标签: Cuba

古巴

  • Chile cancels energy project threatening astronomy

    Chile cancels energy project threatening astronomy

    A major conflict has emerged in Chile between renewable energy ambitions and astronomical research, pitting a green hydrogen initiative against one of the world’s most important astronomical observatories. AES Andes, the Chilean subsidiary of American energy multinational AES Corporation, has faced mounting opposition to its proposed INNA project—a green hydrogen and ammonia production facility planned for the Atacama Desert.

    The project, which entered Chile’s Environmental Impact Assessment System in 2024, has encountered significant regulatory hurdles and widespread objections from both domestic and international stakeholders. The controversy stems from the proposed location just kilometers from the town of Taltal, placing it in immediate proximity to the Paranal Observatory.

    Paranal represents one of the most critical ground-based astronomical facilities globally, housing the renowned Very Large Telescope (VLT) operated by the European Southern Observatory (ESO). The site is also currently constructing the Extremely Large Telescope (ELT), projected to become the world’s largest optical/near-infrared telescope upon completion. Scientists anticipate the ELT will revolutionize our understanding of the universe by capturing unprecedented images that could reveal new insights into cosmic history and evolution.

    The Atacama Desert has earned global recognition among astronomers for its exceptional observational conditions, combining high altitude, minimal atmospheric interference, and exceptionally dark skies—attributes that make it uniquely suited for cutting-edge astronomical research.

    Environmental assessors and scientific organizations have raised concerns that the INNA project could severely degrade these pristine conditions through multiple mechanisms: light pollution from facility operations, atmospheric emissions that could affect air clarity, and potential vibration impacts from industrial activity. The conflict highlights the growing challenge of balancing renewable energy development with the preservation of scientifically critical environments.

  • Cuba commemorates International Education Day

    Cuba commemorates International Education Day

    In a powerful address disseminated through social media channels, Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez Parrilla has reaffirmed his nation’s steadfast dedication to advancing free, universal, and inclusive education as an indispensable human right. The diplomatic statement emerged amid growing international concerns regarding global educational disparities.

    Citing alarming UNESCO statistics, Rodríguez highlighted the profound crisis facing worldwide education systems, noting that 244 million children and adolescents currently lack any form of schooling. Further compounding this emergency, an additional 617 million young learners demonstrate insufficient proficiency in fundamental literacy and mathematics skills, creating what experts describe as a global learning poverty epidemic.

    The Cuban diplomat positioned educational access as more than simply an academic concern, framing it as a critical mechanism for fostering international peace, cross-cultural understanding, and social inclusion. Rodríguez emphasized that strengthening educational frameworks represents a foundational pillar for sustainable human development and the eradication of systemic discrimination.

    This declaration aligns with Cuba’s longstanding educational policy, which has historically prioritized comprehensive literacy programs and accessible education despite economic challenges. The Caribbean nation’s educational model has frequently been cited by international organizations for achieving remarkable literacy rates and educational participation levels.

    The timing of this statement coincides with increased global attention on educational inequality following pandemic-related school disruptions that disproportionately affected developing nations. United Nations agencies have warned that without significant intervention, current educational deficits may severely hamper progress toward international development goals.

  • Innovation leaders in the Cuban Press receive awards

    Innovation leaders in the Cuban Press receive awards

    Several Cuban media organizations have been recognized for journalistic excellence and innovative practices during a prestigious awards ceremony held at the Union of Cuban Journalists (UPEC) headquarters. The honorees included Ideas Multimedios, Radio Sancti Spiritus, the satirical publication Palante, and Radio Cumanayagua from Cienfuegos province.

    The awards specifically acknowledged groundbreaking efforts in developing and implementing innovative editorial solutions that address contemporary challenges in journalism. The competition bears the name of Juan Antonio Borrego, the late director of Escambray publishing house, honoring his legacy in Cuban media.

    Dr. Ana Teresa Badia, renowned journalist with Radio Rebelde and chair of the judging committee, reported exceptionally strong participation in this year’s competition. She noted that the majority of entries demonstrated significant commitment to developing practical solutions for the evolving challenges facing modern journalism.

    Special recognition was awarded to Radio Sancti Spiritus for its comprehensive coverage commemorating the centennial of Commander-in-Chief Fidel Castro’s birth, an honor bestowed by the Institute of Information and Social Communication. Ideas Multimedios received distinctive acclaim for its multimedia section titled ‘The Century of Fidel,’ which earned a special prize created specifically for this occasion.

    In a parallel achievement, the Faculty of Communication at the University of Havana presented Escambray publishing house in Sancti Spiritus with an award for its scientific approach to media management. This recognition aligned perfectly with the same category honored through the Juan Antonio Borrego Award, highlighting consistent excellence in journalistic management practices.

  • Lula confirms candidacy and highlights historic role of the MST

    Lula confirms candidacy and highlights historic role of the MST

    In a significant address, Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva framed the upcoming October elections as a critical juncture for the nation’s political trajectory. The Workers’ Party leader emphasized the electoral process as decisive in both shaping Brazil’s future direction and combating the pervasive spread of disinformation.

