THE © YEAR VII Nº 15 AUG 15, 2017 HAVANA, CUBA avana eporter ISSN 2224-5707 YOUR SOURCE OF NEWS & MORE H R Price: A Bimonthly Newspaper of the Prensa Latina News Agency 1.00 CUC, 1.00 USD, 1.20 CAN International Solidarity with Cuba Remains Solid Despite Trump

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Health & Science Culture Photo Feature Economy ELAM, Cuba’s Summer Jazz at Cuban Beaches, Cuban Tourism Up, Humanitarian Havana’s Summer’s Up and Project “Alicia Alonso” Magnet Away P.5 P. 6 P. 11 P.14 2 CUBA

HAVANA.- The presence of solidarity Caravan, said that “when it comes to groups from the United States in Cuba solidarity work, Pastors for Peace Cuba’s National Day of Rebelliousness has no vacation or spare time.“ (July 26) festivities has re- The organization‘s executive confirmed the solid commitment by director, Gail Walker, said that this organizations and individuals from year‘s solidarity initiative, first the neighboring country to defend undertaken 25 years ago by Reverend the Socialist Revolution. Lucius Walker, was an expression of Representatives of groups like the the willingness of social movements, Venceremos Brigade and Pastors for religious organizations and Peace visited Cuba in an open challenge individuals from the United States to the White House‘s confrontational and other countries to defend Cuba’s policies to experience the island‘s reality right to build a peaceful future. firsthand and participate in celebrations Activists from other countries to mark the 64th anniversary of the joined the festivities to mark the attacks on the Moncada and Carlos aforementioned attacks in 1953 Manuel de Céspedes garrisons, for in Santiago de Cuba and Bayamo, which this year’s main event was held respectively, under the leadership of in the western province of Pinar del Río. Fidel Castro. During numerous encounters The attacks denoted the beginning with the media and with the people, of the armed struggle against the activists stated that the tightening of tyranny of Fulgencio Batista. Washington‘s Cuba policy, announced As an expression of its commitment by President Donald Trump on June to Cuba, the 16th Juan Rius Rivera 16, had served to reinforce their Solidarity Brigade, from Puerto Rico, determination to defend the Revolution undertook voluntary work in agriculture and to demand an end to the U.S.- and met with workers, combatants, imposed economic, commercial and young people, athletes and artists financial blockade. throughout the country. By sharing moving experiences The 60-strong group, led by the and reflections, Venceremos Brigade activist Milagros Rivera, paid tribute in representatives compared Cuba‘s the city of Santa Clara to Argentinean- socialist system with that of the US and Cuban Guerrilla Commander Ernesto sternly criticized the inequalities that Che Guevara, who was assassinated in seriously affect their country‘s children, Bolivia 50 years ago. senior citizens and immigrant and Moreover, the 47th European African-American populations. José Martí Brigade of voluntary work According to the activists, their and solidarity with Cuba fulfilled a periodic visits allow them become tight agenda to learn more about the acquainted with Cuban reality and country‘s situation and its people.

International Solidarity with Cuba Remains Solid Despite Trump By ErnestoVERA MELLADO

facilitate their work to raise awareness, Activists stayed at the Julio Antonio organize politically and mobilize Mella International Camp, in the support for the development project western province of Artemisa, where freely chosen and defined by the friends from around the world regularly island nation. share agricultural and other solidarity Luis Barrios, a member of the U.S. work experiences and express their inter-religious platform that formed support for Cuba‘s right to construct part of the 28th U.S.-Cuba Friendship its future in peace. FotosPl PHOTO: CUBA 3 "The Trump Factor" in Cuba-US Relations By DionySANABIA

WASHINGTON.-The second anniversary On June 16, US federal entities of the re-establishment of diplomatic published their guidelines on the relations between the United States changes in documents that included and Cuba last July 20 was notable for questions and answers on the new the backward steps in the bilateral measures. relations as a result of Washington’s According to the Office of Foreign new stance. Assets Control, of the Department of Two monthS ago, US President the Treasury, regulatory amendments Donald Trump announced some policy will be issued in the coming months changes on the Caribbean nation to and the changes would not come into revert some of the progress promoted effect until the relevant regulations are by his predecessor, Barack Obama, that announced. started on December 17, 2014. On "people to people" visits to Cuba by On that date, the then Democrat US citizens – now to be made only in groups, president and Cuba‘s Head of State, as individual visits are again prohibited – Raúl Castro, announced that both the reports indicate that travelers should countries would open a process maintain a complete schedule of their towards the normalization of relations. educational exchange activities. Then, Havana and Washington These groups will be supervised by a conducted a range of talks on issues representative of the entity organizing of mutual interest and reopened their their stay on the island, something respective embassies in the summer that had also been eliminated by the of 2015. Apimages PHOTO: Obama administration. In the intervening two years until last environmental protection; assistance application of the economic, Trump said that his strategy aims January 20, when Obama‘s presidency in the criminal field and the prevention commercial and financial siege, he did to enforce the prohibition on people ended and Trump took office, Cuba and of money laundering. not use all the available prerogatives from the US traveling as tourists to the the United States adopted 22 bilateral In excess of 20 round-table talks and after Trump’s announcements of Caribbean nation and to limit trade to instruments to advance their declared were also held on law enforcement last June 16, Washington once again "prevent money going to the Cuban common purpose. and compliance, telecommunications, chose the path of confrontation. State." As a result, both sides signed human rights, mutual compensation, The Republican president Last July 14, Raúl Castro told the accords, memoranda of understanding disarmament and the non- proliferation announced his government’s change closing session of the 9th Ordinary and treaties on animal and plant of weapons. of stance in the city of Miami, Florida, Session of the National Assembly‘s 8th health, migration, shipping safety, The United States removed Cuba and after an inflammatory speech he Legislature, “it is evident that the US rescue operations, regular flights and from its List of States that Sponsor signed a National Security president has not been well informed the fight against drug trafficking. Terrorism, and Raúl Castro and Obama Presidential Memorandum on the on Cuban history, its relations with the Agreements were also reached met and talked on three occasions, Strengthening of United States Policy United States nor about the patriotism on direct postal services, agriculture, the latest when the African-American on Cuba. and the dignity of the Cuban people”. healthcare, meteorology, seismology, president officially visited Havana, in The document imposes further Raúl also cautioned that the US protected sea and land areas and the March 2016. bureaucratic barriers to restrict travel government has decided to intensify twinning of the Ciénaga de Zapata Almost a week before the end of by US citizens to the Caribbean island the blockade and to justify such swamplands with the Everglades his term in office, Obama abolished and the elimination of individual measures with a return to an old and national parks. the "wet foot- dry foot policy" and the educational visits. hostile Cold War rhetoric. The two countries also signed a parole program for Cuban doctors, It also prohibits economic, “Trump’s decisions do not reflect treaty on the demarcation of the Gulf of which promoted hazardous and illegal commercial and financial transactions the support of large and important Mexico’s Eastern Continental Platform migration to the US. between US companies and Cuban sectors in the US for the normalization beyond the 200 nautical mile limit. However, as the Cuban government entities linked to the Revolutionary of relations, and respond only to the During the same period, both has reiterated, the persistence of the Armed Forces and intelligence and interests of a small group of Cubans in nations held over 50 technical meetings US blockade of the island – a policy security services. southern Florida, which is smaller and and cooperated on cybersecurity and in place for almost six decades – The Cuban government has stated more isolated every day, and which the battles against drug trafficking, continues to be the main obstacle for that such obstacles are in addition to insists on harming Cuba and its people terrorism and migratory fraud. the normalization of bilateral relations. the already limited opportunities the for defending, at any cost, its right to Dialogue on other topics included Although Obama implemented US business community has to trade be free, independent and sovereign,” maritime and aviation safety; several measures to modify the with and invest in Cuba. he added.

