With this decision we are approving a framework for all actors involved in our economic panorama, which goes beyond simple recognition of them, stated the First Secretary of the Communist Party of Cuba and President of the Republic, Miguel Díaz-Canel Bermúdez.

Noting as an essential principle guiding the process of improvement, upon introducing the subject, Political Bureau member and Prime Minister Manuel Marrero Cruz reiterated that the state enterprise is defined as the principal actor in the national economy and, as such, must perform.
Among other principles, he recalled that the expansion of activities conducted by non-state forms of management will not lead to a broader process of privatization, since limits that cannot be exceeded have been established. “Recognizing, diversifying and strengthening the work of economic actors” is another objective of the needed improvement effort, with a view toward all economic actors functioning as defined.

Referring in particular to micro, small and medium-sized enterprises, he explained that they will be part of the state and private sectors, and similar management conditions will be established for both. In the case of private companies, he explained that the list of activities which self-employed workers are not permitted to conduct will serve as a starting point to establish the arenas in which companies will operate. Initially, they will not be allowed to engage in some professional activities, including those that are approved for the self-employed, including computer programming, bookkeeping, translation and interpretation, veterinary care for pets and domestic animals, design and certain types of advisement.
The Prime Minister insisted on the importance of achieving sustained progress in the task, which must advance purposefully and gradually to avoid mistakes. “We need to move forward intelligently, to consolidate each step we take and be able to achieve sustainability.”

As part of this discussion, presented were the principal findings from the experiment conducted with non-agricultural cooperatives, initiated in March of 2012. Between 2012 and 2014, 498 cooperatives of this type were authorized.

The Prime Minister explained that the information gathered during reviews during the experimental stage indicated that, in spite of deficiencies, the viability of the approved policy was confirmed. Considering this reality, the decision was made to conclude the experiment and gradually extend the creation of non-agricultural cooperatives to all previously approved sectors, with the exception of construction.
Marrero noted that as part of the measures designed, regulations meant to improve the work of all the economic actors will be issued at the same time.

Based on this decision by the Council of Ministers, work will begin on the respective legal norms for their implementation. As progress is made in this task, the population will be provided updated information.
President Díaz-Canel emphasized that the document approved will advance improvement, as a broad and comprehensive process that provides continuity and follow-up for the Policy Guidelines approved by the 6th and 7th Congresses of the Communist Party of Cuba and reaffirmed at the 8th Congress of the Communist Party of Cuba.

The steps outlined, he said, establish a framework for the country’s economic actors, which, above all, reaffirm the centrality of the state enterprise system. Based on what is approved, we will be in a better position,” he said, “to advance in certain aspects such as relieving the state of activities that are not fundamental to the economy’s performance, and make better use of the workforce, especially the highly qualified.
“We need the state sector to be more proactive, to be more efficient, to shake off some of the inertia, to be more innovative,” he emphasized. He also commented on the importance of consolidating an adequate relationship between the state sector and the non-state sector, which would allow for greater efficiency and innovation.

This improved relationship should allow forgetter use of human potential, productive capacity, experience gained and innovation.
If the process is conducted well, he said, we can successfully integrate the two sectors, strengthen the economy and speed up the country’s development. The process will be gradual, but this does not mean we will delay implementation.

It is vital that these measures reach the municipal level, to ensure that different forms of management are involved in territorial development strategies and contribute to the economic growth of localities, where projects can generate employment, increase production and provide services.
Let us definitively eliminate the obstacles that prevent our economic actors from performing with agility, with the ability to contribute to development, he emphasized.

“Here, anything that is inefficient, corrupt or illegal; anything that tends to hinder, that is not innovative or proactive, is harmful, whether it is in the state or non-state sector.”

The economy of the future and the present
Foreseeing, designing and planning were fundamental to the process of elaborating the country’s Economic Plan and State Budget for the year 2022, conditioned to a significant extent by the control being achieved of the COVID-19pandemic.

Designed within the context of monetary re-ordering, the Plan of the Economy for next year is based, in the first place, on the concept of centralized planning, stated First Deputy Minister of Economy and Planning Leticia Morales González. This implies consciously leading the process of economic and social development in the country, favoring the incorporation of all forms of property and management.

The design fundamentally projects counteracting the effects of economic deceleration; continuing to promote greater interaction between all economic actors; increasing efficiency, efficacy, productivity and innovation; as well as adhering to and continuing to work on the National Development Plan through 2030, she said

While acknowledging the complexity of making projections in such a difficult time, Morales insisted on the urgency of seeking solutions to our problems on our own. “We must work hard, we must find solutions, we must identify potential… and we must be able to reflect all of this in the Plan,” she emphasized.

