flights, cruise sovereignty and interests of third party countries. ships and the arrival of more than 600,000 U.S. nationals At the end of January, officials of the Trump in 2018, although the blockade restricts tourist travel. administration said, both under anonymity and openly, In the meantime, Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel that Washington was considering to include Cuba back ON THE WAY TO CONFRONTATION called the escalation of U.S. threats irresponsible hostility on the unilateral list of State Sponsors of Terrorism. Cuban leaders have warned that as part of the and a brutal attack on International Law and third party Obama removed the island from that list in 2015, amid objective to reverse the progress made under the countries. a process of bilateral rapprochement that was greatly Obama administration in bilateral relations, the White "We will not permit political intimidations; we have applauded throughout the world. House seems to be embarking on a course of greater sufficient, legitimate reason and fact to cope with so “Some U.S. government officials seem to be out of confrontation. much hostility and disdain,” the president stressed. control, involved in frenzied attacks against Cuba by any The First Secretary of the Central Committee of the Meanwhile, the support of positive bilateral relations, means possible,” said Carlos Fernández de Cossío, the Communist Party of Cuba, Raúl Castro, has reiterated the flow of tourists to Cuba and bilateral trade continue director of U.S. Affairs at the Cuban Foreign Ministry. that the island is willing to talk and maintain respectful to increase in the United States and Congress itself. Some The diplomat denounced the orchestration of lies relations with the powerful neighbor, but it will also sectors, small but powerful, insist on creating a scenario about Cuba in Washington as a weapon of first defense. continue to resist U.S. hostility, as it has done over the of confrontation; therefore, the beginning of March will According to those fabrications, Cuba has allegedly past six decades. be a period of uncertainty. HEALTH & SCIENCE 5

Cuban President Promotes Informatization of the Society development for years, mainly because of the By LisbetRODRIGUEZ financial persecution and sanctions imposed to international infrastructural companies HAVANA.- Information technology has become that have established relations with Cuba. a large part of the technological globalization However, the informatization process must be process in recent years; therefore, it is necessary seen as a phenomenon that links the country’s to teach new generations how to use such overarching economic, ideological and social advancements. elements. New communication technologies should be This was stated by the President of the accessible in an organized and extensive way, to Councils of State and Ministers of Cuba, Miguel meet the needs of all social spheres. Díaz-Canel Bermúdez, last December before In this regard, the informatization process the Services Commission of the People’s of the Cuban society, which is largely directed Power National Assembly. He then said that at developing technological infrastructure the increase registered in the Gross Domestic and generating digital services and content, Product, especially in the telecommunications represents a crucial platform to further the sector, is a sign of the progress attained so far in country’s development and improve its people’s the informatization of the society. wellbeing. “The expansion of internet services in Eliminating the digital gap and attaining the country has led to a higher participation wide-spread access to modern technologies is a of Cubans on social media, which facilitates priority for Cuba, hoping to fulfill its sustainable communication among citizens and the development goals. The professional training of possibility to further enhance Cuba’s image,”the human resources will be Cuba’s main strength in President noted. this sense. Improvements in the Cuban digital sector The Cuban education system has given have been noticeable, including the extension priority to computer courses as an indispensable of the areas with cell phone service, the resource for socioeconomic development, for digitalization of public archives, and the increase which technology labs have been added to some of cybersecurity measures, just to mention a few. Cuban schools. During the National Workshop on The University of Computer Sciences (UCI) Informatization and Territorial Cybersecurity was established in close relation to the national held recently, Díaz-Canel voiced the importance informatization process. In order to contribute to of relying on scientific research, social this process, the university has also developed communication and informatization to cope partnerships with national enterprises such as with and seek solutions to social problems. BioCubaFarma Group, collaborating on a variety “As the Cuban population keeps growing of scientific and technological projects. older, we are compelled to develop an Currently, UCI maintains relations with 135 information technology-based society and universities from 40 countries, materialized through automate the processes in order to improve the cooperation agreements, academic exchange, people’s quality of life. Hence, we must continue professional training and attendance to events. to develop our infrastructure, taking the It is clear that the U.S. blockade against country’s financial limitations and the blockade

