The Fight for Change of July 26Th

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YEAR X NO 7 JUL 4, 2020 HAVANA, CUBA ISSN 2224-5707 Price: 1.00 CUC / 1.00 USD / 1.20 CAN The Fight for Change of July 26th

P. 3 Cuba Spotlight Economy Cuban Doctors Return from Long Live Boosting Production with Lombardy, Italy the Rose of Cuba Local Resources

P. 5 P. 7 P.13 2 TOURISM CUBA 3 The Fight for Change of July 26th The Tourism Industry is the Key to Cuba’s Future Cuba Prepares for Gradual By TinoMANUEL employees of the tourism sector under the guidance of health professionals. Other tourism entities linked to the provision Return to Normality after HAVANA.- The cautious policy that Cuba has of services, such as the production of food implemented in the fight against COVID-19 and transportation, provided their services COVID-19 also means a well-balanced plan when life goes to hospitals and centers for the attention of back to normal in the country, especially in key vulnerable people. sectors for the Cuban economy such as tourism. In addition to the improvement of the tourism By ErnestoVERA As part of the Cuban government’s strategies, sector, the country also develops other strategic tourism reopen gradually for local tourists projects linked to the tourism industry, such as beginning on July 1, while hotels in a group hydraulics, renewable energy, agribusiness and of keys, namely Cayo Coco, Cayo Largo, Cayo telecommunications. Santamaría, Cayo Guillermo and Cayo Cruz will Until the emergence of the first cases in Cuba, be available to foreign tourists. the country annually received about 4 million In order to guarantee the success of the foreign tourists, in 74,000 hotel rooms – summer season, Cuban tourism authorities especially of four and five-star hotels. have focused on restoration and preparation However, the pandemic of the COVID-19 has efforts to create the conditions needed under caused the worst crisis in the tourism sector in the new health requirements entailed by the over 60 years, both in its economic structure COVID-19 pandemic. and its goals. Cuba’s tourist industry has been relentless, In spite of the strong impact of the disease, the History Will Absolve Me, Fidel Castro’s speech following the attack on July 26, 1953. carrying out improvements, even since the Cuban tourism industry is looking forward to pandemic was officially announced and the mitigate negative consequences as much as first cases detected on the island, local tourism possible and is preparing for the traveling to authorities said. start up again, though always giving priority to According to those specialists, amid the people’s health. aggravating factors – such as the pressures An example of these actions is seen at the of the United States – Cuba has shown that Varadero beach resort, where sand is being human beings are the main priority. poured, facilities are being renovated and Since the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic, the employees are getting ready to assume new Cuban tourism sector assumed the protocols work protocols for the careful reopening of the in place to face the disease adopted by Cuban sector, with an emphasis on health safety. Iconic Capri Hotel, in Havana. PHOTOS: Prensa Latina. health authorities for emergency situations, and hotels closed their commercial operations –while 90,000 foreign tourists returned to their respective countries of residency. Carlos Manuel de Céspedes Barracks in Bayamo. PHOTOS: Prensa Latina. At that moment, there were 42,000 Canadians, 6,000 Russians, 5,000 Americans, 4,000 French, By KarinaMARRÓN The military action against the Moncada – the and 3,000 Germans in Cuba. A small number of then second most important military fortress them are still in the country. in Cuba – and the Carlos Manuel de Céspedes Sources of the Cuban tourism industry indicate HAVANA.- On July 26th, every year, Cuba celebrates garrisons, as well as the attack to the Saturnino that this sector worked tirelessly towards the the National Rebellion Day, dating back to the attack Lora hospital and the Justice Palace, failed. improvement of facilities, from the moment on the Moncada and Carlos Manuel de Céspedes Then, the regime started to repress the people, Process of normality in the majority of Cuban provinces. PHOTO: Prensa Latina. that the pandemic was declared in Cuba and garrisons, in Santiago de Cuba and Bayamo, murdering 55 youth and listing them as ‘dead in the first cases appeared. respectively. In fact, that event represented the action’ – although only six actually fell during the HAVANA.- After three months of activities, as well as crowded spaces, According to those specialists, amid the birth of a popular movement that rose to power for attack. intensive work between different will be compulsory. aggravating factors – such as the pressures the benefit of the masses. However, their heroism and particularly the ideals sectors to contain the spread of After its interruption during of the United States – Cuba has shown that A group composed of over 150 youth, including two they defended – which Fidel Castro later on COVID-19, Cuba will begin a gradual the past few months, hospital human beings are the main priority. women, led actions in both cities of eastern Cuba – announced during his speech at court where he return to normality in three stages, services will restart gradually in the According to officials, hotels and their headed by historical leader of the Cuba Revolution was judged – became a real victory. focusing on the public’s health. coming weeks, and local tourism employees are using the current period to Fidel Castro. The Moncada Program, that Castro explained in During the first stage, gradual will be allowed. For now, the conduct maintenance and cleaning in all Their motivation was their love for their homeland, his speech – known as La historia me absolverá and asymmetric measures will be island is projected to open up to facilities, a task that is performed daily. which they wanted to be free again after the coup (History Will Absolve Me) – became the main adopted with regard to productive, international tourism in the second In addition, camping sites and lodging facilities d´état headed by Fulgencio Batista, on March 10, motivating factor that mobilized the Cubans. economic and social activities. phase, but in the country’s northern normally used for national tourism were 1952. Tired by the precarious situation they lived in, This would allow for several and southern keys only. temporarily used as isolation or quarantine However, Cuba’s situation at the time was more where unemployment, illiteracy, insalubrity and developments, while strengthening Transportation and other public centers throughout the country, attended by Las Terrazas Tourism Complex. intolerable than the tyrant of the moment, or the hunger prevailed, the said program united them the country’s capacity to cope with services, including juridical activities, fact that the constitutional order was roughshod in a common objective: building a revolution that the imminent, prolonged crisis. will restart progressively, depending and the postulates stipulated in the Magna Carta could sweep all of those evils away. The island will have to make a huge on their need, nature and social SOCIETY.HEALTH & SCIENCE.POLITICS.CULTURE approved in 1940 were rejected. These movements That was the seed of all the laws and social effort up against the economic, impact. The coming school year was ENTERTAINMENT.PHOTO FEATURE.ECONOMY were all about gaining true independence and transformations implemented in Cuba after the commercial and financial blockade agreed to begin in September. SPORTS.AND MORE restoring sovereignty from the United States, in overthrow of the Batista regime, as of January 1, imposed by the United States for 60 Productive, state, non-state and addition to giving a decent life to the most humble. 