The challenge is to reflect the scenario we foresee within the 2022 Plan, with both objectivity and optimism. The goal cannot be to consider what we have done, and plan to do a little more; no, the goal is to identify what we have not yet done and the capacity we have to do more, she stated.

Also on the agenda for the highest government body’s meeting was a report by the First Deputy Minister of Economy and Planning on the economy’s performance as of the end of April, a period that demonstrated the need to continue seeking untapped potential and produce more.

Production of rice, eggs and corn, she stated, surpassed projections, not the case for starchy vegetables, beans, fresh milk for the industry and pork.

She added that projected indicators of production and efficiency were not met in the sugar industry this season, evident in the backlog accumulated in cane milling.

Regarding employment, she noted that a total of 166,966 persons visited municipal labor offices in search of a job. Of the positions accepted, 55,442 were in the state sector and 50,183 in the non-state sector.

Another issue evaluated by Council of Ministers members was the progress made in implementation of the National Economic and Social Development Plan through 2030, a guiding document for the National Planning System, which directs development efforts with a view toward eliminating structural imbalances in the economy with a strategic vision and closely articulated with the Sustainable Development Goals of the United Nations 2030 Agenda.

Serving the vulnerable, wherever needed
Later in the meeting, Minister of Labor and Social Security Marta Elena Feitó Cabrera presented policy proposals to strengthen prevention and social work in neighborhoods, and for support to individuals, families and households, as well as groups and communities in situations of social vulnerability.

As an essential aspect, the Minister commented on support offered to the necessary transformation of preventative social work at the community level, as the most important link. This policy involves recovering the founding principles of social work based on Comandante en jefe Fidel Castro’s conception of preventing, assisting and transforming, thus addressing the full scope of needed action, currently organized at the national, provincial and municipal levels.
She explained that, on the basis of experience gained, the Ministry has identified the need to transform work currently conducted by social workers and recover the original conception of social prevention, particularly in attention to adolescents and focused follow-up on community efforts.
Referring to the second document, she explained that its objective is to raise the quality of social services to address situations of social vulnerability, improve, diversify and broaden protection provided by Social Assistance and its services, including the participation of diverse actors.

Regarding both policies, which were approved by the Council of Ministers, Deputy Prime Minister Inés María Chapman Waug, emphasized that they constitute fundamental tools that should facilitate local analyses and the adoption of necessary measures to guide programs implemented in each territory.

This community work, today more than ever, is essential, she stated. Hence her insistence on including, among actions taken, the projection of social research and coherent work in neighborhoods.

The effects of drought in Cuba
As part of the day’s agenda, the president of the National Institute of Water Resources, Antonio Rodríguez, presented an update on the current nationwide drought, reporting that, between December 2020 and April 2021, rainfall on the island has reached only 54% of the average for this period.

The lowest provincial accumulations over the last four months were recorded in Havana, Ciego de Avila and Sancti Spiritus, all with precipitation below 30% of the historic average. Additionally, Mayabeque, Cienfuegos, Santiago de Cuba, Camagüey, Matanzas and Villa Clara recorded between 30% and 50%.

These low precipitation levels, he noted, have produced an increase in the number of areas impacted by the drought. At the end of November 2020, 13% of the country’s municipalities were suffering the effects of limited rainfall, and by the end of March 2021 the figure reached 45%.

Nationwide, 552,852 persons are affected by the drought. The populations of Havana, Artemisa, Santiago de Cuba, Camagüey and Guantánamo account for 81% of the total.

In order to alleviate the impact on the population, action being taken to maintain and improve pipelines and networks, construct interconnections between systems, increase the number of pumping stations, and drill wells, among other efforts, which have improved service to more than 780,260 inhabitants, principally in the provinces of Havana, Santiago de Cuba, Las Tunas and Guantánamo, Camagüey and Artemisa.

He recalled that, during the 2003-2005 period, a severe drought affected some
Two million people in the country, a figure that was reduced between 2020 and 2021 to about 500,000, as a result of investments made in the water sector nationwide.
Government work in Sancti Spíritus

As the last item on the agenda and in compliance with provisions established in the Constitution of the Republic of Cuba, the governor of Sancti Spiritus, Teresita Romero Rodríguez, presented an accountability report on her administration’s work in the province, the first to conduct this process before the Council of Ministers.

Many actions have been taken, she stated, to improve the populations’ quality of life in the midst of the complex situation the nation is facing, as a result of the escalation of the unjust economic, commercial and financial blockade imposed by the U.S. government on Cuba; damage caused by three severe meteorological events in the province; and the great effort required to confront the COVID-19 epidemic.