Cuba has posed an obstacle to the country’s into consideration,” the President stressed. Internet PHOTOS: Meteorite Strikes Cuba Spread all over the Viñales National By AnaLauraARBESU Park, a popular tourist destination because of its mogotes (limestone hills), HAVANA.- Tourists and residents of the meteorite remains now form part of Viñales, a town and UNESCO World people’s personal rock collections. Heritage Site in Cuba´s westernmost Shortly after the event, geologists province of Pinar del Rio, still tremble and specialists in earth science went to when they recall the noise caused by a Viñales to study the remnants, with many

recent meteor that struck the area. questions pertaining to the incident. “For nternet PHOTO: But Havana residents also remember these scientists, it is a unique experience to that week well, as the event in Viñales have access to a phenomenon of this nature Alvarez noted that the event has manganese salicylates and containing a occurred five days after a strong tornado in their career,”Carlos Pérez, the research great scientific importance, although small amount of pyroxene. hit part of the capital in less than 16 director of the Geology and Paleontology the studies conducted thus far reveal no “Based on its composition, the analysis minutes, leaving incalculable damage Institute, told The Havana Reporter. significant presence of carbon in the rock. suggests it is adunite, a rock of ultramafic and intense disaster relief efforts. He also requested that the local Otherwise, “we could have gotten more composition,” explained Cuban geologist When recovery efforts were in full population donate some of the information about the origin of life on our and petrologist AngélicaLlanes. swing, space specialists had the island remnants that were collected to the planet,” he said. Thestudies developed so far are the at the forefront of world news: Meteorite scientific community for their study. Although the data reveals that the beginning of an ongoing, thorough Fall in Cuba Confirmed. “The fragments will be exhibited at meteorite was most likely smaller than investigation of the samples collected. The meteorite pieces that fell on museums, and the rocks now make part the one that fell in Chelyabinsk, Russia, The event caught the eye of the February 1 had the Viñales population in of the country’s geologic and scientific close to the border with Kazakhstan in Cuban scientific community, that is suspense, unsettled by the quake of the patrimony,” he said. 2013, it could have measured more than now analyzing the fragments carefully. heavenly body striking land. Meanwhile, astrophysicist Oscar four meters in diameter. Meteorites rarely fall in inhabited places, According to estimates later published Alvarez commented that the preliminary Images of the first microscopic analysis which is why the scientists agree that by NASA's Center for Near-Earth Object analysis suggests it is anachondrite, a show information about its composition, every detail will provide important Studies, the energy expended was similar rock that could possibly offer information texture and dimensions, indicating high information pertaining to the origin of to that of an explosion of 1,400 tons of TNT. about the origin of the universe. levels of olivine, a mineral rich in iron and our solar system. 6 CULTURE

Havana & a Defining Element: Rum capital through the best possible way: By TinoMANUEL cordiality. The taste for rum and its relation to HAVANA.- The Cuban capital is getting music and dance is also apparent when ready for its 500th anniversary, a walking the streets of Havana. celebration occurring on November 16, Having a sip of Cuban rum is a cultural 2019. There’s plenty to be said about this occasion, especially in the sense that anniversary, especially in regards to a several companies - such as Cuba Ron – are distinctive Cuban product such as rum. planning to launch a special product on Cuban rums, just like those produced the occasion of Havana’s 500th anniversary. in Puerto Rico, are world famous due Cuba Ron has a staff of 1,200 people to their quality and long tradition. This from all over the country who directly product is distilled following its ancient work in the production of the Cuban practices, preserved by the knowledge of liquor. This figure doubles if we consider eight Rum Maestros. those who indirectly work in different But the 500th anniversary of Havana is departments of the sugarcane mills. also closely related to rum, which is made According to the most recent data, from sugar cane and produced as a result in 2017, Cuba Ron and Havana Club of a complex industrial process. International – a company founded in Founded in 1519 under the shade of a 1993 in collaboration with Pernod Ricard, leafy Ceiba tree, Havana suddenly became from France exported 130 million dollars a cosmopolitan city, and travelers from all of rum. over the world were eager to know it. Havana Club International is A charming environment, similar to renowned, advertised and sampled the Tower of Babel, radiates in its streets, throughout most of the world, exporting where people from all over the world to over 120 countries. walk, speaking foreign languages but At present, 4.5 million boxes of nine getting to know the inhabitants of the liters are produced and sold and by 2030,

the projection is to reach 6.5 million a unit used to facilitate international comparisons. Of that amount, 4.5 million will be exported at present, 2.9 million of Havana Club boxes are sold abroad. Other rum brands are expected to sell 35 percent of what Havana Club exports. Cuba is the primary market for Havana Club rum, especially due to the increase of tourism, followed by Germany, France, Italy and Spain. The Cuban rum is currently featured in different international exhibits, including an exhibition curated in Chicago, the United States, where this product cannot be sold but calls the attention of experts and drinkers alike. For this reason, rum is also considered a cultural ambassador. Taking all of this into account, it’s easy to understand the relationship between rum and Havana, its streets, Cuban music and, especially, its people. PL/Internet PHOTOS: SPOTLIGHT 7