1959. Since the very beginning, those laws strayed years, which has been continuously commercial activities will be Cuban National Hero José Martí hoped to build far from the capitalist conception of economic and tightened since Donald Trump took resumed in conjunction, with some President: Luis Enrique González. Art Direction: Anathais Rodríguez Printing: Imprenta Federico Engels a republic with everyone’s wellbeing in mind, an social inequities and injustices, as Fidel Castro said. office in 2017. criteria in mind: saving, encouraging Information Vice President: Moisés Pérez Mok Graphic Designers: Fernando Fernandez Tito Publisher: Agencia Informativa Latinoamericana, ideal embraced by those who were later on called For that reason, in Cuba, July 26 is not a synonym of Cuban Prime Minister Manuel the production of food for the Editorial Vice President: Lianet Arias Chief Graphic Editor: Francisco González Prensa Latina, S.A. the Centennial Generation. pain and loss, but of rebirth and victory. It is a day of Marrero said the plan would include population and export as source of Chief Editor: Ilsa Rodriguez Santana Assistant Staff: Yaimara Portuondo Calle E, esq. 19 No. 454, Vedado, La Habana-4, Cuba. Sixty-seven years ago - on July 26, 1953 – those youth tribute and celebration; a permanent commitment three phases in the first stage. At the income for the country, committed English Editor: Mitra Ghaffari Advertising: René García Telephone: (53)7838-3496 / 7832-3578 hoped to increase popular awareness and in that to those who, that early morning, went to greet beginning, physical distancing and to cope with the crisis without Translation: Dayamí Interian/ Yanely Interián Circulation: Commercial Department. Fax: (53)7833-3068 E-mail: [email protected] endeavor, many courageous men lost their lives. change, in the arms of their homeland. the use of face masks during public renouncing development. 4 CUBA-U.S. CUBA 5 CUBA-U.S.: No Light at the End of the Tunnel Cuban Doctors Return from Lombardy, Italy By OrlandoORAMAS who worked at the main city hospital, a field hospital and By FaustoTRIANA center for senior citizens who tested positive for COVID-19 and other underlying diseases. HAVANA.- Ambassadors of health and soldiers of solidarity, The Cuban specialists offered about 5,526 consultations HAVANA.- A short answer to the unfair the medical brigade that provided its services in Lombardy, and saved 219 lives. relations between Cuba and the United Italy, returned home to Cuba. They fought COVID-19 in that Lombardy is one of the 20 regions that make up the Italian States laconically speaks for itself: complete region for two months, at a time when the epidemic that Republic. It has a population of over 10 million inhabitants darkness at the end of the tunnel. has caused over 33,000 deaths in that European country and a surface area of 23,863 square kilometers. Its capital The rest depends on many variables. The was at its peak. and most populated city is Milan. future of bilateral relations, the November Thirty-six doctors, 15 nurses and 1 logistics specialist – all Turin, the capital of the Piamonte Region, welcomed elections and the issues related to the of them members of the Henry Reeve Brigade - responded another medical brigade from Cuba, whose members are terrorist attack on the Cuban Embassy to the appeal of the Lombardy government. also fighting COVID-19. Another group - composed of 12 in Washington, are just some of the two The Henry Reeve International Contingent of Doctors doctors, 27 nurses and 1 logistics specialist - was also sent countries’ contentious issues at present. Specialized in Disasters and Serious Epidemics was created in to the Principality of Andorra. In order to go into depth, The Havana 2005 by historical leader of the Cuban Revolution, Fidel Castro. Reporter spoke with Ambassador Carlos The return of this group was very emotional and included Fernández de Cossío, responsible for tributes like the one organized in that Italy, headed by the ties with the United States at the Cuban Mayor of Crema Estefanía Bonaldi. Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Upon their arrival in Havana, the group was welcomed at At his office in Havana, with the sea and the José Martí International Airport by a video conference the powerful sun in the background, with Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel said: “You have the experienced diplomat offered his given a tremendous boost to solidarity.” explanation of different topics. Afterwards, during their transfer to La Pradera Health Center -Last year, the Donald Trump administration – where they will spend 14 days in quarantine – they were put a lot of strain on bilateral relations by greeted by the public, who waved banners and Cuban flags. ending several agreements in place prior. The members of this brigade included 27 doctors who had How much has this tendency affected ties, also fought the Ebola epidemic in Western Africa. and what could happen in the near future? This was the first of the 34 medical groups that Cuba has Relations have no doubt been affected. sent to 27 nations around the world in the last few months There is an open and evident policy of to fight the new coronavirus – these groups total 3,337 aggression towards Cuba on the part of the collaborators. U.S. government. They have defined it as At the farewell ceremony held in Milan, Regional Secretary such, as they have committed to increasing for International Relations Alan Christian Rizzi stated the economic blockade and other general the appreciation of the Lombardy Region authorities, coercive measures, which are in part the particularly its President Atilio Fontana, as well as the result of the application of the Helms- gratitude of the Lombardy people, for the support received Burton Act. PHOTO: Periódico Escambray. in this difficult situation. One must also consider the increasing Cuban Ambassador to Italy José Carlos Rodríguez also Cuban doctors return home from Crema, Italy. persecution of Cuba’s commercial and political class of that country allows. It cooperate with the fight against terrorism, is used to discredit, attack, denigrate or said goodbye in Rome to the members of the brigade, PHOTOS: Prensa Latina. economic relations with any part of the depends on what the political structures the diplomat stated that the United States justify coercive economic measures against world; the