Among principal priorities during 2020 and 2021, the Governor identified work to support the food program in the territory. Other programs such as health and education have also been prioritized, while progress was made in the computerization of society and in meeting objectives established in provincial housing policy.

In order to continue advancing in the government’s effectiveness, Governor Romero cited several arenas which require more work. Among these, she emphasized follow-up on the implementation of monetary re-ordering; the identification of untapped potential to generate income for the local budget, as well as the control of expenses and their destinations; improving the quality of services provided the population; and promoting local development projects, in accordance with strategic lines approved in each municipality.

Several members of the Council of Ministers offered their opinions and suggestions for the government’s future efforts in this central territory, which faces a period of much work, learning, and overcoming challenges, in order to increasingly improve the population’s quality of life, and the body approved the Governor’s accountability report and the Resolution proposed in this regard.

(Taken from Granma)

“We cannot allow any room for division, manipulation, interference, or provocations,” he added.In assessing the country’s situation, he referred to the tightening of the U.S. blockade, with the current administration repeatedly imposing new sanctions that have caused, to give just one example, a shortage of fuel.He also commented on the reality that Latin America is experiencing, at a time when many people are taking to the streets; left processes are having success; and the most aggressive right returns, as is the case in Bolivia. In this context, he noted, interference and aggression against Cuba, Venezuela and Nicaragua is increasing.

“It has become fashionable to offer formulas, ignoring the complexity of life for the Cuban people, in conditions of brutal blockade, and that we long ago chose our path, guided by well-defined principles of independence,” said Diaz-Canel.

The President, with members of the Council of Ministers, recalled concepts related to political and ideological work, which is not only the responsibility of the Communist Party, but of all cadres in the country’s entities and organizations.

Political-ideological preparation makes a difference in the daily actions of those who lead, he insisted.Díaz-Canel reviewed the Cuban government’s prioritized tasks, including the extensive legislative work implied by the new Constitution; local food self-sufficiency; assuring a successful cold season planting campaign and sugar harvest; support to improve the quality of tourism; relations with universities; housing policy; confronting fuel theft; and the country’s investment plan.

The list of priorities also included exports, productive chains, foreign investment, computerization, the epidemiological situation, improvement of the urban environment, the battle for decency, and against social indiscipline.

AN OBJECTIVE, REALISTIC PLAN

Minister of Economy and Planning Alejandro Gil Fernández presented a proposed Economic Plan for 2020, which he described as objective and adjusted to our current reality, one that does not renounce growth or taking advantage of untapped potential, to be approved by the Council of Ministers and presented to the National Assembly of People’s Power. Prior to this discussion, the Plan was also analyzed by the Communist Party of Cuba Political Bureau.As he explained, the Plan was developed without specific directives, with the intention of not limiting discussion with workers to figures established “above.

” The drafting process was carried out jointly with the Federation of Cuban Workers (CTC), which allowed for more active, less formal participation in the discussion of this guiding document.Gil Fernández stated that the 2020 Plan supports prioritized programs such as tourism development; housing construction; all foreign investment operations; and the continuity of investment projects that contribute to expanding exports or increasing added value, to the use of renewable energy, and food production, among other decisive economic activities.

As part of this point on the agenda, Minister of Finance and Prices Meisi Bolaños Weiss reported on the estimated performance of this year’s State Budget, which included, as its main challenge, support for increases in salary within the budgeted sector and Social Security pensions, an expense of approximately four billion pesos, which was assumed without affecting the budget deficit.

Regarding the preliminary draft of the 2020 State Budget, she noted that revenues are up, along with sales taxes on goods and services; while a slight recovery in retail circulation is projected. Also expected is an increase in contributions from non-state economic actors.

Expenses will also increase next year, due primarily to higher wages and pensions. Basic services for the population are fully financed, prioritizing education and public health at levels similar to 2019.

At the same time, the policy of granting subsidies for the purchase of construction materials is maintained.Díaz-Canel called for efficiency in all processes; maintenance of conservation measures taken to mitigate the fuel shortage; reducing imports of fertilizers and biological pesticides, producing them in Cuba; increasing all exports, not only traditional lines; and not citing the lack of resources to justify not meeting projections, but to rather seek alternative solutions.

PROGRAM TO FIGHT RACISM AND DISCRIMINATION

Also announced at the Council of Ministers meeting was a national program against racism and discrimination, conceived “to combat and permanently eliminate the vestiges of racism, racial prejudice, and racial discrimination that remain in Cuba.