Drumming to the Beat of Havana’s Yearly Festival

By YanisbelPEÑA

HAVANA.- Percussion, recognized as a central component of Cuban music and culture as a whole, is celebrated on the island each year during the “Guillermo Barreto in Memoriam” Drum Festival, coming up on its 18th edition. Scheduled for March 4-10, the festival has special significance this year because it is dedicated to Spain, as well as the amount and quality of the artists that participate. Once more, Havana becomes the hub of world music. The Drum Party is preparing for one of the highest esteemed editions having been dedicated to Spain. This entails a journey through the roots of Cuban music, with the Spanish and African influences serving as the pillars that support an entire cultural system and helping to define national identity. From Spain, we inherited much more than language and Catholicism we inherited the guitar and percussion which, combined with the beats of African drums, represent the rhythmic and harmonic foundation of Cuban music. The 18thedition of the “Guillermo Barreto in Memoriam” Drum Festival welcomes outstanding musicians from different parts of the world. The public will enjoy performances by flamenco singer Diego “El Cigala”, Ketama band—one of the most popular contemporary flamenco music bands and popular Spanish folk musician Falete. Other participants from Spain are pianist Laura de Los Ángeles, percussionist José Montaña, fusion music band Pantax and instrumentalist Ismael Andabo, and popular bands such as Los the drummers Rodney Barreto and Oliver Rosado “Benny Moré” at La Tropical, the “Piraña,” a former member of Paco de Van Van, Adalberto Álvarez y su Son, Valdés. organizers said. Lucía’s flamenco band. Habana D´ Primera, Pupy y Los que As usual, the concert program is The “Guillermo Barreto in Memoriam” The list of participants also includes Son Son, Elito Revé y su Charangón, accompanied by a percussion contest, Drum Festival is the most esteemed drum players Mark Guiliana and Aldo Maykel Blanco y su Salsa Mayor, El Niño lectures, artist workshops, and rumba percussion event held in Cuba, and it is an Mazza, and pianist Joachim Horsley. y La Verdad and El Expresso de Cuba, dance competitions. ideal occasion to have a good time and Meanwhile, Cuban performers will among others. The festival’s main venues in Havana learn from exceptional musicians. Let’s include legendary rumba groups like The solo performers include singers are Teatro Karl Marx, Casa de la Música de come together and enjoy to the beat of Muñequitos de Matanzas and Yoruba Daymé Arocena and Cimafunk, as well as 31 y 2, Teatro Nacional de Cuba and Salón the drums! PL/Internet PHOTOS: 8 CULTURE ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT [email protected] (THR is not responsible for any changes made by sponsoring organizations)

UPCOMING EVENTS

Havana´s 13th Biennial Havana World (Apr. 12- Music Festival May. 12) (March. 21-23) THE CARIBBEAN 9