    President Lula presented a comprehensive review of his administration’s economic and social achievements, highlighting record-breaking employment levels as a cornerstone of his current term. “We have achieved the lowest unemployment rate in Brazil’s historical records alongside the highest number of active workers and economic engagements,” the president declared with emphasis.

    The address also spotlighted additional economic indicators showing substantial progress, including expanded export volumes, increased foreign and domestic investments, elevated minimum wage standards, and the revitalization of key strategic sectors within the national economy.

    Lula issued a compelling call to action for enhanced political involvement from social movements nationwide, particularly applauding the Landless Workers’ Movement (MST) for endorsing and fielding their own candidates in the upcoming elections. He articulated that such movements should take pride in their productive outputs and actively seek positions within decision-making bodies to safeguard and advance working-class rights and interests.

    Preceding the presidential speech, Paulo Teixeira, Minister of Agrarian Development and Family Farming, made a significant announcement regarding land reform initiatives. Minister Teixeira confirmed that promised land allocations would be formally delivered in April, a move expected to benefit thousands of families currently without land ownership across Brazil.

  • Cinderella according to The Beatles at Kolkata Film Festival

    Cinderella according to The Beatles at Kolkata Film Festival

    A vibrant Cuban theatrical production featuring musical adaptations of The Beatles’ greatest hits has made its international debut at the Kolkata International Children’s Film Festival. The performance, titled after the legendary band’s iconic anthology album ‘1,’ represents a unique cultural fusion that merges British musical heritage with distinct Cuban artistic expression.

    Directed by acclaimed Cuban theater director Carlos Alberto Cremata of La Colmenita company, the production creatively reimagines Charles Perrault’s classic fairy tales through the lens of The Beatles’ timeless music. Cremata explained to press members that the songs of the famous English group serve as ‘a key element of the entertaining plot,’ providing both narrative structure and emotional depth to the performance.

    The production distinguishes itself through its incorporation of authentically Cuban linguistic elements and traditional rhythms, creating a distinctive cultural hybrid that celebrates both British and Cuban artistic traditions. This innovative approach to children’s theater demonstrates how cross-cultural artistic collaborations can create fresh theatrical experiences that resonate with international audiences.

    The festival, which will continue through January 29, 2026, features an impressive lineup of 180 films from 32 countries, providing a global platform for children’s entertainment and educational content. The event was attended by diplomatic representatives including Cuban Ambassador Juan Marsan and First Secretary Maiky Diaz, who participated in the inauguration of a thematic exhibition alongside Indranil Sen, Minister of State for Information and Culture of West Bengal.

  • Former German Chancellor advocates for resuming ties with Russia

    Former German Chancellor advocates for resuming ties with Russia

    In a controversial stance that challenges current German policy, former Chancellor Gerhard Schroder has publicly endorsed the revival of energy cooperation with Russia. The ex-Social Democratic leader asserted that accessing affordable Russian energy supplies while implementing German extraction technologies would yield significant environmental benefits.

    Schroder characterized criticisms of such cooperation as fundamentally absurd, emphasizing instead the necessity of maintaining collaborative channels with Moscow. The former chancellor further challenged prevailing geopolitical narratives by rejecting the characterization of Russia as ‘an eternal enemy,’ instead highlighting the two nations’ deep historical connections and cultural ties.

    Energy geopolitics analysts within Germany note that despite the official government position distancing from Moscow, substantive debate continues regarding the future of German-Russian relations. This discourse reflects Germany’s historical energy dependence on Russian supplies and the complex economic calculations involved in severing these ties.

    Schroder’s intervention has reignited discussions concerning the substantial economic consequences of complete separation from Russian energy markets. Simultaneously, it has prompted renewed examination of potential pathways toward political normalization between European powers and Russia, suggesting that pragmatic economic considerations may eventually influence diplomatic re-engagement.

  • Turkiye follows talks on Ukrainian conflict in UAE

    Turkiye follows talks on Ukrainian conflict in UAE

    High-level diplomatic negotiations commenced in Abu Dhabi this Friday, marking a significant development in international efforts to address Black Sea security concerns. The talks feature a trilateral working group comprising representatives from Russia, the United States, and Ukraine.

    Turkish diplomatic sources, citing President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s guiding principle, emphasized the nation’s commitment to a peace process where “there should be no losing side.” This philosophy underpins Turkey’s active mediation role and reflects its strategic interest in fostering negotiated stability throughout the Black Sea region, according to regional political experts.

    The Ukrainian delegation demonstrated substantial commitment to the proceedings, with day one participation from National Security and Defense Council Secretary Rustem Umerov, Presidential Administration chief Kyrylo Budanov, legislator David Arakhamia, and Deputy Foreign Minister Sergiy Kyslytsya. The delegation further strengthened on Saturday with the addition of Chief of the General Staff Andrii Hnatov and Vadym Skibitsky, deputy head of Ukraine’s Main Intelligence Directorate.