”The effort was explained by Deputy Minister of Culture Fernando Rojas Gutiérrez, who pointed out, “As of January 1, 1959, the dismantling of the conditions that generated racial discrimination in the colonial and neo-colonial eras began, and although progress has been huge, solid, and unquestionable, it has been difficult to reverse four centuries of inequality in just 60 years.

Silencing the problem, magnifying it, or addressing it on the basis of exogenous concepts, is no solution,” he added.He highlighted the anti-racist thinking of the historic leader of the Cuban Revolution, Fidel Castro Ruz, and Army General Raúl Castro Ruz, as well as the active role in addressing racial issues of the Cuban Writers and Artists Union and its José Antonio Aponte commission.

The newly-created program will additionally address regionalism and discrimination based on ethnic or national origin, also associated with racism.It is designed, Rojas Gutiérrez explained, as a government program with follow-up included within President Díaz-Canel’s work agenda.

“To coordinate tasks, a government commission will be created, headed by the President of the Republic,” he said.On this issue, the President said, “Everyone recognizes that our Revolution is possibly the social and political process that has contributed most to eliminating racial discrimination, but there are still vestiges, which are not part of our society, as a policy, but within the culture of a group of people.”We are within our rights and have the opportunity to do something coherent, of impact, that helps us solve these problems in our society, and demonstrate, once again, the justice and humanism of the Revolution, he stated.

MORE ISSUES ON A LONG AGENDA

As customary in these meetings, a broad, varied work agenda was presented, covering other important issues related to the economic and social life of the nation.Among these were 2020 directives and control objectives for the national comptroller’s audit system, addressed by Comptroller General Gladys Bejerano Portela, who explained that priorities are established in accordance with development plans, statistical indicators, national objectives and commitments, basically related to the Economic Plan and the State Budget.

“The central goal of this work is to make every audit an opportunity to teach, train, and prevent.” We must create a climate of order, discipline, and rigor, Bejerano said.

Regarding the inscription in property registers of real estate belonging to state and local entities and People’s Power bodies, Minister of Justice Oscar Silvera Martínez reported that this effort has been well organized, and that respect for the role of the property registry is being consolidated.In 2010, this task, promoted by Army General Raúl Castro Ruz, began to gain momentum, and 315,223 state properties were registered through 2018.

Next, Minister of Foreign Trade and Investment Rodrigo Malmierca Díaz addressed progress on business with foreign capital and projects that have the potential to be concretized in the remainder of the year and the first half of 2020.

Among the most advanced, he said, 52 have been identified, representing an estimated total investment of six billion dollars, in tourism, the sugar industry, construction, agriculture, food production, industry, energy, and transportation.He reiterated the need to work with a “sense of urgency” in the realization of these projects, making every effort to have an impact on next year’s Economic Plan.For his part, Minister of Higher Education José Ramón Saborido Loidi presented an analysis of projected demand for highly qualified, university trained professionals, noting, “By 2020 the number of graduates in all scientific areas will be higher than in 2019… But this does not mean that needs will be met, since the demand from entities has also increased significantly.

” He recalled that the country’s demographic trends are causing a gradual decrease in pre-university high school enrollment, and therefore, in the number of students taking high education admission exams.In this regard, the President of the Republic advocated for better management of human resources and the skilled workforce.

He advocated using other instructional modalities available, including workshops and short courses.Finally, the Comptroller General reported findings from the comprehensive state audit of the Mayabeque provincial administration, which revealed inadequacies in execution of the state budget; overdue accounts receivable; two alleged criminal acts, one associated with poor supervision of management and accounting in the maintenance and repair of equipment, and another linked to improper payments to a self-employed worker; as well as limited progress on local development projects, among other sensitive deficiencies.

Given these problems, the chief administrator in the province was replaced.Concluding the meeting, President Díaz-Canel informed Council of Ministers members of accomplishments achieved during his recent tour, October 20-30, of Ireland, Belarus, Azerbaijan and Russia.

Additionally, the President reiterated his call to “Think as a nation;” recognized central state administrative bodies for their contribution to Havana’s 500th birthday celebrations; and called for closing the year with dignity, to honor the 61st anniversary of the Cuban Revolution, saying “We have every reason to celebrate, given the difficulties we have faced victoriously.”

(With information from www.presidencia.gob.cu)

The Council of Ministers, led by its President, Miguel Díaz-Canel Bermúdez, has approved a group of measures to launch an economic strategy based on taking maximum advantage of domestic capacity and human potential within the country.