Human Trafficking in the Caribbean: A Flourishing, Appalling Business By OdalysTROYA regions of the world, is affected by human trafficking aimed at HAVANA.- As a result of recent sexual or labor exploitation. accusations against police officers linked Although there is not to human trafficking in The Bahamas, recorded data specific to the the country’s National Security Minister, issue in the region, it is estimated Marvin Dames, has said that those that 40.3 million people are involved in such crime will be severely victims of modern slavery in the punished. world. At a press conference, the official In Central America and the expressed disappointment in the Caribbean, 80 percent of the country’s lack of “moral fiber” in relation victims are women and more to human trafficking. than half of them are young girls In this regard, he announced the – the latter represent 55 percent plan for Police Commissioner Anthony of the documented victims, Ferguson to investigate the accusations while adult women represent made against some police officers who 25 percent, according to the UN allegedly own illicit night clubs. Office on Drugs and Crime. He reiterated that the government Young boys and men, to a will severely punish and prosecute lesser extent, are, also forced those linked to this misconduct, which into human trafficking by is considered one of the major dregs of the unscrupulous, their value humanity, a money laundering and tax degraded to that of an exploited evasion business, and the world’s fastest- object or commodity. growing transnational criminal activity. Last year, 24 experts and In January, immigration officers government officials from 15 arrested 12 foreign women in three strip Caribbean states and territories clubs in New Providence as part of a joint met in Trinidad and Tobago operation. Eight of those women were to formalize the region’s accused of illegal work. first network against human However, the employers who hired trafficking. those undocumented women were not The event, held in April and accused, which was the main object of organized by the government of criticism by acting deputy magistrate Trinidad and Tobago, declared to Carolyn Vogt-Evans. improve both the exchange of “As I said before, no one is above the information and cooperation in law and I would expect that the police, the region to prevent and fight when they investigate, will look at this this crime. holistically,” said Minister Dames on this In the face of these matter. problems, local governments, in “It is a concern for us that people coordination with international are being recruited from neighboring entities, are trying to fight this countries to come here and work in these scourge and by virtue of this clubs; that’s a form of human trafficking crusade, Central America and the and punishment will be severe,” he Caribbean stand out for a high stressed. detection rate in relation to trade Forcing people to work in activities cases and sentences. that violate their basic rights is one of the The UN indicated that this is a most lucrative businesses in the world sign of improvement in national today. capacities to fight this scourge. Human trafficking, considered the “21st However, the problem century slavery,” is the third most lucrative persists, often covertly, because illicit business in the world and generates most of the enslaved are poor 32 billion dollars of illegal profits every migrants captured and traded year, according to the United Nations. by mafias and a long-term But The Bahamas is not an isolated prevention strategy has not yet

case. The Caribbean, just like almost all been enacted successfully. Internet PHOTOS: Vladímir Putin himself. received from Russian President Medal,the Pushkin whichhe who hasbeendecorated with to live,” saidtheonlyCuban what Ido;thisishow I’ve learned because Ifalldeeplyinlove with the lastonethat I’ve performed, and my favorite piece isalways tolearn loveofstyles, allkinds training, youof non-orthodox Tchaikovsky Conservatory. with agoldentitleat Moscow´s where Fernández graduated Víctor Merzhánov, inRussia, teachers inLatin and America, one ofthemostnotablepiano him: inCuba, Margot Rojas, on who hadalastingimpact Cabel andPeruchín. that deNieve, hemetBola René Burque’s 3am gigs. was there It ClubtoNight accompany Elena and was hired by theKarachi O'Farril at Hotel Saint John´s, Cesar Portillo delaLuz andEla with JoséAntonio Méndez, Habana Libre, shared thestage musician Bebo Valdés at Hotel his love for music. alongwith of financialnecessity began to play at night clubs, out was stillateenager, Fernandez not helphimpay for. When he profession that hisfather would desire was to beamusician, an accountant, buthisdeepest 1st National Piano Contest. for the firsttime, orwinningthe Conservatory, traveling to Europe at Music theAmadeo Roldán and cafeterias to prior hisstudies Bach’s delaSuite Aria enRe. more popular in the world than elements whenthere isnothing “popular” as mutually exclusive classifications like “refined” and ofavoidingthe importance life,60 years of artistic reiterated celebrate and his 75th birthday the maestro, whowillsoon with manifestation. expressions ofthat artistic love heholdsfor thegreatest himself,describes dueto the be an “impure” musician,ashe pianist saidhefeelsto lucky invitation, theCuban concert capital’s founding, inNovember. oftheCuban 500th anniversary the peopleinHavana for the company toItalian isgifting a fireworks display that an Fernández willaccompany Frank Fernández: An ImpureMusician,andProudofit! HAVANA.- “When you have“When thissort There were two teachers He alternated withthegreat father wantedHis himto be Fernandez played at bars anexclusiveIn interview Commenting on the By Martha 10 The Havana, Reporter Cuban pianistFrank SANCHEZ CULTURE brilliantly done. onthepiano,the styles ashe has and guaguancó, interpreting and isalsoableto enjoy rumba has won more than 200prizes memory,” who said theartist, is dedicated to my mother’s present day, whichisrather vast, guardian angel. he hasalways regarded herasa on.However, early she diedvery because whom hehardly knew old, encouraged by hismother, time whenhewas only 4 years played thepianofor thefirst musicians. legendary There, he and SindoGaray, two Cuban Matamoros he metMiguel Cuba. Mayarí, asmalltown in Eastern sensitive, in honestmanborn I feel my agenow,” saidthis the responsibility isgreater and than whenIwas young because learned. Istudyalotmore now is always somethingnewto be I told him,andbecausethere Iamnotsmart, much? Because Maestro, why doyou studyso were aboutto leave thebody.” in advance, as though the soul power that he makes us feel, andmysticalmuch transparency Leal callshim, “an withso artist Havana historian Eusebio City Aguirre once said. Meanwhile, Cuban plasticarts,” writer Mirtha music what stainedglassesisto a producer andaperformer. several albumsinmind, bothas La HabanaAlicia Alonso andhas orchestra oftheGran Teatro de withthe is planningaconcert Ernesto Lecuona. addition,he In inatribute toto participate and UlisesAquino invited him (Teatro Nacional)onMay 5th Hall oftheNational Theater honor himat theAvellaneda the world. one ofthegreatest pianistsin music panorama and, therefore, moment oftheinternational asublime during performers in callinghimoneofthegreatest agreesa pianist, but the majority God,” others praise his talent as Fernández isa “man blessedby “My entire“My work upto the was in Mayarí whereIt once“Someone askedme: “Frank Fernández’s soundisto will A group ofartists peoplesaySome that