    Russia’s representation includes high-ranking officials from its Defense Ministry alongside Admiral Igor Kostiukov, head of the Main Directorate of the General Staff of the Armed Forces. The United States contingent features White House Special Envoy Steve Witkoff, accompanied by prominent entrepreneur and presidential advisor Jared Kushner, and Federal Acquisition Service Commissioner Josh Gruenbaum.

    The formation of this multilateral dialogue framework represents a critical diplomatic initiative aimed at de-escalating regional tensions through structured negotiation channels.

  • Xi Jinping congrats Ugandan president on his re-election

    Xi Jinping congrats Ugandan president on his re-election

    In a significant diplomatic communication, Chinese President Xi Jinping has reinforced the strategic partnership between China and Uganda through a personal letter to Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni. The message highlights the deepening bilateral relationship that has evolved substantially since the two nations first established diplomatic relations in 1962.

    President Xi emphasized the historical foundation of Sino-Ugandan relations, noting that both countries have consistently demonstrated mutual support regarding matters of core national interests and critical concerns in recent years. This reciprocal backing has created a robust framework for cooperation that extends across multiple domains.

    The Chinese leader specifically acknowledged President Museveni’s longstanding commitment to strengthening ties between the nations, referring to him as an ‘old friend of the Chinese people’—a designation reflecting the Ugandan leader’s persistent efforts in fostering bilateral relations over many years.

    Practical cooperation between Beijing and Kampala has yielded substantial results across various sectors, including infrastructure development, trade, and investment. Additionally, the two countries have maintained effective coordination on international and regional matters, demonstrating aligned perspectives on global governance issues.

    President Xi expressed his commitment to working closely with President Museveni to further enhance political trust and perpetuate the historic friendship between their nations. This includes comprehensive implementation of agreements established during the Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), which serves as a crucial framework for Sino-African relations.

    The relationship between China and Uganda was elevated to a comprehensive strategic partnership in 2024, marking a significant milestone in their diplomatic engagement. This development occurs within the broader context of expanding South-South cooperation, representing a model of collaborative partnership between developing nations.

  • Nicaragua and South Africa boost bilateral cooperation

    Nicaragua and South Africa boost bilateral cooperation

    In a significant diplomatic development, high-level officials from Nicaragua and South Africa have convened to establish a comprehensive framework for enhanced bilateral cooperation. The meeting featured Presidential Advisor for Investment Promotion, Trade and International Cooperation Laureano Ortega alongside representatives from Nicaragua’s Ministry of Development, Industry and Trade (MIFIC).

    Ortega extended formal greetings on behalf of Nicaraguan leadership, conveying warm sentiments from Co-Presidents Daniel Ortega and Rosario Murillo to South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, Foreign Minister Ronald Lamola, and the South African people. The diplomatic exchange highlighted the shared characteristics between both nations, particularly their multicultural and multiethnic compositions, which present substantial opportunities for strengthened partnership.

    South African Deputy Minister Botes reciprocated the positive diplomatic overtures, emphasizing his nation’s profound respect for Nicaragua and expressing Pretoria’s keen interest in deepening relations not only bilaterally but throughout the Central American region. The dialogue resulted in the identification of six priority sectors for concentrated cooperation: agricultural development and agribusiness, mining operations, mineral processing and transformation, industrial advancement, service industries, and textile manufacturing.

    The newly established joint agenda represents a strategic alignment between the two governments, creating pathways for mutual economic growth and international collaboration across both bilateral and multilateral platforms. This diplomatic engagement signals a new chapter in South-South cooperation, with both nations seeking to leverage their complementary strengths for sustainable development.

  • Cuba prepares for Book Fair, Russia – guest of honor

    Cuba prepares for Book Fair, Russia – guest of honor

    The 2026 Havana International Book Fair will serve as a dual tribute, honoring both the centennial of Cuban revolutionary leader Fidel Castro and designating Russia as the event’s guest of honor nation. The announcement was made during an official press conference by Juan Rodriguez, President of Cuba’s National Book Institute (ICL), who characterized Russia as “a friendly and brotherly country” from political and cultural perspectives.

    The prestigious literary event, recognized as Cuba’s largest cultural festival, will simultaneously celebrate the legacy of two distinguished Cuban intellectuals: acclaimed author Marilyn Bobes, a two-time recipient of the prestigious Casa de las Americas Prize, and Dr. Jose Bell Lara, Professor Emeritus at the University of Havana holding a PhD in Philosophical Sciences and a Master’s in Caribbean Social Development.

    Rodriguez emphasized that the fair would commemorate Fidel Castro’s enduring influence on Cuban literature and publishing, stating the festival would “celebrate his example, his memory, and his legacy, which includes this very fair and all his contributions to Cuban literature and writers.”

    Russian Ambassador to Cuba Viktor Koronelli expressed profound honor at Russia’s selection, describing the invitation as recognition of Russia’s cultural significance and characterizing the Havana Book Fair as “one of the most important cultural events in all of Latin America.” The 2026 edition promises to strengthen cultural diplomacy between the two nations while highlighting Cuba’s literary achievements.