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: Laura Reyes. Publisher: Agencia Informativa Latinoamericana, Information Vice President: Hector Miranda. Chief Graphic Editor: Francisco González Prensa Latina, S.A. Editorial Vice President: Lianet Arias Advertising: Yeney Domínguez Calle E, esq. 19 No. 454, Vedado, La Habana-4, Cuba. Chief Editor: Luis Melian Circulation: Commercial Department. Telephone: (53)7838-3496 / 7832-3578 Fax: (53)7833-3068 Translation: Juan García/ Sean J. Clancy/Yanely Interián Printing: Imprenta Federico Engels. E-mail: [email protected] 4 CUBA Bipartisan Support For Cuba in the US By Martha AndrésROMÁN

WASHINGTON.- The president of a US based shadow arrangements, would engage with coalition that promotes links with Cuba has the public and listen to experts on both sides told The Havana Reporter that “bipartisan to promote real dialogue.“ support for the rapprochement with Cuba “That would be the best path, that the has grown steadily in the United States over governments sit together and talk; that the last two years, and will continue to do so. people talk to each other and that the James Williams, President of Engage process is not controlled by a few.” Cuba, expressed his regret at the Williams said that he was unsure about announcement by President Donald the role now to be played by agencies with Trump last June to revert certain aspects responsibility for the new measures, as these of progress in bilateral relations, which he were already alienated from the revision of considers a step back on the path towards the policy on Cuba.

the normalization of relations. Cubadebate/Pool PHOTO: “Will they have a role now? I hope so. He noted; however, that despite such visited the Island. Trump said that travel by US citizens to the Their technical experience is essential to the moves, there is still strong support for Williams, whose organization seeks to Island would be restricted and that economic, preparation of regulations, but that does not efforts to continue working towards a closer end the economic, commercial and financial commercial and financial transactions necessarily mean that the administration will relationship with the neighboring country, blockade imposed by Washington on the between US companies and Cuban listen to them,” he said. with which the United States re-established biggest island in the Caribbean, added that “if counterparts linked to the Revolutionary He highlighted that Engage Cuba is diplomatic relations on July 20, 2015. the Trump administration is not going to play Armed Forces and the intelligence and endeavoring to explain to as many people as “We are holding talks with Cuba as never a constructive role in the rapprochement security services would be prohibited. possible on Capitol Hill, in the White House, before, and they are very different now to process, others have to occupy that space “The announcement made on June 16 the agencies and the state governments those of even two years ago,” Williams said. and continue building bridges.” was a political speech and a directive on why bilateral relations are so important. He described such progress as a great “I think we are already seeing this and presidential policy, but the interpretation of “Most of the people involved are waiting achievement for both countries and for we will see even more. More members of how it will be regulated is what will have the for the new directives to be implemented the people in the US who believe that Congress and the government will travel real impact,” Williams explained. three months after the presidential rapprochement is the path to follow after 55 to Cuba, as will others who perceive the The Engage Cuba president wants the announcement, but anything could happen years of a failed policy of restrictions. ineffective leadership in this regard and voices of Cuba‘s people -- including those of until then, because federal authorities have He added that although some hardline want to take it up,” he noted. the private sector -- to be heard. other tasks, problems and important issues politicians want to change things, it is Commenting on the work underway This should not only be about norms to address, ” he added. obvious that the context can never be the by his coalition following the presidential designed in the wings by a group of Williams concluded by saying that, in same because of the progress made in areas announcement, he said that they are politicians in Washington. any case, because there is a limited time such as enhanced air and cruise ship travel focusing on the regulations due to be issued Williams stressed his hope that frame, they continue to work on ties to schedules, business exchanges and the over the coming months. "bipartisan leadership would lead to this the neighboring nation as if tomorrow increased number of US citizens who have On signing his memorandum on Cuba, and that the White House, before making did not exist. HEALTH & SCIENCE 5 Swiss Green ELAM, Cuba’s Energy Boat Humanitarian Project Drops Anchor in By Reina Magdariaga Havana By Ana Laura ARBESÚ Vladimir Molina PHOTO:

