Santiago de Cuba, June 19 (RHC)--  The 16th International Fair ExpoCaribe began with an homage to Fidel Castro at the Santa Ifigenia Heritage Cemetery in the eastern city.

With the tribute, foreign and national delegations are recognizing the contributions of the Cuban Revolution’s historical leader to Caribbean and Latin American integration, of which Cuba is an example in the areas of health, education, the economy and society. The gathering will run through Saturday with the participation of more than 20 countries. The official opening is set to take place this evening at the Heredia Cultural Center’s Main Hall, followed by a stamp cancellation and professional visits to the different exhibition areas. 

The 12th Gran Caribe Business Forum will kick off at the Antonio Maceo Revolution Square’s Glass Windows Hall, sponsored by the Association of Caribbean States with the attendance of several regional ministers. The number of participants and business executives from Cuba and abroad have surpassed expectations at a trade fair and forum that stopped being held for the 11 years and is aimed at again promoting a space of exchange and promotion of Caribbean business with other regions of the world.

The six eastern Cuban provinces, from Camagüey to Guantanamo, are the event’s protagonists at ExpoCaribe 2019, scheduled to showcase the potentials of their exports and services, along with foreign investment opportunities in line with the priorities of the national economy. In the midst of the tightened US economic, commercial and financial blockade against Cuba through the implementations of the Helms-Burton Law and its Title III, the event will be a space of solidarity and resistance.