discredit campaigns against and those who have an interest in the U.S. knows, better than any other country, that countries that defend their sovereignty and our country; the funds, and the subversion foreign politics with Cuba allow. Cuba does cooperate with international do not cave to the will of the U.S. government. The preparation of the board of education policies against Cuba. -It is a fact that wide sectors of the U.S. efforts against terrorism. I must add that the United States needs Reopening Schools Post COVID-19 and educators during the first stage (of It has reached a point where drastic society and many politicians of both the There are bilateral agreements, signed to include Cuba on that list, and others, three) is essential for the restart of the measures have been taken, such as trying Democratic and the Republican parties in recent years, by virtue of which there because they have no way to justify the academic calendar, said the Minister. to deprive us of our oil supply - with the favor the rapprochement with Cuba that are concrete examples – some recent – of economic blockade, which is rejected by By RobertoHERNÁNDEZ in the number of hours of the educational on the television. Educational authorities “The health crisis has forced the Ministry damages it implies - and attacking Cuba’s happened in 2015 and 2016, which they cooperation with the U.S. government in the international community. periods, an unprecedented event in the closed the doors of the teaching centers to devise a well-defined strategy, looking international medical cooperation with considered a positive step for U.S. foreign regards to the fight against terrorism; some In regards to exchanges between the Cuban history of the country in over 60 years. on March 24, initially for a three-week after the wellbeing of students and their several countries, which benefit millions of politics and the benefit of both U.S. and of which are highly beneficial, especially to Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Department HAVANA.- Amidst the recovery stage Academic activities in the country had never period. families,” she added. people. Cuban interests. the United States. of State on the terrorist attack of the Cuban resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic, Cuba been brought to a halt prior, not even during On the date fixed for the reopening – April The 2019-2020 school year will be completed As a result, they punish not only our country For that reason, that government and its The most important thing is that this Embassy in Washington, he added that until announced that the 2019-2020 academic the 1990s economic crisis – a decade known 20 – the country had not passed the peak in two months, while the 2020-2021 will but also those who benefit from that help. stance can go as far as those groups and is a unilateral list of the Department of now, the U.S. government has refused to issue year will be restarted in September. in Cuba as the Special Period. of the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus, which start in November – a decision that implies Nonetheless, what we can expect of segments within the United States allow. State that has neither the support nor a statement and call it as it is: a terrorist act in The spread of the pandemic brought As many families don’t access the internet, happened a few days later. making curricular adjustments that have not the future and how far the current U.S. In relation to the recent inclusion of Cuba acknowledgement of any international body. the capital of their country against a foreign education to a halt and led to a reduction the best solution was to broadcast classes For three months – since the end of March been announced yet. government can go depends on what the on the list of countries that allegedly do not He stated that this list, like many others, diplomatic mission. until the middle of June – two national TV However, the restart of the academic channels broadcasted a class program for course will not return to the routine in different levels, in addition to study programs place until March 23, as guidelines were for university entrance exams– the date of already provided to add rooms in order which has not been rescheduled yet. to reduce the number of students in each In addition to the TV pedagogical guidance, classroom and thus mitigate physical the government decided that websites such contact. as Cubaeduca and virtual teachers would be A decision was taken to move forward the offered free of charge through an intranet maintenance processes in educational network. centers – generally done during the summer According to Minister of Education Ena – in most of the 15 Cuban provinces. Elsa Velázquez, the sector is getting ready According to local authorities, the idea is to follow the health measures established to guarantee conditions for the successful to avoid a second wave of the COVID-19 restart of the school year. In short, a decision epidemic, which has resulted in over 80 such as this one has an influence on almost deaths in Cuba. all Cuban families. Cuba gets ready to restart the school year. 6 CULTURE SPOTLIGHT 7 Alicia Alonso’s 100th Birthday Long Live the Rose of Cuba By MarthaSÁNCHEZ follow by thousands of dancers, said the BNC By MaríaMARTÍNEZ to the public, unprejudiced character, full professionalism current director general, Viengsay Valdés. and iconic image. The Cuban Prima Ballerina Assoluta died on Meanwhile, Cuban play director and scriptwriter Alfonso HAVANA.- Cuba’s National Ballet Company October 17, 2019 at the age of 98, in Havana, HAVANA.- Between tears and applause, the Cuban people Menéndez told The Havana Reporter that Fornés had (BNC) was planning to hold a number of events where she was born in 1920. Alicia was the bid farewell to famous dancer, singer and actress Rosita always surpassed all expectations. She did things no in 2020 to honor Prima Ballerina Assoluta Alicia last of the three BNC founders to die. She Fornés, whose legacy continues strong. director ever imagined and set new limits in many roles. Alonso in honor of her 100th birthday. created the company in 1948 together with She was nothing else than someone who shines light, said “I will always remember her as a natural and nice Many companies from around the world had her brothers Fernando and Alberto Alonso. Cuban poet, essayist and ethnologist Miguel Barnet, who spoke professional; but also as a good person, a great human RSVP’d to the announcement to celebrate Her strong technique, rectitude and about Rosita at the Colón Cemetery in Havana, after a funeral being, a friend and a dear advisor,” he noted. her day with what she liked most: dance. determination made her an example for procession that was honored by groups of people in the street. Barnet and Menéndez agreed that Rosita never argued with In March, the COVID-19 pandemic unexpectedly artists around the world, Viengsay Valdés It was Rosita’s will that she were buried there, together anyone. She was a woman of strong character and knew how brought the world to a halt, and governments told The Havana Reporter. with her beloved ones. Her country