HAVANA.- The Latin American Medical laboratories, classrooms and auditoriums School (ELAM) is consolidating its role as equipped with state-of-the art a humanitarian project designed by the technology to guarantee that the doctors historic leader of the Cuban Revolution, of the future are professionally trained. Fidel Castro, by graduating 28,500 In this regard, the academic staff physicians from 103 countries since 2005. expect the physicians, who receive high- Each school year, the school, located quality scientific, humanistic, ethical in northwestern Havana, in what was and solidarity-focused training, to formerly the Granma Naval Academy, work in their countries of origin and to makes Fidel‘s dream come true by contribute to the sustainability of their converting humble young students from nations‘ healthcare systems. Latin America, Africa and the United States into qualified health care professionals. ON BEHALF OF GRADUATES The school received its first students from Nicaragua in February 1999. Palestinian Doctor Areej Saab Azmi Internet PHOTO: In the recently concluded 2016- Alkhawaga said at the ceremony “you, HAVANA.-The "Odyssey Race for Water", is dedicated to water conservation 2017 school year for example, 742 our professors and staff, were our a green energy powered boat, dropped and aims to identify, reinforce and students from 71 countries received family during this long journey and as anchor in Havana Bay as part of a 2017- implement solutions that add value to their certificates at the 13th graduation Fidel wished, we are now graduating as 2021 second circumnavigation of the plastic refuse by creating new sources ceremony, attended by -- among others doctors for Cuba and for the world.“ globe. of income for those most adversely -- representatives of the diplomatic Our time to leave has arrived, but we During its stay in Cuba, The Race for affected by contamination. corps accredited in Cuba and members will always carry this island in our hearts, Water Foundation sponsored project The project’s educational agenda of the 28th U.S.-Cuba Friendship in our science and in our consciences. offered on- board workshops about promotes five basic ecologically- Caravan, The school‘s academic Wherever we are, we will thank Cuba plastic waste management and ocean sound initiatives, among which figure deputy rector, Maritza González, urged for its support for our countries and conservation as well as guided tours of suggestions to reject disposable plastic graduates to echo the words of Fidel especially my beloved Palestine. Thank the 35m long vessel, thought to be the bags in favor of those made from from more than 17 years ago, when you, ELAM”. world‘s largest hybrid catamaran. renewable materials, to always carry a he said, “you graduate with as much On behalf of the ELAM graduates‘ The futuristically designed craft with reusable shopping bag, to not dump conscience as science and become, parents, Azmin‘s mother noted that its French crew and team of German plastic bags or cigarette ends in the along with those who have graduated the graduates had assumed their and Norwegian scientists, visited Cuba street or down the drain and whenever before you, protagonists of that great humanitarian responsibilities and were between July 21 and August 8. possible, carry and use a flask. task, the international solidarity now committed to saving lives in their Foundation director Serge Pittet Cuban children and youth had the demonstrated by this small island.” own countries. said during the welcome ceremony opportunity for a first-hand learning That, González said, was Official statistics reveal that in the that interactions related to the experience about this novel project, the indispensable to reinforce the unity 2016-2017 school year, 14,685 medical discovery of solutions to the problem first such sun, wind and sea powered of our peoples‘ and ELAM is building professionals and health technicians, of plastic waste pollution was one of craft on the planet not to emit carbon that unity for a more humane world, including 920 doctors from 79 foreign their primary objectives. dioxide into our atmosphere. she added. countries, graduated from Cuba‘s He added that "team work and the The visit was arranged jointly The Latin American Medical School’s universities of medical sciences. raising of awareness about our reality by Cuba’s Science, Technology and primary purpose is to train general Throughout the Revolution, an are the keys to real change and the Environment Ministry, The Swiss physicians to practice in the provision impressive total of 164,920 Cuban only true guarantee that we bequeath Embassy in Cuba, the Cienfuegos of primary care as the basis for their and 33,973 foreign physicians from a better world to future generations." Center for Environmental Studies and professional careers. 129 countries have graduated from The Swiss Race for Water foundation the Race for Water Foundation. To that end, the project has modern such institutions. 6 CULTURE Summer Jazz at Havana’s "Alicia Alonso" By AlainVALDÉS Courtesy of ACN PHOTO: Miguel Guzmán Ruiz PHOTO: Zamora Yander PHOTO: HAVANA.- The Cuban Music Institute has declared told The Havana Reporter. Theirs is an almost century-long legacy, recognized August a “jazz month“ and announced a series They added that the program’s principal concert by fellow artists, experts and relevant authorities that of special concerts at Havana’s emblematic “Alicia performance on August 26 will be by the Cuban explains the UNESCO decision to select Havana as the Alonso“ Grand Theater on the last three weekends of pianist Hernán López Nussa and the Familia López venue to celebrate International Jazz Day 2017 . the month. Nussa project, which includes his brother Ruy and his During her visit to Havana to mark the occasion, The historic theater is hosting performances by nephews Harold and Ruy Adrian. UNESCO General Director Irina Bukova acknowledged renowned Cuban jazz¨musicians that will also feature Another highlight promises to be “Jojazz in that Havana had been the right choice, because it is "a concert music, in a popular expression of high culture. Concert‘, a project conceived for emerging jazz global cultural center of great importance.“ The initiative to promote quality music is musicians featuring saxophonist Michel Herrera, Festivities for International Jazz Day, held in Havana sponsored by Cuba’s Culture Ministry following a trombonist Eduardo Sandoval and pianist Alejandro for the first time, consisted of a week of concerts, jam week long recognition of International Jazz Day in Falcón, who will premiere pieces from their upcoming sessions and academic meetings, and its colophon Havana, the high point of which was April 30. “Mi Monte Espiritual“ album, for release on the was the “Alicia Alonso“ Grand Theater of Havana, The August concerts included performances by Producciones Colibrí label. where stars like Herbie Hancock, Chucho Valdés, Ivan Chucho Valdés and Gonzalo Rubalcaba, Cuba‘s most Concert music performances will include Camerata Lins, Gonzálo Rubalcaba, Carl Allen, Kenny Garrett, internationally renowned jazz musicians over the past Romeu, an all female ensemble directed by Maestra Igor Butman, Takuya Kuroda, Esperanza Spalding and few years. Zenaida Romeu. Marc Antoine, performed. Award-winning Valdés performed on August 12 These jazz concerts in August pay tribute to Cuba‘s In a nutshell, lucky lovers of this most universal and Rubalcaba -- also an international prize winner -- long musical tradition at the genre’s peak, thanks genre passing through Havana in August will be will play on August 19, two luxury opportunities in the to the many musicians who are considered classical enchanted by a musical conspiracy between a jazz context of their very tight agendas, event organizers contributors to the creation of this music cult . city and a great jazz theater. Cuba to Host 2nd Primera Línea International Music Forum

HAVANA.- The Cuban Music Institute by the German institution Endirecto (ICM), the Ministry of Culture and several and the Cuban record labels Egrem, Bis local record companies are organizing Music, Abdala and Colibrí. the 2nd Primera Línea International According to organizers, the forum Music Forum, which will bring together aims to showcase Cuban music and artistic units after visiting every music of Cuban Music, Laura Vilar, the experts some 150 foreign delegates from its potential and to promote possible company in the country. will also reflect on music genres and September 20 to 23. working relations between those During the forum, experts from opportunities from all over the world, They will be joined by more than 400 involved in the world music market and several countries will analyze new as well as on possibilities in Cuba. Cuban experts at the Alejo Carpentier Cuban institutions as a means to hire technologies on the music market, The foreign delegates‘ agenda will Hall of the Alicia Alonso Grand Theater artists. copyright management and free access include visits to places of interest such of Havana, where an academic forum The second edition of the forum will to information, the management of as the country‘s recording studios and and a commercial fair to exhibit be dedicated to music professionals musicians in light of current industry live music venues. musical products and projects from the and will consist of concerts, called demands and the prospects for both After the event has closed in Havana, participating companies will take place. showcases, from which participants recorded and live music. the foreign participants will visit The event, part of the WOMEX circuit will be selected by a national and According to the director of the Matanzas, Cienfuegos, Trinidad and Villa (The World Music Expo), is sponsored international jury that will choose 15 Center for Research and Development Clara, in western and central Cuba. SPOTLIGHT ON 7 SPOTLIGHT ON Alicia Alonso, Still Rising in Ballet’s Pantheon Text and Photo by EduardoRODRÍGUEZ-BAZ could not have been more appropriate: the 35th performing arts into Spanish higher education. World Congress of Performing Arts in Segovia, whose The director added that "in addition to her career historic center and aqueduct were declared a World as a ballerina and founding teacher of schools that Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1985. include the renowned Cuban ballet school, which Alonso, who is also a choreographer and director has been declared an invaluable contribution to of the National Ballet of Cuba said that she felt very humankind‘s heritage,” the tribute was also for her grateful and honored by the acknowledgement “work in the field of art therapies.” from the UN agency, the same that several years ago García Castaño, who is also the director of the nominated her a Goodwill Ambassador. Dance Institute of the Rey Juan Carlos University, Alberto García Castaño director of the Spanish which was named after the world-famous Cuban center of the International Theater Institute (ITI- choreographer, referred to Alicia Alonso’s creation of UNESCO), said that they had wanted to pay a special psycho-ballet, a therapy recognized by UNESCO. tribute in this framework to Alicia Alonso „for her For the intellectual who believes in transforming career, for everything she has achieved, for her artistic the world through art, Alicia Alonso’s greatness is teaching, her devotion to dance and for her solidarity not only due to her talent for reinventing classics with the countries of the world. and giving them new personalities, but also to SEGOVIA, SPAIN.- Although with enough merits García Castaño praised the first lady of ballet in an her teaching and her work in the field of social to carve her name among the great goddesses of interview with The Havana Reporter, for her defense integration through dance. universal ballet, the mythical Cuban ballerina Alicia of Cuban culture within the arts and for being an In what was a moving speech in Segovia, the Alonso added another title to her prolific career, example of cultural diplomacy. Spanish flamenco dancer, choreographer and actress World Ambassador of Dance. He emphasized that Alicia “had demonstrated Cristina Hoyos, who was also awarded a World On July 22, the United Nations Educational, that art surpasses all ideological and political Ambassador of Dance title, expressed the gratitude Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) borders, because it is universal and as such, belongs of both for the acknowledgement. bestowed the distinction on the prima ballerina to everyone and holds no passport.“ Hoyos, who joined the Antonio Gades company assoluta‘, who has received an extraordinary myriad He recalled her establishment back in 1992 of the in 1969 and was his dance partner for two decades, of other international awards throughout her career. Alicia Alonso Chair -- now the Rey Juan Carlos University said that having retired from the stage, "we both The time and place chosen to grant the award Dance Institute -- which pioneers the introduction of continue to dance inside.“ Cienfuegos Flag: A Constant Tribute to France from Cuba By Francisco G.NAVARRO