The President explained that – based on government visits to the provinces, the population’s opinions, proposals in congresses like that of the Federation of Cuban Workers, and addressing the problems facing the economy aggravated by the hostile policy of the U.S. government – for several months a work group including academic specialists in economic sciences systematically discussed the decisions that are now approved by the highest body of the country’s government.

Minister of Economy and Planning Alejandro Gil Fernández stated that, in general, the measures “are focused on providing a greater response to the needs of the population and the economy, encouraging the active participation of all actors in the search for solutions and ways to confront the economic siege imposed on us by the United States government.”

The goal is that what has been designed will not only stimulate savings, and promote development, but also allow progress to continue on fundamental questions to generate more favorable conditions for the Cuban economy’s performance.
He commented that the measures essentially seek to defend national production; diversify and increase exports; substitute imports with domestic products; strengthen the state enterprise; advance in food sovereignty; promote local development; implement the Housing Policy; and put science at the service of resolving problems.

All this, he emphasized, requires the use of methods and work styles far removed from formalism and bureaucracy, using a comprehensive approach, to contribute to making decisions adopted by the government more effective.

Gil Fernández explained that the measures, which will be put into practice gradually, address dissimilar issues, including an increase in national production; municipal self-sufficiency; local development projects; investments; retail sales; and the promotion of agricultural production.

He noted as fundamental the role of cadres at all levels and their training. He likewise described as imperative, “concretizing changes related to the country’s institutionality, since changes have been made in the economic model, yet we continue working with basically the same institutional structures.”

INCREASES IN SALARIES FOR THE BUDGETED SECTOR AND PENSIONS

“This is not the final salary increase we are heading toward, but it is significant enough given the conditions in which we find ourselves,” the President of the Councils of State and Ministers emphasized, referring to the salary increase for the budgeted sector.

Photo: Estudios Revolución
The goal is, he said, that this decision will begin to be implemented in the month of July, so that, before the end of the summer, workers will receive the first benefits.

In this regard, the Minister of Economy and Planning explained that the minimum salary in the budgeted sector will increase to 400 pesos and the average monthly salary will rise to 1,067, saying, “This measure includes 1,470,736 workers in Central State Administration agencies, local People’s Power bodies, organizations and associations, and has an estimated annual cost of 7,050,000 pesos.”

In the case of Social Security, taking into account increases made to the minimum pension in November of 2018, this remains at 242 pesos. Other persons who at that time did not receive an increase, and have pensions below 500 pesos, will benefit from the approval of these new measures, which will favor 1,281,523 persons, at an estimated annual cost of 700 million pesos.

Meanwhile, Social Assistance will not change, given the increase provided in November of 2018, when the minimum amount was established as 217 pesos.

Minister of Finances and Prices Meisi Bolaños Weiss additionally explained that the application of the Special Contribution to Social Security will be extended to workers in the budgeted sector, in line with the principle that all contribute to the financing of expenses to provide these benefits, saying, “This rate will be 2.5% for those with monthly incomes of up to 500 pesos, and 5% for those with salaries greater than 500 pesos.”

Likewise, it was explained that the cost of this salary increase must not increase the State Budget deficit approved for 2019. In this regard, it is imperative that measures be taken to make savings and strictly control expenses, in both budgeted and non-budgeted activities, while collecting all income generated, and taking advantage of all potential and reserves present in the economy.

In terms of the enterprise sector, the Minister of Economy and Planning recalled that in 2014, the approval of pay per performance regimens was decentralized. The allocation and distribution of salaries was linked to meeting specific indicators and administrative restrictions were eliminated. As a result, he said, the average salary had increased from 600 to 871 pesos by the end of 2018.

Despite the positive impact of these measures, the Minister noted that difficulties persist. Thus the Council of Ministers agreed to perfect pay per performance mechanisms in the enterprise sector, maintaining the link with production results, which will be implemented beginning in 2020.

Among the incentives, he emphasized the granting of authority to approve salary systems to enterprise directors, always prioritizing individual productivity wherever possible, and maintaining growth in earnings before taxes (compared to previous periods) as an indicator considered in enterprise pay for performance plans.

With the goal of avoiding the inflationary effect of the measures, he emphasized that the Minister of Finances and Prices will have the necessary mechanisms throughout the economy to mitigate possible price increases.

In this regard, the President noted that involved ministries must establish observatory mechanisms to stay abreast of prices, and of how consumption evolves, “So that we have time to rectify any element to prevent inflation.”

He likewise called for stimulating sales of food, construction materials, tourist packages, and offers made by the Cuban Telecommunications Enterprise, Etecsa, for example. In summary, he said, let’s all think about new options.

