Havana, September 12 (RHC)-- On Thursday evening's Mesa Rodonda -- Cuba's prime time TV program -- Alejandro Gil Fernández, Minister of Economy and Planning, spoke about the measures being taken to guarantee basic services.

Accompanying Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel and other ministers of the government on the program, Gil Fernández said that the nation is not paralyzed, but is working to find solutions to the diesel deficit that is being experienced.
 
He said that managing fuel distribution is the current priority, for which measures have been designed for two fundamental stages -- the first through this Saturday, September 14th, the day when a ship with oil cargo will arrive at the port of Havana, and the second until the end of the month of September.

The Cuban minister of economy and planning said that the diesel fuel available will focus on food production, distribution to the retail network and guaranteeing basic services in hospitals, children's daycare centers and schools.
 
Regarding tourism, Gil Fernández said that those who visit Cuba will not be affected and that tourist activities will continue as planned.  He emphasized that Cuba is ready to receive visitors and they should not feel the effects of an economic crisis.

The Cuban minister explained that the conditions on the island make it possible that a new Special Period will not be repeated.  Foreign trade is stronger than it was 20 years ago, he said.  But he added that there will be difficulties and shortages and can be overcome with the unity of the Cuban people.

Gil Fernandez said that tomorrow, Friday, the phone numbers, e-mails and website addresses for complaints and ideas will be published.