CIENFUEGOS.- At the neoclassical Clotilde del Carmen Rodríguez, "La Demajagua“¨, in Cuba’s east, façade of the Cienfuegos who designed and made the on October 10, 1868. province Municipal Palace, a province´s flag and gave it to her The Cienfuegos flag has three tribute is constantly paid to fellow countrymen who went off vertical bands – blue, white and France and its Revolution, which to the first war of independence, red, from left to right – in the this year celebrated its 228th on February 7, 1869, against the same order as the national flag anniversary. Spanish colonial oppression. of France, though it also includes It’s the local banner, whose Rodríguez, known in Cuba other semiotic elements. colors are identical to those of as ‘The Damují Daughter’ – in As a message of Christianity, the the French flag. reference to the main river of creator included a white cross on In addition to the architectonic the central-southern part of the first band’s blue background. values of the area that comprises the country – sent the banner The central band carries the old Plaza de Armas – the heart to her compatriot Federico the shield of the city, created in

of the historic centre, declared by FotosPl PHOTO: Fernández Cavada (1831-1871), 1831 by Agustín de Santa Cruz, UNESCO a World Heritage Site the leader of the Cienfuegos Cienfuegos´ first benefactor. in 2005 – the fluttering of the rebels who reached the rank of In the red band, Clotilde del Cienfuegos flag also stands out Mayor General and Head of the Carmen included a solitary star, in the environment; calling soon Liberation Army. as white as the two triangles the attention of foreign visitors. Lieutenant Colonel Germán present in the flag. The similarity between both Barrio Howard, Fernández Blood, purity and the sky are flags is justified by the fact that Cavada’s first cousin, had the the meanings intertwined in Cienfuegos, 240 km southeast honour to bear the flag, for the the local insignia of Cienfuegos, of Havana, has the historic first time in the free Cuban fields, meanings that are also present peculiarity of being the only place when the patriots of the country’s in the flag of the Cuban nation, where the core of the original The origin of both banners the ‘drapeau tricolore’ in 1794 central region joined the war of created in the city of Cárdenas population was founded by also has a war and patriotic to lead the freedom forces independence which landowner (to the east of Havana) by French colonists in the Spanish- similarity. during the French Revolution, Carlos Manuel de Céspedes Venezuelan General Narciso controlled Americas. Marquis Lafayette designed and so did Cienfuegos poet started in his small sugarcane mill López, on May 19, 1851. 8 ENTERTAINMENT& LISTINGS

MUSEUMS AND MUSEUMSGALLERIES

(THR is not responsible for any changes made by sponsoring organizations)

GETTINGThursday Kelvis Barreto, (23 entre 10 y 12 en el Vedado) AROUND [email protected] 7:00 pm Friday Summer special with Leo Vera in concert RECOMMENDS 5:00 to 7:00 pm /Mauricio • Jazz Concerts Figueiral, 10:00 pm at Gran Teatro Saturday “La Rueda de la de La Habana Fortuna” (Wheel of Fortune) Alicia Alonso with Martha Sánchez, 2:00 pm / Raúl Torres, 10:00 pm Sunday: Discotemba Barbaram THEATERS FAIR MUSIC MUSIC (Music from the 70´s, 80´s From 5:00 to 10:00 pm Arte en la Rampa Fair Del 6 de julio al 3 de Septiembre Anfiteatro de La Habana Café Cantante Mi Habana

Musical Cats Every Saturday and Sunday. 9:00 pm American artist Ben Jones at Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes Barbarám Pepito´s Bar (National Fine Arts Museum’s Universal Arts Building. Thru. Oct 23,

Exhibition by German painter Albert Oehlen, Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes (National Fine Arts Museum’s) Universal Arts Peña El Lobo y Los Corderos Building (Groundfloor). Singer-songwriter Frank Thru. Sep. 11 Martínez Every Thursday at 9:00 pm

Centro En Guayabera Alamar

Grupo Karamba Every Thursday. 5:00 pm

Casa de la Música de Miramar Quimbombó que resbala

With singer songwriter Ray Fernández Every Thursday at Tun Tun piano Ave. 26 y calle 47, Nuevo Vedado bar Tuesday Rosalia Arnaez and her (Calle 20 y 35, Playa) Diego Ulloa y su peña La pipa guests From 5.00 to 9.00 pm de la paz (The Pipe of Peace) 6:00 to 9:00 pm Fresa y Chocolate Every Friday ENTERTAINMENT& LISTINGS 9

GETTING GranAROUND Teatro de La Habana Cuba´s National Circus. Teatro Apolo Cine Yara CIRCUS Alicia Alonso TrompolocoTent Circo Fantástico Fantasías Circo Nacional de Cuba. Back to Havana Wed. Fri. Sat./Sun. 3:00 pm Fr. Sat. Sun. 7:00 p.m. 4:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. Cuba´s National Circus

Zoológico de 26 Paseo de Martí eaq. Boulevard Ave. 26, Nuevo Vedado San Rafael. Centro Habana. Tel: 7 Magic Gift 861-7391. Jazz Concerts Aug. 19 Sat. 8:30 p.m. and 26. Sun.5:00 p.m. 10 CULTURE Cuban Museum Dedicates Exhibition to African Influence on Culture DaimarelysPÉREZ