Díaz-Canel highlighted the need to be rational in filling staff positions. The person employed must be the one who will produce the most, because the measures are not meant to throw money around, but to give an incentive to those who work and contribute more, he said.

He likewise insisted that, from now on, cadres must be well trained to avoid erroneous interpretations, and systematic follow-up on developments around these issues must be provided.

The intention of this group of measures, he commented, is to strengthen the country’s development and confront the current difficult situation. Not all will be put into effect immediately, since they require more analysis and work.

Over the next few days, via different press media, our population will receive more detailed information on the scope of these decisions.

(Granma)

Samuel Rodiles Planas, head of the Physical Planning Institute, began the session with a presentation on land use and urban zoning plans for the Mariel Special Development Zone and the city of Trinidad, which were approved by the Council of Ministers.

Regarding the first, he said that the plan is a short term one, projecting through 2033 and identifies potentialities of the region such as its proximity to the Cuban capital, the existence of an available water supply, the presence of port infrastructure, airport, and communications, as well as highway and railroad access.

The Plan divides the Special Zone into sectors, dedicated to industry and logistics; tourism; and livestock, forestry and agricultural development. In addition, it projects the creation of conditions in nearby settlements to receive the expanding workforce that is expected and the improvement of those existent.In terms of the General Urban Zoning Plan for the city of Trinidad, with the greatest potential for tourism within the province of Sancti Spíritus, Rodiles said that the design guarantees the orderly, planned development of the city from the functional, structural, and environmental point of view. It is a novel vision of Trinidad, seen in all its splendor from the sea, with new areas designated for future development, while protecting the historic central district, recognized by UNESCO as a World Cultural Heritage Site, he said.Teresita Romero Rodríguez, president of the Sancti Spíritus Provincial Assembly of People’s Power, said she considered the plan a good one, with urban regulations that will allow for harmonious development. In addition, she said, the heritage value ​​of the city and its surroundings is preserved, adhering to established housing policy and measures that have been proposed as part of Tarea Vida, which guides adaptation to climate change. The plan was reconciled with the National Institute of Water Resources, given the municipality’s water supply issues.In this regard, Diaz-Canel said that the two plans should help to ensure that everything we do is coherent and better ordered development is achieved in these areas. Particularly Trinidad, he said, is a beautiful historic city, one of the first villas founded by the Spanish, with a great heritage and an active cultural and productive life.

FOREIGN TRADEAs part of the government’s regular review of the economic effects of irregularities in foreign trade operations, the Council of Ministers also addressed the situation in this arena, as of the end of 2018.Minister of Foreign Trade and Investment Rodrigo Malmierca Díaz explained that actions have been taken to reduce the damage and strengthen monitoring and accounting mechanisms put in place by the Ministry, as the governing body in this activity.He detailed follow-up action taken in such cases – contract breaches and violations of quality parameters, for example.

He specified that, in cases which have been fully analyzed, measures were adopted and sanctions applied, given the economic impact on the country.Among the logistical problems that hinder the efficiency of export and import operations, he identified payments for overstays in ports. Despite a continuing downward trend with respect to 2017, an increase is evident in the case of containers from general cargo ships, as a result of problems in ports, the reception of goods, and storage capacity.

The Minister stated that it has been possible to analyze the detected situation and improve management. Progress has been noted in the investigation of such cases, to determine underlying causes and individuals responsible.In this regard, he assured that the Ministry of Foreign Trade and Investment will continue to coordinate work with the Attorney General of the Republic’s Office.President Díaz-Canel recalled that Army General Raúl Castro Ruz, first secretary of the Party Central Committee, referred to the issue in 2017, stating that problems in foreign trade operations are extraordinary events, and merit close attention.Following this advice , Díaz-Canel emphasized, the governing authority of the Ministry of Foreign Trade and Investment has been recovered. He acknowledged that, although a more coherent system of detection and enforcement has now been established, problems must be definitively resolved.He insisted that daily analysis of issues must be conducted, to ensure that problems do not accumulate, and a greater response capacity is developed.

DEVELOPMENTS IN TRANSPORTATION

Minister Malmierca also presented a comprehensive report on work in the areas of foreign investment, use of external credits, and exports by entities affiliated with the Ministry of Transportation, a priority sector for the development of the country’s infrastructure, which has a significant impact on the functioning of the rest of the economy.Malmierca explained that the evaluation of these issues is vital to identify positive experiences, review difficulties, vulnerabilities, and project superior results.He recalled that transportation is among the sectors prioritized in foreign investment policy, to promote port infrastructure; construction and repair of ships and shipyards; the manufacture and repair of components, spare parts, and accessories; as well as the management of railroad shops, among others.He stressed that need is more attention to current operations and the identification of new ones.