PHOTOS: Internet PHOTO FEATURE 11 Fábrica de Arte Cubano Gives Prominence to Culture By LizBOBADILLA

HAVANA.- Cuban and foreign visitors alike are amazed by an old factory located in Havana where visual art exhibits, film screenings, design, architecture, fashion shows and concerts take place. This institution, known as Fábrica de Arte Cubano (FAC) -founded on February 13, 2014 by Cuban singer and composer X Alfonso- has showcased important artists from all over the world. Nominated on three consecutive occasions by the World Travel Awards, the FAC is the hub of artistic events from Thursdays to Sundays and of the highest quality, thus becoming a point of reference for other cultural venues. This cultural institution was nominated for the award mentioned above in the category of Leading Entertainment Center in the Caribbean, where it competes against Margaritaville Caribbean – a venue based in Jamaica and winner of this category in the last three de Arte is an interdisciplinary performing arts’ current trends. consecutive years. center that features the best Another attraction of The FAC, the only institution of Cuban contemporary art this cultural institution is the of its type in Cuba and the with a profound social and restaurant El Cocinero, where world, offers a unique and community approach, driven food serves as an expression new concept that allows the by the need of supporting and of Cuba’s culture and identity, showcase of the country’s promoting the work of local can be enjoyed under the big cultural heritage from an and global artists. chimney of the old factory an artistic point of view. For this The FAC has three halls ideal place for exploring Cuban reason, it is included among that are used separately gastronomy. the top ten places to visit in and simultaneously, that In support of sustainability Cuba, according to The New highlight live concerts, and taking care of the York Times. theater performances, dance environment, the venue’s interior Since its opening, the presentations, lectures, design, exhibit spaces and venue has been visited by workshops and audiovisual furniture rely on handcrafted, personalities from the world exhibits. Six other areas are used recycled and reused elements. of music such as Lady Gaga, to exhibit photography, visual Fábrica de Arte is endorsed Jon Bon Jovi, Mick Jagger, art, design and architectural by institutions such as the Rhett and Dominic Miller, Billy pieces. Cuban Ministry of Culture and Gibbons, David Chamber, Jeff The center closes its doors the National Popular Music Berlin, Johana Simon, among every three months to do Center, an entity attached to other international artists, who renovations and to set up new the Cuban Institute of Music. have shared the stage with exhibitions. However, the FAC is run by X Cuban musicians. According to the specialists Alfonso and a network of other Each year, this cultural of this institution, the FAC’s Cuban artists. institution is the venue main premise lies in the fact that This building was used as for different national and no limitations of age, curricular the location of the Havana international events, such background, or nationality are Electricity Company (1905), as the Havana World Music imposed, but rather artistic the “El Cocinero” Cooking Oil Festival; the Jazz Plaza; the quality is the main importance. Factory (1930), the Fishing Latin American New Film Fábrica de Arte Cubano Industry Warehouse (1959) Festival; the Eyeife Electronic offers a platform for less and a pharmaceutical drug Music Party; Peace and Love; popularized musical genres, factory. the Human Voice Festival; the such as classical music, jazz, Finally, the FAC, located by Johann Sebastian Bach Festival; rock and roll, and hip-hop. the bank of the Almendares the Fashion Week, and the In addition, new young River and Havana’s Puente de Design Biennial. artists can showcase their Hierro (Iron Bridge), became With the mission of fostering authentic creations there, thus the perfect renovated location exchange between different turning the place into a kind for arts and an architectural artistic expressions, Fábrica of gallery for both visual and symbol of Cuba’s development. PANCHITO PHOTOS: 12 LATIN AMERICA