HAVANA.- The National Museum and curator of the exhibition Orlando of Fine Arts of Cuba is exhibiting Hernández, the artworks occupy three more than 100 works by 40 artists halls of the Cuban Art Building of the on African-origin culture and its museum. influence on this Caribbean country. As a complement to the exhibition, Opened on July 28 and to be on eight documentaries by the Cuban display until October 2, the exhibition, moviemaker, researcher, scriptwriter entitled “Without Masks, Afro-Cuban and producer Gloria Rolando will Contemporary Art“, focuses on two bescreened in the vestibules of the major thematic lines: cultural and temporary halls on the second and religious traditions of African origin in third floors, as well as 30 photos by Cuba and the main race-related conflicts. the U.S. photographer Roberto Salas. The creators of some of the The collection was created in 2007 artworks are Wifredo Lam, Belkis Ayón, and covers several artistic expressions Eduardo Roca, René Peña, Moisés like installations, paintings on canvas Finalé, Lázaro Saavedra, Alenxandre and wood, watercolors, glass and Arrechea and Juan Roberto Diago, enamel on aluminum paper, ink among other artists. drawings and engravings, among According to the art critic, essayist other techniques.

Conserving Cuba’s Caribbean Culture By NeisaMESA DEL TORO Internet PHOTO: and stilts, which add to the playful and arrived at the main square to launch the CIEGO DE AVILA, CUBA.– In 1917, The story goes that Arianna was intentionally ambiguous meaning of festivities. immigrants from Jamaica, Trinidad and a beautiful, happy native Jamaican the songs, creating an attractive and The celebrations in Baraguá - 460 Tobago, Barbados and other Caribbean girl, who in her free time and at family popular spectacle. km east of Havana – have become islands arrived in the province of Ciego de parties sold multi-colored ribbons to On August 1st, the group celebrated increasingly popular because a large Avila to work on sugarcane plantations. wind around wooden sticks, to happy the day when slavery was abolished in number of people participate. They settled in the Baraguá dancing buyers. the English colonies of the Caribbean, Throughout its history, the folklore municipality and established Jamaica The group’s repertoire today with festive drumbeats, bongos, congas, group that grew organically, has passed Town, where today Cuba’s highest includes a number of different pieces and Calypso rhythms. traditions from one generation to the number of English-speaking Caribbean about such colored ribbons and the The members of La Cinta that hosted next and every year teaches children immigrants and descendants is still agile dancers who masterly wind and the party beautifully showcased their and youngsters how to keep them alive. located. unwind them around a wooden stick, colorful and uniquely Caribbean brand In 2001, the group won the National In order to preserve their traditions, without missing a step. of folkloric song and dance. Community Culture Prize for its on September 20, 1965, the La Cinta Making the maneuver as quickly as The day opened with a importance to the Cuban identity. folklore group was founded, an possible is the secret to success. demonstration of the game of cricket – It is also a regular participant in important exponent of Caribbean Men and women dressed in an English bat and ball game inherited Santiago de Cuba’s renowned Festival music and dance in the country. brightly colored clothing and moving from their colonizers. of Fire. Made up of immigrant descendants, to a mix of rhythms, energetically and Afterwards, the now traditional Today, everybody from Jamaica the group took its name from a musical enthusiastically wind their ribbons. parade behind the Donkey – a small Town is committed to keeping their theme in their repertoire, based on a Choreographies are richly donkey that invites neighbors to dance traditional dance, music, religion and legend created by the original settlers. complemented by sackcloth costumes along the town‘s narrow streets – cuisine alive. PHOTO FEATURE 11 Cuban Beaches, Summer’s Magnet By Roberto F..CAMPOS Roberto F. Campos Roberto F. PHOTO: Emilio Herrera PHOTO:

HAVANA.- Summer comes in Cuba snorkeling and scuba diving, among and beaches still attract both others, in several nautical facilities. Emilio Herrera PHOTO: Cubans and foreigners who want to Therefore, the best is to start the have a great time on the Caribbean tour. Let us take an imaginary trip, island. which could become real, to that Although Cuban tourism environment of magic and crystal- authorities make efforts to diversify clear, well-preserved blue waters. recreational options, beaches are the Let us mention some examples, focus of vacationers nationwide. because among Cuba‘s most famous Coastal resorts have nearby beaches are those considered an access to other kinds of activities like extension of Havana. They are part trekking, excursions, circuits, even of a special strip of sand and sea congresses and meetings, as well about 20 minutes by car from any as options to improve the quality of hotel in the capital. life. These are great opportunities There are several beaches along that are always available in this that route, after crossing the Havana country. Tunnel, by a beautiful coastal