At the same time, systematic work is required in providing managers of established enterprises opportunities to continue their training, as well as that of negotiating teams, so that the process of preparing new investments is not delayed.Regarding the use of external credits, he commented that this modality is traditionally used in the sector and that currently important investments are being executed or negotiated in airport, maritime-port, and railway activities.

The Cuban President highlighted the importance of transportation, since it plays a role in practically all economic activities. He stated that foreign investment is needed to improve airports and railways, as well as maritime-port activity, specifically cargo shipment, with great potential given our status as an island.Addressing foreign investment and credit, he insisted on more agile management, to take better advantage of opportunities, closely linked to the preparation of negotiating teams.

He commented that the country has assumed a number of debts to fund transportation projects, with which an important impact can be achieved, for example, in the railroad system, for transportation of cargo and passengers.

INTERNAL ACCOUNTING The Comptroller General of the Republic, Gladys Bejerano Portela, presented a report on the evaluation indiscipline, illegalities, and cases of administrative corruption in 2018, in which she assured that there exists a greater perception of risks and more urgency felt to implement effective internal control systems, focused on better financial-administrative management.Despite progress and the positive examples that are evident in various organizations, she insisted that problems detected are not new, and it has not been possible to put a stop to indiscipline, illegalities, and acts of corruption.

As underlying causes, identified were vulnerabilities in accounting systems; lack of documentation and primary records; incorrect book keeping; absence of daily cross-checks; and the failure to issue receipts for deliveries or the return of products, with poor monitoring of bodies responsible for supervision.Internal accounting systems – she insisted – are not meant only to detect crime, but precisely to avoid it and support efficient management. “Where there is no effective accounting system, the results are ephemeral or do not exist.”The most serious problem – the Comptroller stated – is at the basic production unit and enterprise level.

Hence the importance of spending more time at the primary level and reordering our work to listen more to people. “We do not accomplish anything with people going to courses and acquiring theoretical knowledge, if they do not have management skills.”Commenting on the issue, the Minister of Domestic Commerce, Betsy Díaz Velázquez, acknowledged that the greatest incidence of such criminal acts is within the wholesale and retail sector, hence her ministry’s work has focused on prevention in these arenas.

She commented that book keeping is not being adequately reconciled at the primary level, where most illegalities are taking place, and that measures are being taken to improve accounting.The President emphasized that, as part of efforts to confront illegalities, the problem of fuel theft must be addressed, noting that several measures have been adopted.He mentioned the recent investigation conducted at several transportation bases by Provincial Administration Councils, in which it was confirmed that the most common deficiencies are those identified by the Comptroller General, in relation to other crimes, such as the lack of primary documents to justify levels of activity; a reduction in mileage rates; lack of control of magnetic cards; and poor use of GPS.In many cases, deficiencies occur in entities that do not have defined procedural and enforcement plans. There is no control and this is the responsibility of leaders, who must play a more active role to achieve more efficient use of fuel, he said.

THE ECONOMY’S PERFORMANCE

Minister of Economy and Planning Alejandro Gil Fernández presented a report on the performance of the national economy as of the end of February, a period during which continued growth in exports of tobacco, rum, and seafood was noted.

He explained that in the months of January and February, some 2,093 vehicles arrived in the country, which should have a positive impact on the economy and in meeting the population’s needs. This, he said, should put us in a better position than last year.

Referring to energy resources, he explained that fuel allocations have been cut by 180 tons to entities that have not taken necessary steps to stem theft, as part of the implementation of a Council of Ministers directive to reduce by 50% the amount of fuel assigned for administrative work in entities given poor evaluations.

He also noted that, in the month of February, there were no outages in electrical service due to a deficit in generation during peak demand hours.

Gil reported that delivery plans for rice and beans were surpassed, and that planting projections for various food crops and tobacco are on schedule, with

449,900 hectares planted, representing 100.5% of what was expected by this date.

In terms of the sugar harvest, he pointed out that sugar production is falling short of projections by 16%, primarily as a result of breakdowns at mills. Despite the tension, he said, the industry remains determined to meet its commitments this season.

Tourist arrivals have increased, he said, as compared to the same period last year, and important markets like Canada and Russia have shown growth. On this point, Tourism Minister Manuel Marrero Cruz added that Santa María Cay and Jardines del Rey are consolidating their condition as the country’s most popular tourist destinations.

Gil additionally reported on progress being made is the recovery and development of railroads, including the arrival of silo, flat bed, and tipper cars, which will allow for a significant increase in annual cargo capacity. Plus, a number of box cars and passenger cars are being repaired.