Bolivia Advances towards Free, Universal Health Care By RosmerysBERNAL Health Minister Gabriela Montaño explained that the national government LA PAZ.- On March 1, Bolivia will will be responsible for the construction implement the Single Health System of hospitals and noted that at least 30 (SUS), an initiative aimed at providing million dollars out of the 200 million free, universal health care of quality, to be invested in health facilities will which will benefit the population that be assigned to infrastructure and currently lacks the resources to receive an equipment. adequate service. In October, the Head of State According to data provided by the announced that his government would National Statistics Institute, Bolivia´s take care of the construction of hospitals population is estimated at over 11.3 and the provision of free treatment for a million people and about 5.6 million whole year to cancer patients. neither have medical insurance nor are Several centers are expected to be Minister_GabrielaMONTAÑO in conditions to receive private health offering a comprehensive service to care. cancer patients starting next June. Law No. 475 of the Plurinational According to the Health minister, the State of Bolivia’s Comprehensive Health medical staff will also be increased. At Services Assistance – issued on December present, more than 4,500 Bolivian health 30, 2013 – guarantees medical attention professionals have registered to work to pregnant women, children under the with SUS. age of five, senior adults and disabled In spite of the government’s effort to persons. involve all the society in the implementation However, SUS – endorsed on February of SUS, medical colleges and trade unions 15 by the Senate – modifies the above- in different departments are conducting mentioned law and extends such benefits actions to oppose this initiative. to the rest of the population. Authorities of the Plurinational State “People of all ages will be covered of Bolivia have reiterated their intention to by SUS and will be able to receive all hold a dialogue with those professionals three levels of medical attention,” the to listen to their experiences in the field coordinator of the National Program for of medicine and guarantee the people’s the Strengthening of the Health Services wellbeing. Functional Networks, Dr. Carlos de la Representative of the World and Pan- Rocha, told The Havana Reporter. American Health organizations (WHO/ SUS is an initiative launched by PAHO) in Bolivia, Luis Fernando Leanes, President Evo Morales, who has called explained that the initiative fostered by for making health care universal. The the Bolivian leader has exceeded WHO’s preparation process of this initiative proposal. is conducted by the Health Ministry, In fact, this organization calls on regional authorities, health professionals governments to cover at least 17 percent and representatives of the people. of the population by 2023, while this From September 24 to October 12, initiative calls for providing free, quality 2018, ‘Meetings for Health and Life’ were attention to at least 51 percent of Bolivians. held in all nine departments of the South Leanes also commented that SUS American nation. These consultations is ahead in the fulfillment of the 2030 laid the foundations for the creation Sustainable Development Objectives, of a better model of health care and which target universal health care in all

management. the countries. Internet PHOTOS:

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Cuba & Eurasian Economic Community Foster Cooperation Meanwhile, the Cuban minister By IvetteFERNANDEZ said on the opening day that the meeting would represent the first of HAVANA.- Cuba is committed to several sessions that will allow creating diversifying trade and therefore relations solid basis to develop cooperation for with countries such as the members of the benefit of both parties’ economies. the Eurasian Economic Community (EEC), Malmierca highlighted the Cuban Foreign Trade and Investment importance that the Cuban Minister Rodrigo Malmierca said. government grants to the During a visit to Cuba by a participation of foreign capital in representation of the association the 2030 development program and grouping Russia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, praised the significance of Russian Armenia and Kirgizstan, the two sides investment in Cuba, as it has proven shared ideas with a view to increasing to be a driving force for the domestic trade in fields like biotechnology and economy. industry. A business forum was held as part Unexplored possibilities exist in of the Joint Commission to bring terms of cooperation, together with Eurasian and Cuban businesspeople others in sectors like biotechnology, together because, the minister noted, pharmaceutics, the chemical industry, oil this represents a decisive step for and mining, which could be even greater, strengthening economic collaboration. terms of trade, including customs EEC Integration and Macroeconomics The official also met with the president regulations, for example. Minister Tatiana Valovaya said during the of the EEC Council, Tigran Sargsyan, He also called to maintain first meeting of the Joint Commission. with both sides discussing prospects for a flow of information between Cuba-EEC trade grew 15 percent in bilateral cooperation. the two sides so as to provide 2017 and seven percent in 2018, “but we The two parties acknowledged that businesspeople with all the tools are not yet satisfied,” said Valovaya. there exist possibilities for increasing needed to foster trade. The official also commented it is relations and trade with the member At the end of the meeting the two necessary to diversify the scope of countries. sides signed the 2019 Joint Action cooperation in the financial sector, as well The EEC is a supranational organization Plan, which is the tool that will help as to strengthen trade with countries such and therefore, Sargsyan noted, it can implement the Memorandum of