Cuba has perfect coherences in landscape bordering the peripheral Campos Roberto F. PHOTO: its more than 200 beaches, among neighborhoods of La Habana del which Varadero and those in eastern Este, Alamar and Cojímar. The sandy Cuba‘s most famous coastal resort, at least, There are three marinas in Varadero: Havana or on keys stand out. silhouette can be seen farther, in the that is what many foreigners who visit the Dársena Varadero, Chapelín and Gaviota. Of Cuba‘s 588 kilometers of beaches, background. island frequently think about it. The latter, located on the tip of the 256 are part of 12 major tourist regions, They are at least 18 kilometers It is Cuba‘s sun and beach destination peninsula, is the largest one, with piers with good hotels and nautical facilities of beaches with a very good hotel par excellence, with a hotel infrastructure and impressive accommodation facilities to reinforce the country‘s recreational and recreational infrastructure, that is appropriate and growing, in addition (Gaviota Marina Varadero). Therefore, it is development plans. above all to practice nautical sports. to areas where several nautical sports can usually the scenario for yachting, sailing In addition to being recreational The beaches are Tarará, Bacuranao, be practiced. and catamarans, in addition to diving. centers where tourists can take Mégano, Boca Ciega, Santa María Varadero is on the Hicacos Peninsula, Jardines del Rey, in central Cuba, the the sun, read under an umbrella del Mar, Guanabo and, a little bit where Punta de Morlas, Cuba‘s beaches in eastern Holguín province or or just take a nap, Cuban beaches farther, along the same coastline, northernmost tip, is located. those in Isla de la Juventud (Isle of Youth) have infrastructure that allows Arroyo Bermejo. Also known as the Blue Beach and some are part of a long list of coastal resorts vacationers practice several sports Meanwhile, Varadero, in western 140 kilometers east of Havana, Varadero whose popularity increases during the like sailing, motorbiking, kayaking, Matanzas province, is undoubtedly has excellent communication routes. summer season. 12 POLITICS Oscar López: Unbroken and The Unparalleled Unbowed By 36 Years In Prison Persecution of a WaldoMENDILUZA Former Brazilian of our homeland, our identity, our culture and everything that makes us Puerto Rican.“ He stressed that the case of Puerto Rico is a President ratification of the terrible realities of colonialism and leaves no doubt about the urgent need to By MoisésPÉREZ put an end to this crime against humanity. In relation to his personal situation, he stated that over 36 years of imprisonment in US jails had not diminished his fighting spirit and that he remains convinced that when you are on the side of a just and noble cause, nothing should be considered a sacrifice. “Despite all those years in jail, I returned home with my head held high and with my honor, dignity and spirit stronger than when I Courtesy of telesurtv PHOTO: was sentenced, ” he concluded. UNITED NATIONS.- Having spent almost 36 years in US jails – 12 in solitary confinement “A TRIVIAL REFERENDUM“ –, Oscar López Rivera‘s remarkable passion and Apimages PHOTO: strength remain intact and he believes that López Rivera described a referendum on the BRASILIA.- Brazil‘s Workers´ Party (PT) has said that the nation has Puerto Rican self-determination is now more Island‘s relationship with the United States held never before witnessed judicial, media and political persecution important than ever. on last June 11 as “trivial, lacking in credibility as overwhelming as that being faced by former President Luiz His Caribbean homeland, subjugated by and as a manipulative sham.“ Inácio Lula da Silva. colonialism for over five centuries, has lived for the “It has no legitimacy whatsoever because it The PT added in a statement following a Curitiba federal past 119 years under the yoke of US domination. was a maneuver and a manipulation on the part judge‘s order to confiscate the PT founder´s goods and valuables, Talking to The Havana Reporter from the UN of an annexationist party that doesn’t represent that having sentenced Lula without evidence and by spreading headquarters, the pro-independence advocate the Puerto Rican people,” he said. lies and contradicting his own decisions, Sergio Moro had decided said that “prison was very complex, but on In the referendum, promoted by governor to take even further revenge on an innocent. release I see that the situation facing the land of Ricardo Rosselló, of the New Progressive Party, By freezing Lula´s assets, Moro decreed a penalty of economic my birth is even more difficult now than at the and in which only 23 per cent of those on the asphyxiation that deprives the former president of his house and time of my detention.” electoral register participated, 97 per cent of the his means to survive and defend himself against false accusations, According to López Rivera, when he returned votes cast favored the annexationist stance. the statement reads. to his homeland – following the commutation “In that farce the governor obtained only two The PT robustly condemned this new mean-spirited and of his sentence by the then US president thirds of the votes he received in the November arbitrary measure by Moro, "acting in complicity with the Globo Barack Obama, in January 2017 – he found elections – just six months previously, showing that Network to commit any kind harmful action against the country´s more unemployment, social insecurity and the Puerto Rican people do not support the political most popular leader.“ privatization, phenomena that lead to mass maneuvering of this government,” he stressed. The former president´s defense lawyers have described the emigration and the exodus of professionals and federal judge´s verdict as illegal and abusive and recalled how, qualified staff. APPRECIATION even though it had been made on July 14, he kept it in secret until He said that as there are presently five the media made it public. million Puerto Ricans in the Diaspora and less Since his release, López Rivera has acknowledged They explained that in practice, this decision prevents Lula than 3.5 million on the island, an imbalance that the solidarity of people from all over the world from accessing all his goods and valuables, which affects the further stimulates depopulation, as happened who advocated for his freedom and supported existence of his family as well as his own. The new arbitrary in the cases of Hawaii and Alaska where native his cause. During the interview, he particularly decision is just one of many made by the same judge against the aboriginals were replaced. thanked Cuba. former president. In the opinion of the 74-year old patriot, in The patriot said “I want to express my According to defense lawyers, a measure of this nature can be spite of some harsh realities, there is a stronger appreciation to the Cuban people and to their justified only if there is evidence that the patrimony would be at reason to continue the struggle and the call for government.” risk of being diminished; therefore, they will appeal the decision. the unity of his compatriots and world solidarity He is pleased about the possibility of visiting Brazil‘s 247 digital newspaper reported that the Central Bank against US colonial control. Cuba on the invitation of President Raúl Castro froze 606,727 reales (about $190,000) in four separate bank “For the first time, the United States has openly in a May 18 message in which he congratulated accounts. demonstrated that we are a colony subject to a US Rivera after his freedom was made official. In addition, two automobiles, three apartments and a plot of Congress that has imposed a Fiscal Control Board “If everything goes on well, I hope to go in land, all in San Bernardo del Campo (Sao Paulo) where Lula lives, to offset 72 billion dollars in debt – a criminal November, to personally thank president Raúl have been confiscated. mechanism created to pick the last dollar out of Castro and express my gratitude to the Cuban On July 12, Moro sentenced the former Brazilian president to every Puerto Rican pocket,” he denounced. people for their support for the campaign for nine and half years in prison on alleged passive corruption and He added that now is the most opportune my freedom, but especially for their historic money laundering charges. time to call on the international community to solidarity with Puerto Rico.“ Lula´s defense lawyers have charged that he is the victim of a prioritize the case of Puerto Rico; in other words, He also highlighted the support lent to politically motivated trial that is an attack on both the rule of law to analyze it at the United Nations General Puerto Rico by the deceased revolutionary and Brazilian democracy. Assembly. leaders Fidel Castro and Hugo Chávez, and by Lawyers Cristiano Zanin Martins and Valeska Teixeira Zanin In 1953, the United States managed to other Latin American statespersons. Martins explained that Lula had been sentenced without any convince the Assembly to exclude the Caribbean On June 19, López Rivera attended a session credible evidence that he was guilty, while overwhelming proof island from its list of colonies by arguing that on Puerto Rico at the UN Special Committee for of his innocence had been blatantly ignored. Puerto Ricans had attained self-government. Decolonization, a 29 State member organization Lula, who was in office from January 2003 through January López, a San Sebastián native, added that created in 1961 that for the 36th occasion 2011, has been at the center of an obviously biased investigation the reality of his people is drifting progressively since 1972, approved a resolution in favor of of a political nature by Moro, whose decisions shame Brazil by further from that argument to the point that independence and self determination for the ignoring solid proof of the former president´s innocence and “we now face the very real threat of the loss small Caribbean island. constantly violate basic human rights and due process. ECONOMY 13 THE TOBACCO TRADE Cuba Hoping for Increased Cigar Sales in China By RobertoSALOMÓN Photos: José Meriño

