With the presence of some 500 professionals from around 60 countries and 80 representatives of the accredited national and foreign press, the 42nd edition of the FITCuba 2024 International Tourism Fair opened this Thursday at the Gran Marena hotel in Cayo Coco.
When speaking at the opening, Prime Minister, Manuel Marrero Cruz, highlighted the importance of the event that will foster a rich exchange between the participants, who will also be able to learn about the offers of the sun and beach destination, Jardines del Rey, one of the main tourist places in the country.
He also referred to the strategies that are carried out in favor of the development of tourism in Cuba, despite the difficulties, among which he mentioned the unjust boycott imposed by the United States on the island. He went on to say that tourism has not yet completely recovered, so hard work will continue in that regard and, at the same time, he thanked the efforts of all those who in one way or another are linked to this industry, defying the difficulties.
For his part, the Minister of Tourism, Juan Carlos García Granda, welcomed the participants and wished them much success during the work days of the fair. In this context, García Granda announced the implementation of a new electronic visa for tourists starting next May 6, which will help facilitate the trips of foreign vacationers to Cuba. An extensive program of product presentations, business meetings and exchanges will take place during the event that will conclude on the 4th.
In addition, several contests will be held, including the best breakfast buffet, "Cuban flavor" cuisine, recreation, Best Cuban show, cocktails in classic and flair style, and accommodation. During the opening, recognitions were given for their invaluable collaboration to the hotel groups Meliá Cuba, Iberostar hotels & Resorts and Blue Diamond.
Also presiding over the opening ceremony were Gustavo Santos, UN Tourism regional director for the Americas, the governor of Ciego de Ávila, Alfre Menéndez Pérez, numerous national and foreign personalities from the sector, including several ministers from Latin America and the Caribbean, as well as representatives of the diplomatic corps accredited in Cuba.
Mercy Ramos, CubaPLUS Magazine correspondents
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