fulfilled her wishes and to defend herself, but she died humbly and self-fulfilled. canceled all public events to facilitate social It is impossible not to mention her as a her remains were brought from the United States, where “Rosita always gave her heart,” stated actress Mirta Ibarra. distancing, a measure needed to stop the reference within Cuban ballet, due to her she died on June 10. “I always admired her refined manner. She had that gift of spread of the new coronavirus. commitment to making our Cuban ballet Her only daughter, Rosa María Medel, said she was very minimizing the importance of prizes and awards. She was The organizing committee of the International school known in the entire world, taking honored because Fornés’ will had been honored. an extraordinary performer that was successful in theater Ballet Festival of Havana was forced to dance to another level,” Valdés stressed. “I thank you on behalf of my family. My mother played the and cinema. We’ll never forget Rosita. Her legend will not announce the suspension of the 27th It is hard to say now how Alonso’s 100th symphony of life marvelously,” she said at Martí Theater, be replaced,” she said. edition of one of the world’s oldest and most birthday will be celebrated at the end of shortly before the funeral procession began. Well done, Queen! and Long Live the Rose of Cuba! were prestigious dance events. 2020. However, before the pandemic broke Despite the social distancing measures advised these days to some of the expressions uttered by the crowd as the The BNC explained in a release that the out, the American Ballet Theater (ABT) mitigate the spread of the COVID-19 disease, lots of Cubans funeral procession passed by. decision was made due to the fragile situation was able to begin a series of international adopted health measures to pass through the theater and Crowds honored the star that never considered herself to of performing arts in the world as result of the tributes by staging “Tema y Variaciones” pay respects to one of the most versatile Cuban artists, be a diva. She was an excellent performer that captivated COVID-19 pandemic and consequent travel (Theme and Variations), a piece that Georges winner of national music, theater and television awards. her audiences, which enjoyed her beauty, sensuality and restrictions and social distancing measures Balanchine made in the United States for “She was the most versatile and charismatic Cuban artist of love. She deserves to go down in history as one of the adopted to protect the health of artists and Alonso to dance the leading role. recent times,” Barnet said, while recalling her charm, loyalty most beloved Cuban artists of all times. the public in general. Alicia and Fernando Alonso were part of the The celebrations marking Alicia Alonso’s U.S. company’s founding cast. They worked 100th birthday that were to be held during with ABT colleagues from New York and the festival were postponed for the end of Havana to create the first professional ballet this year, closer to the actual date of her birth dance company in the Cuban capital. on December 21. In the meantime, the 27th Ballet, as a strong universal language, is one edition of the festival will be held as usual of the artistic manifestations where Cuba- from October 28 to November 6, but in 2022. United States links have been maintained A series of homages announced to honor Alicia Alonso’s 100th birthday. Alicia Alonso is and will be an example to since they were first established. PHOTOS: Prensa Latina.

Together with Cuba’s oldest recording Company (EGREM), “Dale Candela” Offers Advice and Comic Relief the Cuban Film Industry (ICAIC) provided the video with a visual concept that alludes to Juan Padrón -a great Cuban animator and strip cartoonist- and his best works. “I was a close friend of Padrón and his brother Ernesto. They made the cover of my first album “La historia de Cuba” (Cuba’s History). I was very sad when he died. My father Modesto García was also a close friend of Padroncito. He made all the backgrounds for the film “Vampiros en La PHOTOS: Prensa Latina. Habana” (Vampires in Havana), he recalled. The new video references Dracula, Batman or “vampisol cubano,” where the bat is a symbol of evil; while alluding to relevant topics such as the U.S. President’s stance toward the SARS-COV-2 virus in his own country. In the current context, Trump’s recent statements calling people to drink disinfectants are “portrayed” in the video. PHOTO: UNEAC. “Ever since he was elected president, I have criticized Trump, who is the personification of many human anti- By ClaudiaHERNÁNDEZ actions and at least make people laugh amid this situation,” values like misogyny, arrogance, and dishonesty,” said said Virulo, the promoter of the National Performing Virulo. Association. I cannot understand how there are so many Cubans that support HAVANA.- Upon the confinement of coronavirus, trova music The Recording Company EGREM strongly supported this such a guy, whom I do not like at all. He is very dangerous performer and composer Alejandro “Virulo” García produced audiovisual, which is one of the many initiatives brought as a politician because he bases his strategy on ratings and the video “Dale Candela” (Light it Up), an authentic song forward by Cuban artists and institutions to cope with the superficiality. He behaves like a person that is inconsistent with shines a humoristic light on the present-day reality. global pandemic. the reality of the country he rules,” the Cuban musician added. “Light it up so that Corona dies,” says the chorus of the “As artists, we are living a unique moment, not only in terms Virulo does not believe in the muses that come in times of guaracha-son piece that encourages social distancing, of creation but also to assess the objective of our work. epidemic. At 65, he rather invokes inspiration with his lyrics, wearing face masks and washing your hands. ”Music and There are memorable artistic pieces about epidemics; I think which represent the roots and eloquence of Cuban culture. good humor are some of the best antidotes against the SARS- about Boccaccio’s Decameron, for instance. It is imperative His artistic career, which is depicted in the pages of his book “Mis COV-2 virus,” Virulo comments. to take advantage of these times as far as artistic creation,” memorias antes que se me olviden” (Here are My Memories, “I hope it helps Cubans deal with their daily routine, as the founder of the Center for the Promotion of Humor told before I forget them), will be forever remembered by the Cuban we are very fond of socializing. I intended to inspire good The Havana Reporter. people due to the quality and authenticity of his repertoire. 8 HEALTH & SCIENCE THE CARIBBEAN 9 INFORMATIVE SECTION Team Unity Starts Second Term of Office in Saint Kitts & Nevis By YodeniMASÓ held under the threat of the COVID-19 [email protected] pandemic, met the proper health measures to protect voters and counted on an HAVANA.