In a synopsis of his recent visit, Chengxing said: “We have just signed the letter of intent between the Cuban and Chinese bodies, which expresses a shared desire to promote commercial, industrial and technical cooperation and to make the necessary efforts to ensure that agreed mutually beneficial actions are seen through.“ The executive described sectorial bilateral relations as close, saying that they had come to Cuba, satisfied and happy about the friendship between the governments and people of both countries and added that this HAVANA.- Both nations recently signed a agreement represented a significant letter of intent to strengthen commercial, boost for this particular branch of industrial and technical cooperation in trade. the sector. Having met with Justo Luis Fuentes, Cuba presently exports 200,000 He stressed the importance of Ling Chengxing, president of China’s president of the Cuban Tobacco Company cigars to China, although demand there ensuring that the agreed actions were State Tobacco Monopoly, has told The Group, its first vice-president, Miguel is significantly higher and estimated to realized for the benefit of both sides. Havana Reporter that even though Cuban Vladimir Rodríguez and other directors at be for between five and seven million Habanos S.A’s co-presidents also cigars are well known all over the world, the Cohiba El Laguito, Chengxing signed units, the reason why talks focused on hailed the strategic importance of the they are even more so in his own country. the letter of intent with Inocente Núñez the concession of an increased Chinese document signed, which will enhance The executive was on a visit to Blanco y Luis Sánchez, co-presidents sales quota for Cuba. cooperation in the longer term, with production facilities at the Cohiba El of the Cuban-Spanish joint venture Habanos S.A has had an office in both sides optimistic that it will lead Laguito cigar factory -- a former mansion in Habanos S.A. China for more than a decade and its to an increase in the number of cigars that part of Havana of the same name -- in The purpose of Chengxing’s visit was to Cohiba brand has a market presence in imported by China from next year. each of which he evaluated the work and establish the basis for further cooperation 11 of the Asian Giant’s provinces. Cuba presently sells premium hand the development of the product from de- between Cuba and China in this sector Market research results indicate that made cigars in more than 150 countries stemming to its preparation prior to rolling and it also served to identify the potential exports to China could account for 10% worldwide and has its own distribution and the finishing, ringing and boxing. for even greater collaboration. of Cuba’s global cigar sales. units in 70% of its major markets. 14 ECONOMY

with 16 percent. satisfied with the Cuban tourism product Foreign visitor statistics show that and 86 percent with the quality-price ratio. Cuban Tourism Up, Up and Away an 18-percent increase in the number of Moreover, 96 percent would recommend By Roberto F. CAMPOS arrivals from the United States had been the Caribbean island as a destination. recorded, even though its citizens can only The minister noted that 68 airlines fly and the remodeling, enlargement and visit Cuba under 12 categories approved to and from Cuba, offering connections construction of 23 nautical centers and by their government; none of which with 70 major cities around the world. marinas by 2030. permit tourism. He added that 25 cruise ships operate There are also 24 real estate, Marrero emphasized that in the in Cuba and that eight more will join soon, two of which are marina related, 47 first quarter of 2017, customer surveys accounting for 265 berths and more than adventure tourism sector and 17 indicated that 97 percent of visitors were 170,000 passenger arrivals. camp site related projects. Havana tops the investment list with projects such as the inauguration of the Packard Hotel planned in 2018 and the Biomas-Cuba Leads The Way Cuban tourism continues to grow Prado y Malecón Hotel in 2019. Others By SamuelROBERT steadily with 4.7 million arrivals forecast like the Hotel Aeropuerto and new for 2017. projects in Miramar and Mariel are also HAVANA.-Works funded both On July 25, industry authorities in the pipeline. domestically and by the Swiss announced that three million MINTUR is concentrating on the Cooperation and Development Agency holidaymakers had arrived, lending promotion of circuit, nature, cultural and (COSUDE) at Cuba‘s Hatuey Indian credence to the aforementioned historic tourism, improving service quality Experimental Station, an international prediction of 4.7 for million this year. and the development cruise holidays, project for the integrated production That number was achieved 75 days health tourism and nautical activities. of food and biodiesel from a non-food earlier than in 2016, a 24 percent A new portfolio of investment source, are well underway. increase on last year, during which Cuba opportunities, consisting of 140 A global challenge is being reported a record 4.2 million foreign identified projects, will be presented confronted to harmonize agro-energy tourists for the first time. at the FIHAV Havana International Fair and food production with care for the Since June, tourism officials have 2017, in November. Alonso said that 114 environment. highlighted the increased number of hotels presently operate under foreign Integrated farming practices can people from all over the world who want administration contracts and account for contribute to the search for a solution to vacation on the Caribbean island 66.8 percent of Cuba‘s total rooms. by becoming a source of both biofuel and that the tourism boom in Cuba is There is also growth in the area of and food. Biomass can be converted ongoing. Theme and Aquatic Parks, with options through the exploitation of a bio- The general director for like the Crystal Tower and the Cable Ski refinery into a range of useful value Development, Investments and Business on Cayo Coco now available. added products that can also promote at Cuba’s Ministry of Tourism (MINTUR), The MINTUR official revealed that local development José Daniel Alonso, explained that the other similar amusement parks in In an exclusive interview with The first semester was forecast to conclude Varadero and Havana are planned. Havana Reporter (THR), professor with a 22.2-percent increase; that is, 2.53 The former will be the Quixote Park Jesús Suarez Hernández, a researcher MeriñoTito José PHOTO: million foreign tourists, a number well and for people of all ages, an addition to at the Hatuey Indian Experimental for the integrated production of both surpassed. the country‘s tourist spectrum for both Station in the western Cuba province food and fuel, the enhancement of life That number ensured that the 4.2 the hotel and circuit client. of Matanzas, explained that these quality, production cost savings, clean arrivals planned for 2017 would be This information is based on present are objectives that Biomas-Cuba is energy and lower pollution levels. fulfilled. statistics, but many analysts expect an endeavoring to realize and that it has In addition to fuel production The official added that in May, the even greater increase in tourist numbers already attained critical technological for rural communities, the project country had 67,769 hotel rooms and that going forward. transfer and innovative development also incorporates the production of two new hotels had opened this year, results. converted biogas and bio-fertilizers including the Gran Manzana Kempinski MINTUR STATISTICS FROM FITCUBA Suarez, who directs the running from anaerobic porcine effluent bio- in Havana. 2017 of the project, said that the biodiesel digesters. He further added that by the end of the is produced from the non-edible The expert also told THR that year, Cuba will have 68,200 hotel rooms The FITCuba 2017, the 37th International Jatropha Curcas plant (locally known Biomas-Cuba may integrate the three and has plans to have 100,000 by 2030. Tourism Fair, was held in the eastern as Piñón de Botija) which also has a processes: biodiesel production, biogas Cuba has a strong program for the province of Holguín in early May. number of other significant uses. (for both fuel and soil enrichment development of the hotel and extra- At the opening ceremony, Tourism He said that the experimental fertilizer production) and biomass. hotel sectors, and for the first time, foreign Minister Manuel Marrero announced program included a 430 hectare For the latter, Marabu, the residue companies like Meliá and Iberostar can that two million foreign visitors had Jatropha Curcas and 21 associated from tree felling, timber and rice administer groups of hotels in smaller cities. arrived 39 days earlier than in 2016. food production plantations in six industries will be used to generate These will include hotels in the central As a result, Cuba‘s authorities municipalities in as many provinces, electricity and heat for use in the grain city of Cienfuegos and the eastern cities of reported a new record of visitors and an envisaging the construction of five drying process. Camagüey, Gibara and Santiago de Cuba. increase of 15 percent at that time. units to produce this biofuel, two of Suarez stressed that the results of The plan prioritizes nature and Marrero outlined that of the 67,000 which are already operational, each the project that is being implemented nautical circuit tourism facilities. hotel rooms then available on the island, with a daily capacity of up to 400 liters. to differing degrees in six provinces Alonso also pointed out that that 7,000 had been remodeled and 2,000 Biomas-Cuba is working closely aim to improve the quality of life the support for private accommodation redecorated last year. with the Pharmaceutical Laboratories through the ecologically sound and continues and that there are more than He added that in addition to the state- Company Group, which provides a integrated production of energy and 22,500 rooms available in the sector, owned hotels, there were 2,000 private qualified workforce, farm machinery food. only exceeded by the Gaviota Group, restaurants, known as “paladares“, and and other resources to the project. He concluded this exclusive the hotel chain in Cuba with most rooms more than 21,000 rooms in private homes. Suarez confirmed that the biodiesel interview by revealing that funds from (27,000) on offer. He reiterated that Canada continues can be used as a lubricant and has a group of countries and organizations, Tourism authorities have plans to be Cuba‘s primary source market, almost the same calorie value as diesel. the European Commission and the to further develop destinations like accounting for 34 percent of the total He stressed that it is obtained from UN Development Fund were being Viñales (west) and Trinidad (center), two number of arrivals and added that the non edible plant source to attain employed in projects underway particularly attractive locations for those during the first quarter of the year, the fuel self-sufficiency for farm’s tractors or on the way, in line with the wanting to spend their vacation in Cuba. United States and Canada had shared 45 and machinery. access to energy, food security and He referred also to new planned percent of total tourist arrivals. The professor added that the climate change related Sustainable investment projects that include 224 Other major markets are Europe with project is based on the conception Development Goals numbers 2, 7 and hotels, more than 32 expansion plans 33 percent of arrivals and Latin America, of the use of suitable technologies 13, respectively. SPORTS 15 Promising Young Cuban Athletes By Alejandro MARTÍNEZ