as Kirgizstan, Armenia and Kazakhstan. offer Cuba advantageous conditions in Understanding signed last year. ManuelMUÑOA PHOTOS: 14 ECONOMY

Youth Unemployment on the Rise in Latin America

By IxchelFUENTES worsened in recent years and, according to analysts, HAVANA.- A recent study revealed that nothing indicates it might the average unemployment rate within get any better in the near the 15-24 age group in Latin America and future. the Caribbean totaled 19.6 percent at the In a context marked end of last year´s third quarter. by a significant financial Conducted by the International adjustment in 2018, when 20 Labor Organization (ILO), the survey out of 33 countries revised shows that the figure almost triples the their estimates downward, unemployment levels estimated for the job opportunities seem to entire region at 7.8 percent. mirror the decline. According to the analysis, one in every The youth five young person is looking for a job in unemployment situation vain; hence, over ten million people in by countries varies a lot. this age group remain unemployed. In Guatemala, for instance, In the meantime, the 18.3 percent only one out of 20 young

unemployment rate recorded in 2017 people is unemployed. Internet PHOTO: was considered the worst figure in a This largely contrasts with decade, as it grew three percent higher the situation in Saint Lucia, where almost Rica (26), Uruguay (26.1), Brazil (29) and Economic Commission for Latin America than that of 2016, said the ILO Office for one in every two people is affected by Santa Lucia (43.3). Meanwhile, two other and the Caribbean (ECLAC). Latin America and the Caribbean. this scourge. regional countries joined those figures at “As a result of this situation, thousands of The organization had then Brazil also has alarming figures, so the end of the third quarter of 2018. youths have decided to migrate,” she noted. commented that the situation could be much so that if it were excluded from the Women are the most affected by A study conducted by ECLAC and the defined as dramatic, all the more troubling total estimate, the youth unemployment unemployment, and the prevalence UN Food and Agriculture Organization as the young population in the region is rate drop to 12.7 percent rather than of of precarious jobs is higher within this showed that famers under 24 years of also facing an informal employment rate the reported 19.6 percent. group as well, according to ILO. age represent the highest number of estimated at 56 percent. Nonetheless, youth unemployment in “The jobs generated in Central emigrants in the region. Between 2012 and 2014, the number 2017 was over 20 percent in six countries: America nearly 250,000- are not enough Half of the latest number of emigrants of unemployed people aged 15-24 in Colombia (20.2 percent), Belize (21.3), for the young population,” said Alicia are under 24, and 25% of them are young the region stood at 14 percent, but it has Jamaica (23.9), Argentina (24.9), Costa Bárcena, the executive secretary of the children or under the age of 20. Guatemala Promotes Clean, Sustainable Energy

