Havana, January 27 (RHC)-- Cuban President Raúl Castro said the container terminal at Mariel Port, and the powerful infrastructure accompanying it, are a concrete example of the optimism and confidence with which we Cubans see a socialist and prosperous future shows Cubans' optimism and confidence in a prosperous and socialist future.
 
Together with Brazilian president Dilma Rousseff, the Cuban leader cut the ribbon and officially inaugurated the first section covering 700 km.

The president stressed the importance of opening of the container terminal on National Hero José Martí's anniversary and in the context of the Second Summit of the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC).

The Cuban president thanked designers, builders, investors, national and international operators who concluded an arduous task to finish the terminal, which is now part of the Cuban and Latin America port system.

He also recalled the important funding on advantageous terms provided by Brazil during President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva's administration.

On behalf of all Cubans, he thanked President Rousseff for her country's solidarity and aid on such a significant project for Cuban and Latin America economy.

He also highlighted the Mariel container terminal will be operated by one of the largest por operators companies worldwide, expecting efficiency, security and quality services will be guaranteed.

He assured the Mariel Special Development Zone will become the main gateway for Cuba's foreign trade and a chance to drive the nation's economy in an effort to replace imports, ratchet up exports, create jobs and have access to cutting-edge technology.

Other regional leaders in Cuba for the CELAC summit also attended the inauguration.