Havana, July 19 (RHC)-- Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez stated this Sunday that the government of his country is committed to the rights of children, their welfare and full development.

On the occasion of the island's celebration of Children's Day, the foreign minister wrote on his Twitter account: "Children are the hope of the world and our greatest treasure."

He added that the Caribbean nation's government is working to ensure their rights and that they grow up with the "possibility of freely and creatively developing their personalities, skills and abilities, as well as a full and happy life."

The protection of children in Cuba is a major task, as evidenced by the priority given to programs for young people.  An example of this is that despite the effects of the economic, commercial and financial blockade imposed by the United States, no resources are spared to support health and education services, with emphasis on those related to children.

Cuba is ranked 35th among the nations with the lowest infant mortality rate in the world, at five per one thousand live births.

The National Immunization Program also guarantees immunization coverage of almost one hundred percent, including vaccines against 13 diseases, six of which remain eradicated.

In the area of education, last June UNESCO recognized the leadership of the Caribbean nation, for the quality of teaching, inclusion and in particular for integrating 99.5 percent of children under six years of age into the educational system.

Cuba celebrates Children's Day on the third Sunday of July, a date on which many activities are usually held, which on this occasion will be limited due to the health measures taken by COVID-19.