By María Josefina Arce

Until next December, Cuba will occupy the pro tempore presidency of the Committee of Representatives of the ALADI, Latin American Integration Association, a high responsibility that has been described as an honor and a commitment to the work of the organization in favor of developing links of solidarity and cooperation with the nations of the area.

Since its incorporation in 1999, Cuba has had a notable and active participation in the bloc, which is made up of 13 countries and represents more than 510 million citizens.

Last year, for example, the Expo ALADI Macro Business Roundtable took place in Havana in October, an event that brought together nearly 500 businesspeople from the region.

More than 2,500 business appointments were made during the event, one more step in the organization's objective of promoting regional economic complementarity.

That was the first time that the business round was held in a Caribbean state, and it was also the first in person, after three virtual editions due to the COVID 19 pandemic.

Fluid and respectful is Cuba's relationship with the organization, which has condemned the inhumane US blockade against the Cuban people and whose general secretary, the Uruguayan Sergio Abreu, visited the archipelago in April of last year.

The Caribbean nation has previously held the pro tempore presidency of the ALADI Committee of Representatives and its new appointment is recognition of the work carried out.

The Cuban authorities affirmed that upon assuming this task again they will work to support, coordinate and execute the necessary actions for the work of the Latin American Integration Association and increase unity between our countries.

Since its incorporation, ALADI members have highlighted, the Caribbean country has maintained a concerned, responsible attitude and a constructive spirit, which has contributed a lot to the bloc.

Cuba has shown signs of its seriousness and commitment by taking on different responsibilities in various regional and international organizations. His leadership and ability to reach consensus, his defense of peace and multilateralism have been highly recognized.