-Team Unity, the coalition of adequate number of officials with face Prime Minister Timothy Harris, started its masks at their disposal. second term of office on June 8th after its In their assessment, the regional observers victory of the Saint Kitts & Nevis general acknowledged that voters exercised their elections. right without intimidation or fear and Headed by Harris, the three-political party stressed that Team Unity’s success shows alliance will use the next 5-year period the will of the people of Saint Kitts & Nevis. to tighten the progress made by the Team Unity’s candidates dominated six Federation in terms of peace, development of the eight seats available in Saint Kitts and prosperity for all citizens, the Prime against the opposition of former Prime Minister indicated. Minister Denzil Douglas and the opposing At the swearing-in ceremony, Harris thanked Labor Party (SKNLP). the public for its support and ratified his In those electoral districts, the PLP and responsibility to maintain the positive impact PAM political forces received the support of the policies and programs introduced in of 9,961 citizens versus the 8,049 the SKNLP both islands over the past five years. representatives received – of a total of The Head of Government highlighted Unity in St.Kitts and Nevis. PHOTO: Prensa Latina. 35,897 registered voters. the messages of congratulation and the In Nevis, Team Unity’s representative kind wishes received from the Caribbean Party (PLP) – the latter two, from Saint Kitts, consolidate the bonds of integration on an dominated all three districts with 3,510 Community (CARICOM) and the governments were reelected June 5 after their victory international level. votes, while the Nevis Reformation Party – of Saint Lucia, Antigua & Barbuda, Grenada in 9 out of the 11 electoral districts of the The CARICOM Mission of Observers - the adversary in that part of the Federation and Venezuela. Federation. responsible for supervising studies, the – received only 2,232 votes. The administration of Team Unity is Harris, the winning candidate since 1993, electoral process, the closing of the electoral According to official figures, about 24,000 composed of the Nevis Concerned Citizens ratified Team Unity’s commitment to increase colleges and recount votes - described the citizens exercised their right to vote in Movement (CCM), the Popular Action investment in the fields of agricultural elections as transparent, free and fair. 129 electoral colleges throughout Saint Movement (PAM) and the People’s Labor development and housing, as well as to The Mission also stressed that the elections, Kitts & Nevis. 10 HEALTH & SCIENCE PHOTO FEATURE 11 Cuba Creates Diagnostic Tests to Detect COVID-19 The Beauty of Baracoa: By CiraRODRÍGUEZ antibodies in recovered patients and those with an active Cuba’s Oldest Town infection, as well as to conduct serological prevalence studies in order to know the level of spreading in specific HAVANA.- The Immunology Trial Center, a Cuban institution population groups. Text & Photos Roberto F.CAMPOS Cuban Ministry of Tourism of the area, that has 33 years of experience in the development of In addition, this new product detects the level of antibodies envisions a promising future for Baracoa. diagnostic tests with full technological sovereignty, made the present after the application of a vaccine, and facilitates One of the region’s most attractive tourist first kit for early detection of people infected with COVID-19. the comparative studies of the levels of antibodies on HAVANA.- I have to admit that Baracoa is destinations is the Alejandro de Humboldt The kit in question, UMELISA SARS-Cov-2, was created to infected people. the Cuban territory that I like the most, not Park, which honors the German scientist detect the virus’ IgG antibodies in serum or human plasma. With this kit, Cuba has cheaper and more effective tests, only because it was the first town founded that once fell in love with this territory, In relation to this new product, director of the Immunology and the SUMA technology is available throughout the by the Spanish colonizers in Cuba, but also and with Cuba in general. Trial Center MSc Niurka Carlos Díaz explained that because country – which will facilitate testing on a large scale. because of its mix of nature and adventure, Baracoa is actually the province’s main of the presence of COVID-19 on the island, the center UMELISA SARS-CoV-2 is available to the national health full of beautiful landscapes, mountains, touristic draw, with different outdoor and started to develop several trial models to detect and system and could be inserted in the lab network. It was first rivers and beaches. cultural options that invite visitors to enjoy monitor the disease. tested in the field – a step that is part of its endorsement – Also known as “Ciudad Primada” (First City), its rivers, beaches, and traditional dishes, Although UMELISA SARS-Cov-2 is the first kit made in the and its results are being analyzed. Baracoa is located in the eastern Cuban especially those made with coconut and country, strategies continue, as the goal is to better study Cuba has 1,966 services that include the SUMA technology. province of Guantánamo, which has many chocolate. and understand COVID-19, to know what happens in the Of these, 233 are labs that have the equipment for diagnosis natural attractions as well as charming Baracoa has seven hotels and some body when a person becomes infected. and are directly related to the different health programs. urban areas. 500 private rooms, while the city of “Serological studies and diagnostic tests are as important At present, studies are being conducted to produce other Founded on August 15, 1511 under the Guantánamo has four hotels and Maisí, as molecular tests to know what phase of the disease a three tests: one, to detect total antibodies, which will name of Our Lady of The Assumption of where Cuba’s easternmost lighthouse is patient is undergoing to then apply an adequate diagnosis increase the probability of finding individuals exposed to Baracoa by the then Spanish Governor and located, now has two new hotels. and control,” said the specialist. the virus at a higher stage; the second, to find antibodies explorer Diego Velázquez, it is the oldest The majority of tourists that visit the area This kit allows for tracking contacts of people tested in people recently infected with SARS-Cov-2; and the third, Spanish settlement in Cuba on the record. are from Germany, France, Italy and Spain. positive for COVID-19, as well as knowing how many of to find the SARS-Cov-2 antigen and detect infection of the In 1518, it was proclaimed a city, as well as One of the most popular activities is them are asymptomatic. It also determines the levels of new coronavirus. New treatament to fight COVID-19. PHOTO: Prensa Latina. Cuba’s first capital and diocese. the excursion along the Toa River on It is due to its marvelous natural, cultural wooden boats, similar to those made by and historical attractions that Onelquis the indigenous population, who cut and Disasters caused by storms. PHOTO: Prensa Latina. Meteorology Institute (INSMET), explained getting stronger in the Caribbean and Ferrer Quindelán, the delegate of the decorated royal palms. to The Havana Reporter. of another formed over the Atlantic area The tropical storm