Spanish businesspeople meet with Cuban tourism authorities

A busy evening with Spanish entrepreneurs marked the beginning of Cuba's presence at the International Tourism Fair (Fitur) on Monday.
 
Meeting at the Cuban Embassy in this capital, the group of business personalities was interested in the current state of the smokless industry in the Caribbean island.

Cuban Minister of Tourism Juan Carlos García noted that once again, this meeting is a starting point in the run-up to Fitur 2025, to be held at the IFEMA-Madrid fairgrounds, from January 22 to 26.

In the presence of representatives of hotel chains, tour operators and groups dedicated to tourism in Cuba, García acknowledged that last year was very hard for Cuba due to the persistent impact of the United States economic blockade.

In response to a question from Prensa Latina, the minister praised Cuba’s removal from the list of countries that allegedly collaborate with terrorism and other measures that could help the sector develop better.

“A list on which we should have never been, but five years have passed with numerous effects. We hope that with the change of administration in the United States, this spirit will be maintained and we can continue to develop,” he said.

However, García stressed that the plans and projects for tourism in Cuba are not based on what the restrictions of the blockade may or may not mean, and expressed optimism about making progress in 2025.

Cubasol group made a detailed presentation of 11 projects in Cuba to increase and diversify recreational offers for visitors, with great attractions for foreign investment.

Cuban Ambassador to Spain Marcelino Medina and Cuban Tourism Advisor for Spain and Portugal Niurka Pérez also attended the meeting.

Fitur, which this year has Brazil as the Guest of Honor, will have a broad participation from Latin America and the Caribbean, as 9,500 companies, more than 800 exhibitors and delegations from 156 nations will take part in the event.