won all its medals, which bodes well for this sector‘s state of health, despite an obvious almost three decade long drought of promising sprint and middle distance athletes. The other Cuban’s to stand aloft on the podium were Silinda Morales (52.89 m) and Amanda Almendáriz (71.12m)

in discus and hammer throwing Courtesy of cubadebate PHOTO: respectively and Marisleysis gave the Island its first olympic discipline, and sprinter Silvio Duarthe (62.92) in the javelin. medal with a silver in the 100m Leonard stand out, as Ana The second silver was won by in Tokyo-1964, following the Fidelia Quirot, Iván Pedroso Courtesy of granma PHOTO: Yaritza Martínez (69.75), also in Triumph of the Revolution -- and the legendary high jumper HAVANA.- An unprecedented (13.29). In the long jump Maikel the hammer event. may be on the way once again. Javier Sotomayor, the unique performance at the Under-18 Vidal (7.88) and Lester Lescay Despite the absence of For decades, whenever Cuba double outdoor (2.45 m) and World Athletics Championships (7.79) took gold and silver, world power-houses such has participated in such events, indoor world record holder, in Nairobi, Kenya, has returned respectively. as the US and the UK due to track and field sports have been even more so do. Cuba to sports page headlines. Since they first commenced current tensions arising from a fundamental bulwark for the Although perhaps not quite The Caribbean nation back in 1999 and over the criminality and the threat of Island’s medal harvest and have so prolific, the decades of the finished third overall with an past 10 Under-18 World terrorism in the African host throughout contributed such 2000’s produced athletes of impressive tally of five golds, Championship events, Cuba’s nation, Cuba by far surpassed global emblematic figures such the caliber of triple jumper Yoel two silvers and a bronze, triple jumpers have collected its previous best performance as the aforementioned sprinter García, Osleidys Menéndez behind only South Africa (5-3- the most prolific tally of in Marrakech, Morocco, 2005, Figuerola, hurdler Alejandro (javelin), hurdlers Anier Garcia 3) and China 5-2-4). field sports medals with where it took a 3-2-2 total. Casañas and runner Alberto and Dayron Robles, as well Once again exponents of the grand total of six titles, This recent performance Juantorena. as Yipsi Moreno (hammer the triple jump shone brightly, complimented by two silver has reawakened the dreams Between the 1960’s and the throwing) and current world bringing home a gold for and five bronze medals. of the island’s sport’s fans that 1980’s javelin thrower María pole vault champion Yarisley Jordan Diaz (17.30m) and a Indeed, this time around, it the former days of glory -- such Caridad Colón, Latin America’s Silva, among other world and bronze for Zulia Hernández was in field events that Cuba as when Enrique Figuerola first Olympic champion in the Olympic champions. Cuba’s Latest Young Volleyball Stars By AlfredoBOADA

opposite, scored 16, three of team and especially so for which resulted from his serve. such a young one. The squad Captain Liván Osoria and had improved in the manner relief striker Javier Jiménez that they had adjusted to the contributed 10 points each to setback and had fulfilled their Cuba’s winning total. goal by winning a medal, he Ryan Sclater was Canada’s added. most valuable player and Canadian team trainer highest point scorer of the Larry McKay described the game with 25, followed by game against Cuba as a good Blake Scheerhoorn with 12. lesson for his players. He After the win, the young added that they had at times player and recent World Under risen to the level of the Cuban 21 silver medalist, Miguel Ángel squad, something he said was López, said “we wanted a good significant for that group. result, to be on the podium and The regional tournament HAVANA.- Once again fielding two hour long duration. regional tournament. we achieved that. This was an was won for a first time by a very young team, Cuba took A virtually inexperienced Having taken an historic unforgettable experience for Argentina who overcame the the bronze medal at the men’s Cuban sextet managed to third place in the 2017 World those of us playing in a Senior’s Puerto Ricans -- who eliminated 12th Pan American Volleyball overcome the psychological League, Canada gave some tournament for the first time.” the US in the quarter finals -- Cup, at the Robert Guertin setback of their defeat (3-1) by younger players an outing on He added that the team with a 3-1 (25-23, 25-18, 23-25, Arena in the southeastern Puerto Rico, having previously this occasion, while the Cuban could have done better, but 25-20). Canadian province of Quebec. beaten a powerful US squad in team included seven players were happy with the bronze The US team eventually Playing in front of the the Group A preliminaries, to from their Under-21 world and would now concentrate finished fifth with a 3-2 (15-25, enthusiastic local crowd that reach the semifinal stage with runner-up panel. on the World Under-23’s in 25-22, 20-25, 27-25, 15-13) win turned out for the event, the no loss. The leader of a Cuban squad Egypt and the Norceca Pre- over the Dominican Republic. Cubans overcame an equally This was the first time that featured players who will World event. With a win in what was young home team by three sets that Cuba and Canada -- who soon take part in the Under-23 Nicolás Vives, the Cuban also a 5 game (22-25, 25-16, to one (25-18, 25-21, 22-25 and respectively had won gold and World Championship, was team’s technical director, said 23-25, 25-17, 15-13) clash 25-23) in their last appearance bronze medals at the previous corner striker Miguel Ángel that his players has recovered with Mexico, who finished at the tournament, a closely edition of the Cup -- had faced López with 21 points, while well mentally from their defeat, eighth and last, Venezuela fought encounter of an almost each other in the Senior’s Miguel David Gutiérrez, his which was important for any took the 7th. 16