Arthur developed on moving toward the Caribbean region. May 16, east of Florida Peninsula, while Meanwhile, there is a 60 percent chance Bertha formed on May 27 near South of Cuba being hit by one hurricane at Carolina, and Cristobal on June 2, in the least, the expert said. warm waters of the Campeche Bay, in the The Caribbean island is one of the few Gulf of Mexico. countries in Latin America that develops An average of 12 tropical cyclones –that its own weather forecasts of the cyclone is to say, tropical storms plus hurricanes- season, based on statistics and numerical normally develop in the Atlantic Basin (the models. However, it is impossible to Atlantic Ocean, the Caribbean Sea, and the determine with accuracy where or when Storm Season in the Caribbean Gulf of Mexico) one of the expected meteorological events during the hurricane season; subtropical will develop. By RosmerysBERNAL The cyclone or hurricane season in the events are not included in that number. Cuba has 14 Provincial Weather Forecast Northern Atlantic, Caribbean and Gulf of As many as 15 tropical storms have been Centers, 68 conventional stations and Mexico zone officially began on June 1 and predicted for the Northern Atlantic Basin, eight meteorological radars that allow for HAVANA.- Weather forecasts have come lasts until November 30. eight of which could be rated as hurricanes, early detection of weather events so as to to the conclusion that the number of A few days after the season began, three Llanes outlined. be better prepared for any phenomenon of tropical storms this year is likely to tropical storms were reported: Arthur, Of them, ten are expected to form over the this kind. break the average record in the Atlantic Bertha and Cristobal, which is a record Atlantic Ocean, two over the Caribbean and National institutions such as the Forecast Ocean and the Caribbean Sea; hence, number for a season in its early days, three over the Gulf of Mexico, she added. Center, the Maritime Surveillance Center the season is expected to be more active Dr. Miriam Teresita Llanes, head of There is an 80 percent likelihood of at and the Atmospheric Physics Research than usual. the Weather Forecast Center of Cuba’s least one hurricane developing and Center also contribute to this effort.

For 4 News Headlines per day for just $1CUC / month, Send an SMS with the letters PL to 8100 12 LATIN AMERICA ECONOMY 13 Chile: When Hunger Boosting Production with Local Resources Sits at the Table By RobertoSALOMÓN By RafaelCALCINES launched an emergency campaign known HAVANA.-Cuba is facing an economic crisis as a result of the as “Food for Chile.” As President Sebastián new coronavirus, hoping to boost production with the raw Piñera announced, 2.5 million families materials and the consumables available in the country, in SANTIAGO DE CHILE.- People protesting in would be given food boxes. spite of the financial restrictions and oil shortages. poor neighborhoods of Santiago de Chile But this aid, which will benefit only 70 President Miguel Díaz Canel, Prime Minister Manuel ask for food and soup kitchens to help percent of the country’s most vulnerable Marrero, and Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of those in need. homes, will not be granted so far and the Economics and Planning Alejandro Gil, have frequently Hidden behind an appearance of prosperity amount of food will not last longer than urged to face these limitations, which have been worsened based on consumerism by those that can one week for a home of four. by the economic, commercial and financial blockade the afford it, poverty and its worst consequence, Hunger is threatening regional countries United States has imposed on Cuba for over 60 years. PHOTO: Prensa Latina. hunger, come to light as one of the as a result of the pandemic, and in the case They have also urged to abandon the import mentality, many negative impacts of the COVID-19 of Chile, nearly one million people have promote foreign investment and create new exportable pandemic, which Chilean authorities have already been affected by food insecurity, COVID-19 pandemic broke out in the organizations, around one million people items – especially at the local level, where there is huge Cuba aspires to boost the fishing industry. hardly been trying to contain. said Julio Berdegué, the representative of country, some 600,000 Chileans had been lost their jobs. Other sources sustain that potential to increase foreign sales. In order to mitigate hunger and the needs the UN Food and Agriculture Organization suffering from food insecurity. However, the number exceeds two million. In this context, making better use of soil is essential in order to many other items that guarantee the activity of most of of millions of Chileans that have lost their (FAO) for Latin America. the government and part of the society The Economic Commission for Latin America increase the production of food - the most important objective the productive sectors. jobs or experienced wage cuts due to the This problem is not a new one in Chile. were ignoring this dire situation. and the Caribbean (ECLAC) has repeatedly at present in sight of the lack of foreign currency available. Thanks to its universal healthcare system and the scientific economic and social crisis, the government According to FAO statistics, before the Most of these people are poor and suggested that in order to palliate the social Cuban leadership suggested increasing short-season crops and technological progress made in this field, Cuba has immigrants, making up the over 46,000 consequences of the pandemic, governments such as vegetables in organic gardens, courtyards and Boosting the poultry sector. PHOTOS: Prensa Latina. not only been able to control COVID-19, but also to prove families in camps –poor neighborhoods of should assign a basic emergency income urban farming - which has highly expanded in the country. its solidarity and altruist vocation by sending brigades of makeshift houses. equivalent to a minimum wage over a six- Thus, setting sights on the soil instead of the ships has raising and others, because of the need to save fossil fuel. doctors to over 30 countries to fight the pandemic around However, FAO warns that at least some month period for all people living in those become a key strategy at present, when the country needs In relation to saving, a special working group has been the world. Guatemalan Tourism 400,000 more people would join them circumstances in 2020. to maintain and increase productive activity due to foreign created to daily monitor the consumption of electricity At present, except the capital, all the provinces of the due to the crisis worsened by COVID-19. That amount totals 215 million (34.7 threats. throughout the country – which controls consumption country and the special municipality of Isla de la Juventud Has Been Hard Hit This could be a modest figure if we take percent of the regional population), which Due to the difficulties mentioned, it is essential to complete under the foreseen plan, to avoid unpleasant power cuts. are undergoing the first phase of COVID-19 recovery, into account that, according to statistics would cost nearly 2.1 percent of the Gross ongoing investments in the tourism industry, produce food, It is worthwhile mentioning the role that the industry plays which includes the gradual incorporation of public by the Single Union of Workers and other Domestic Product. and develop renewable energy sectors, among other key areas. in all of these actions as, together with its entrepreneurial transportation services and the restart of other activities, In this context, it is also important to increase the use of groups, it facilitates the sugarcane harvest, agricultural without dismissing the measures established for personal clean sources of energy in activities such as irrigation, cattle production, the availability of spare parts and a great protection. The Road of Renewable Energy