By MaitteMARRERO Guatemala to increase its annual exports to southern Mexico and Central America at GUATEMALA CITY.- Guatemala is one of the highly competitive prices. first Central American countries advocating In 2018, $164.6 million were obtained the use of renewable energy to produce from this sector, accounting for a 61.9 electricity, thanks to the water, wind and sun percent compared to 2017, according to the potential of its enviable geography. Central Bank statistics. The change in the power generation The 2018-2032 Plan to Expand the Power system began to gain ground in 2016, when Generation and Transport System aims 64 percent of ecofriendly energy sources at producing 80 percent of the country’s were used. This tendency has been on the electricity from renewable energy sources rise and allows greater independence from by the year 2027. fossil and oil-related products. As of September 2018, the hydroelectric The results registered at the end of 2018 plants linked to the National Interconnected and in January this year prove this is a good System contributed 1, 444, 27 MW. choice and that other options are yet to be Likewise, eight solar parks located in the practiced. Departments of Zacapa and Jutiapa supplied According to a recent report by the up to 91, 5 MW. Ministry of Energy and Mines, more than Meanwhile three wind farms in Villa 80 percent of the electricity generated in Canales, Guatemala; San Vicente Pacaya, that period was obtained from renewable Escuintla; and Agua Blanca, Jutiapa, sources, mostly hydroelectric resources (over generated 106, 5 MW. 60 percent) and biomass. The scheme is completed with two The system is completed with the use of geothermic plants in Zunil, Quetzaltenango, geothermic, wind and solar plants –the last and another in San Vicente Pacaya, Escuintla. two connected with the production of clean The 2032 goal is not ambitious if we and sustainable energy. take into consideration that Guatemala The high figures mainly result from the is currently using only 21.9 percent of its use of biomass, which is largely obtained water potential, and that the geographic during the sugarcane harvest from the conditions are perfect for small and middle burning of animal and vegetal organic hydroelectric plants. wastes such as sugarcane bagasse, among Although these plants captivate the others. market’s attention, the use of solar energy is All these elements allow to keep electricity gaining ground, not only within institutions prices stable and lower compared to those in but within the housing sector as well. the other Central American countries. Hence, Guatemala’s aspiration to become Thanks to the transformation of the the leader of this market in the region could power grid, the electricity surplus enables become true in the near future. Internet PHOTOS: SPORTS 15

Ibargüen vs Rojas: The Sports Rivalry of the Year?

By RaúldelPINO indoor competitions in Madrid, beating her own personal record for the indoor HAVANA.- There is no doubt that, as long category. as the athletes are still going strong, the Ibargüen has not participated in media will focus attention on the rivalry the competitions held so far this year, between Messi and Cristiano, Federer but everyone hopes she maintains the and Nadal, or LeBron and Curry, just physical conditions that earned her the to mention of few examples of today’s “best athlete of the year” distinction, greatest sport adversaries. granted by IAAF in 2018, in recognition of However, during the first months of her wins throughout the season. 2019, a number of experts from around And there is one ingredient that the world have begun talking about what makes their rivalry even spicier: both of could be the most attractive battle of this their coaches are Cuban. year’s sport calendar. UbaldoDuany has been Caterine’s The stage? A stadium with an oval coach ever since Beijing 2008, and has running track enclosing a grass field.The led her to all her wins in triple jump and, protagonists? Two women. Their names? more recently, long jump. Caterine Ibargüen and Yulimar Rojas. The other jumper´s coach is Iván Caterine was born in Colombia and Pedroso, one of the best long jumpers has won all possible titles for a triple of all times; Olympic gold medalist of jumper as a 35-year-old. Sydney 2000 and Cuba’s record holder in The other athlete, an intrepid 23-year- long jump, withstanding at 8.70 meters. old Venezuelan who has gloried in Therefore, we imagine that the duel international medals and recognition will not only be between the two athletes but has not yet won the Olympic title. For but among their coaches and supporters this, she would have to defeat her fellow as well. Track and field fans have many competitor. reasons to get excited and rally for their The two jumpers have had exceptional top pick. performances over the past three years: No matter what, we are sure to witness while Ibargüen was the Olympic winner a magnificent battle between these two in Rio de Janerio 2016, Rojas defeated her great athletes. in the World Championships of London 2017. Rojas missed almost the entire previous season due to an injury, but that didn’t stop her from winning the indoor world title again in Birmingham. The Colombian took advantage of her opponent’s absence from the outdoor season, winning every competition she participated in, including the Central American and Caribbean Games in Barranquilla, the Diamond League and the IAAF Continental Cup. The Pan-American Sports organization (Panam Sports) recently confirmed that the two jumpers will participate at the Lima 2019 Pan-American Games, where the Antioquia idol will try to defend her titles from Guadalajara 2011 and Toronto 2015. Needless to say, this will be the main attraction of the track and field competitions during the continental games, although other top level athletes are expected to amaze as well. The competition, set for the beginning of August at the Villa Deportiva National Stadium in the Peruvian capital, will be the prelude to the main event of the year: The Doha World Championships, taking place between the end of September and the beginning of October. The highly anticipated Diamond League where Ibargüen has won six consecutive medals will take place in between those competitions. However, it is still early to talk about final results and celebrations, as there is a long and taxing road ahead. On February 8, Rojas made a spectacular 14.92-meter jump during the Internet PHOTOS: 16