On the picture His Excellency Ambassador Fermin Quiñones and his spouse Aimara together with the Cuban Embassy staff.
By Ellen Brager.
Greet.
It is Thursday evening at the Carlton Ambassador Hotel and the guests start to arrive under the watchful eye of Arwin Paulides, manager of the hotel that since long has become the home base of Diplomat Magazine.
In the line at the coat check, mostly Spanish, English and Dutch are spoken. His Excellency Ambassador Fermin Quiñones and his spouse Aimara welcome diplomats, government officials, business people and friends with Cuban warmth. A freshly prepared mojito, Cuba’s famous cocktail, dissipates the last of the winter cold from outside.
For Kim Vermaat photo album on Cuba Diplomats Meet and Greet, please click here https://www.flickr.com/photos/121611753@N07/albums/72157663637698606
The first Diplomats Meet & Greet of 2016, sponsored by Diplomatic Card and Jaguar, marked not only the New Year, but also the 57th anniversary of the Cuban Revolution.
In his welcome speech, Ambassador Quiñones praised the triumph of the revolution as a turning point in the history of the country and the region. At the same time he asked to remember the many Cubans who sacrificed their lives to achieve and uphold this victory.
Despite the persistence of an economic and commercial blockade which has been in force for the past 55 years, Cuba has achieved some remarkable successes. Last year the economy grew by 4% and prestigious companies around the world are showing increased interest in the Cuban market. The relations with the European Union continue to improve and especially the bilateral relations with the Netherlands have strengthened and grown, opening new opportunities for economic projects and cooperation in many other areas.
With free access to education from elementary to university level and health care for all, Cuba has become an example for the region. Moreover, tourism grew over 17% with the arrival of more than 3.5 million visitors to the country in 2015.
When looking at the glossy brochures on the tables, that last statement isn’t hard to imagine. Cuba is indeed a favorite tourist attraction as it has something to offer for everybody.
Beach lovers enjoy the tropical climate and the pristine beaches of white sand and turquoise water, a paradise for deep sea diving and other water sports. Art lovers are attracted by Cuba’s impressive cultural patrimony, especially in music and dance.
Cities like Havana, Santiago de Cuba and Trinidad can entertain visitors for days with their rich history, colonial architecture, festivals and museums, while their vibrant night life is an attraction in itself.
After the Ambassador’s speech the guests mingled, making their way to the richly filled table with hors d’oeuvres. Repeated happy New Year wishes filled the air along with the Cuban music played softly in the background.
Who doesn’t recognize those typical sounds, made famous worldwide by the Buena Vista Social Club? The lively chatter continues well into the evening, a sure sign of a successful event.
“We continue to change everything that needs to be changed. But we will never give up on our principles, our independence and our sovereignty.”, concluded Ambassador Quiñones.
These are reassuring words for those who worry about preserving Cuba’s identity now that the borders are more permeable and influences from abroad have become stronger.
Cuba is truly a unique country. Let’s hope it stays that way for centuries to come!
For information: http://www.cubadiplomatica.cu/holanda