By SamuelROBERTS The first bioelectrical plant of the program began By MaitteMARRERO remain open and Spanish language schools operating recently near the Ciro Redondo Sugar continue their classes online. Mill, which is the entity that produces most of the The average impact of the pandemic in March Cuba is boosting the development of renewable electricity in central Cuba. GUATEMALA.-Layoffs and closed services and April was 74 percent, but climbed to 82 energy due to its socioeconomic importance and The second plant of that kind will be built next characterize the reality of tourism in percent in May, with different levels of incidence impact on the country’s sectors. The goal is to increase to Batalla de las Guásimas Sugar Mill (some 500 Guatemala, a sector that is undergoing its depending on the sectors. the production of that kind of energy from where it kilometers east of Havana), sources from Azcuba most critical phase after it was brought to a Unemployment is affecting 100 percent of stands today at five percent to 24 percent by 2030. Sugar Business Group told The Havana Reporter. standstill nearly three months ago, due to the tour guides and museums, between 93 and 97 Even though Cuba has oil, both offshore and The two of them will use sugarcane, marabu emergency situation caused by COVID-19 in percent of parks, natural reserves and language onshore, it has to import the majority as the (Dichrostachys cinerea) and other plants that burn the country. schools, and between 80 and 84 percent amount extracted is not enough due to high quickly as sources of biomass. There is no doubt that the tourist industry is of event organizers, accommodations, tour prospecting costs, particularly in its Exclusive Zone In addition to the bioelectrical plant next to the Ciro in intensive care and needs special attention operators, car rentals, tourist transportation in the Gulf of Mexico. Redondo Sugar Mill, Cuba has 34,658 centers that use in order to recover its former vitality. and travel agencies. Therefore, the use of renewable energy sources is a renewable sources of energy, including over 10,000 Making comparisons help to understand the In addition to the vulnerability of people that are priority and indispensable to reduce inefficiencies solar heaters, 827 biogas plants, 187 hydroelectric complex scenario: by the middle of March – unemployed, the most worrisome are the definite in electricity and dependence on fossil fuels, as well plants and four experimental wind parks. when the first COVID-19 case was detected closures that reduce the sector’s productive as to contribute to environmental sustainability. and the government decided to close the infrastructure, meaning that recovery will be The Cuban government gives special attention to sector- only six out of ten hotels had reported more difficult, said Fabián Júarez, a member of the environmental sustainability, a topic at the forefront of a negative impact. Research and Social Studies Association. the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development Goals. However, the second poll conducted from Mynor Cordón, Director of the Guatemalan May 5 to 11 revealed that only two out of ten Institute of Tourism, admitted that one of the THE ROLE OF BIOMASS hotels were resisting the “strong winds,” as it future challenges will be to build confidence Of the renewable energy expected to be produced had been predicted at the end of April. to attract old and potential clients, analyzing by 2030, 14 percent would be obtained from According to Luis Rey, President of Guatemala’s the new needs of post-COVID-19 travelers. biomass, primarily from sugarcane which, according Chamber of Tourism, the few hotels still July 15 is the date initially agreed by the to experts, is the plant that makes the most use of operating are working at five to ten percent of government to begin reactivating the sector. the sun due to its high photosynthesis activity. its capacity, directly affecting jobs. All sights are set on local tourism, which is The remaining ten percent would belong to wind, Hotels, restaurants and tour operators are regarded as a catalyst for an economy that was photovoltaic, hydraulic and biogas energy. reporting the highest number of temporary expected to grow up to four percent. However, A total of 17 bioelectrical plants are expected to and permanent closures in recent times. In there’s now no doubt that it will close out 2020 be built using biomass, with capacity to generate the meantime, the majority of car rentals with negative numbers. some 500 MW altogether. PHOTOS: Prensa Latina. 14 CUBA SPORTS 15 Cuba’s Humanist Model: Athletes Set Sights on Tokyo 2021 A Lesson to the World By FidelMANZANARES Rose Mary Almanza and Roberto Skyers, By LauraBECQUER members of the Cuban national track and field team, suffered the postponement of the Tokyo Olympic Games due to the COVID-19 Cuba’s comprehensive and efficient response to the pandemic, but are already adjusting to unprecedented COVID-19 was evidence, once again, of the training for next year. success of its humanitarian model. Havana’s Calixto García Hospital, one of the many hospitals that provide free healthcare in Cuba. Rose Mary, 800m runner, set the 1:59.00-minute A few days after the implementation of the first recovery time required for the Olympics; however, after stage, and three months after the first COVID-19 case was Affairs Minister Bruno Rodríguez said on May 16, when a training period in Guatemala and three races confirmed on the island, the sociopolitical model in place presenting the Cuban report during the third cycle of the in Cuba, she was forced to make a new plan in in Cuba since 1959 once more showed that each human Universal Periodical Review of the UN Human Rights Council. order to adapt herself to the difficult times we being is prioritized by the government, over the market. Day care centers allow mothers to work. PHOTOS: Prensa Latina. Progress continues to be made to improve this humanist presently face. The asphyxiated Caribbean economy resulting from the work, especially amid the current conditions entailed “First, I was running at home and then I U.S. financial and commercial blockade and the tight state –either suspicious or confirmed cases- received their full by the economic blockade and financial persecution. was able to go out to keep my weight; it budget were used to palliate the epidemiological situation salaries, as stated by local authorities. However, one thing has been clearly demonstrated in the is complicated but technology helps a lot with resources assigned to the health, food and scientific The Cuban government’s priority was to relocate 53,573 handling of the COVID-19 pandemic: Cuba maintains its and my coach Francisco Ayala sends me his research sectors, as to constantly support and watch over people whose jobs were in affected sectors, such as commitment to the people’s rights and wellbeing. advice, constantly encouraging me not to vulnerable families. tourism and transportation, Minister of Labor and Social The Cuban social and health achievements speak for themselves. lose motivation,” said the 28-year old runner. Some 4,624 social workers provided attention to people in Security Marta Elena Feitó sustained. Cuba not only has high-quality education for all but it is also After a series of competitions held in Havana, need and, together with the private sector, helped provide In addition, the international solidarity as a response to Cuba’s known for its outstanding results in health, such as the eradication the four-time Caribbean champion in health resources, deliver food and notify local authorities medical brigades, sent to other countries to jointly fight the of mother-child HIV transmission and congenital syphilis. Barranquilla 2018 commented that her sights of possible positive cases. deadly disease, was significant. The respect, admiration and Likewise, in 2006, Cuba was elected full and founding member are set on the Olympics, “because nothing Joining them were medicine students, who performed gratitude of those countries was manifested in each life saved. of the new Human Rights Council, called to overcome the will make me change my focus.” house visits, checking for potential sick people so as to The Cuban government’s response to COVID-19 was as selective and double standards of the former commission, Lima 2019 Pan-American runner-up, Almanza send them to isolation centers fitted for this purpose. expected. It is not the first time that the Caribbean island despite politicization and defamatory campaigns against it. says that they’re currently working on During the pandemic, all government workers received reiterates its commitment to help those in need. Many are the examples of Cuba’s accomplishments in improvements; “we made new adjustments Japanese capital – from July 23 to August 8, athletes and I hope our relay can qualify their full salaries the first month- despite the social This willingness to protect human dignity, provide equal human rights. Its very response to COVID-19 was a hard for the 300 meters and I have had good results.” 2021 – is Roberto Skyers, national record holder for Tokyo. I have particularly suffered a distancing measures adopted since day one of the disease. opportunities and achieve as much justice as possible has blow to anti-Cuba politicians and people that were These days, the Rafael Fortún Chacón athletics in the 100m with the time of 9.98 seconds. lot of injuries but I thank the National The 7,126 workers that remained in quarantine for 14 days remained unchanged up to current day, Cuban Foreign expecting chaos and a sanitary crisis in the country. track, in Camagüey – about 540 km east of “This pause because of the pandemic, commission for giving me the time to rest Havana – bears witness to her training. “It’s notwithstanding the adjustments, has helped and think about new strategies.” been motivating because I am also close by to me a lot; I have been able to think about what I For Cuban sprinters, their performance in my family. I can’t think about what will come have done, right and wrong, in my sport career. Tokyo is important, especially for a country after Tokyo 2021; I now have to wait and get The wait is the same for all who hope to qualify that has headed the Caribbean region in ready for the competition,” she stressed. for the Olympic Games,” said the sprinter. world championships and international

Another member of the Cuban team who Skyers, 28, is very excited staying in shape, sport events, with champions such as high 800 meter runner Rose Mary Almanza qualified for the Tokyo 2021 hopes to participate in the Olympics at the “although there are many talented young jumper Javier Sotomayor. Olympic Games. PHOTOS: Prensa Latina.

were organized in Cuba, after the suspension of trips, social distancing actions and strict security measures adopted Virtual Checkmate around the world. The island also organized the Online Chess League, with games that brought male and female players from all in the Times of Coronavirus categories face to face. In the meantime, Cuba’s most outstanding players had excellent performances at the By JhonahDÍAZ first online Ibero-American Chess Competition. Although the online alternative is not new, it seems that online games will have a major role in contemporary chess, Since the beginning of the isolation period due to the an opinion shared by the International Chess Federation, SARS-COV-2 coronavirus, chess players have found an which highlighted the amazing increase of online audience alternative to keep the flame of the game alive. In response over the past three months. to COVID-19, the use of online games increased around “We have had a 30 to 40 percent increase and have broken the world, including in Cuba. all records of daily games (between amateurs) and of new After several events that boosted the confidence of members,” said Nick Barton, the Development Director of Chess. specialists and organizers, the 55th edition of the José com, a website specialized in the so-called “science game.” Raúl Capablanca Memorial Chess Tournament carried out With 35 million users, the website registers 4.5 million daily a historic competition, with over 200 participants from PHOTO: Internet. games in normal times; the games have doubled over the different countries. last few weeks, totaling almost nine million. The sporting calendar was recovered in May, as three The Capablanca in Memoriam Competition survived “We have had days with more than 50,000 new members. groups (Elite, Premier and Open) competed in the online the global crisis through the website www.lichess.org. Everything has skyrocketed in recent weeks,” stated Barton tournament, becoming most important event of its kind Cuban experts played against competitors from across when exemplifying one of the things people can do in in the Americas. the continent, such as Venezuelan Eduardo Iturrizaga and quarantine. Canceling the event completely due to the pandemic was Argentinean Florencia Fernández, who were triumphant Stars like world champion Magnus Carlsen have fostered not an option for organizers. “It was our way of dealing with thanks to their skillful moves. different initiatives, interesting monetary prizes have these difficult times,” said Carlos Rivero, Cuba’s National But that was not all. The International Tournament accompanied online competing and the world has Chess Commissioner. “Guillermo García in Memoriam 2020” and other events adapted to virtual checkmates during COVID-19.