He addressed the situation that has led to a decrease in the production of eggs, mainly the result of shortfalls in the import of poultry feed, which is being stabilized. In February, a total of 133,700,000 eggs were produced, 97.8% of the monthly plan, providing the supply needed for allocated subsidized sales, but not enough to meet demand on the unregulated market. A greater quantity is projected for March, but not yet enough to meet demand.

Shortages of wheat flour have also occurred, due to mechanical and electrical problems in the milling industry. This situation continues to affect the unregulated sales of bread.In this regard, the Minister of Food Industry, Iris Quiñones Rojas, explained that production has stabilized, reaching 43,000 tons in March, a figure that remains below what was projected by some 4,000 tons.

Gil reported on several measures adopted by the government to deal with shortages of products of basic necessity in retail stores, and avoid hoarding. These involve imports for the months of April, May, June, and July of cooking oil, chicken, and MDM for the production of ground meat and cold cuts, although he insisted on the importance of exploiting all potential for agricultural production and advancing local development projects in the food industry.

Finally, the Minister referred to slow progress on housing plans. On this point, President Díaz-Canel directed that the greatest attention be paid to the construction program, noting that rigorous follow-up has not been maintained. If we begin to accumulate more delays and don’t get back on schedule immediately, goals will not be met, he stated.He noted, for example, “There are many housing units that were completed in 2018 but still haven’t been certified as habitable.”
This is bureaucracy, he said, and we are creating another problem for people, since they are living in the homeillegally. Likewise noted were delays in granting construction licenses to both individuals and state entities.

These issues, Díaz-Canel added, will be more rigorously reviewed during coming visits to the provinces by the Council of Ministers, and working meetings will be devoted to evaluating progress in meeting goals for housing construction. Plus, the national press will publish reports, every three months, from provinces and municipalities, on results in this important program.

(Source: Granma)

Díaz-Canel directed ministry leaders to propose alternatives to address the pressing issue of housing, including facilities that could be adapted and made available to affected families.

He insisted on the urgency of identifying every person left without housing, to find a solution for everyone.

In referring to donations, he stressed that local efforts should be publicized and that all resources must reach those affected, while Minister of Foreign Trade and Investment RodrigoMalmierca reported that this process is well structured and has been put into action. He explained that support from governments and non-governmental organizations abroad is managed by Cuban embassies in those countries.

The Banco Financiero Internacional has established an account, 0300000005093523, for monetary contributions, as well as Banco Metropolitano: 0598770003953216. Also available to answer any questions in this regard is the email: donacionxlahabana@mincex.gob.cu

(Granma)

The President insisted that speed and much sensibility for those affected must define recovery efforts, and that repairs must leave facilities better than before they were damaged.

Division General Ramón Pardo Guerra, head of the Civil Defense General Staff provided an updated report, indicating that 1,286 dwellings were damaged, 1,238 of which have been visited. Total collapses number 123, and partial collapses 625.

(Granma)

“Reinforcing attention to the population at times like these is vital,” the President insisted. Work was undertaken promptly, beginning immediately after the disaster, and it is imperative to explain to the people what is being done, he stated.

From this very moment, we must begin to gather all the experiences we have gained from this weather phenomenon, to incorporate them in plans for disaster prevention and risk reduction, he indicated.

Division General Ramón Pardo Guerra, head of the National Civil Defense General Staff, reported that, according to an aerial inspection conducted the morning of January 28, “The tornado developed close to the Casino Deportivo and weakened east of Alamar.

“Estimates indicate that it traveled a distance of 11.5 kilometers, at a speed of 42.6 kilometers an hour, over 16 minutes. It began with an impact diameter of 500 meters, later widening to 1,000 meters at the end of its course,” he explained.

At this point, he said, significant damages have been reported, such as total and partial building collapses, fallen trees and utility poles; broken doors and windows, as well as automobiles and containers dragged and turned over by the strong winds. Expeditious work began early on the clearing and collection of rubble across the city, he emphasized

The number of deaths caused by the extreme weather ascended to four and a total of 195 injuries had been reported, with these individuals receiving attention in several hospitals, according to Public Health Minister José Ángel Portal Miranda. Material damage is concentrated in the municipalities of Diez de Octubre, Regla, Guanabacoa, and San Miguel, he said, in 11 health care facilities.

The most difficult situation exists at the Hijas de Galicia Maternal Hospital, from which 196 patients were evacuated, 18 of whom were released and are now at home.

Regarding housing, Minister of Construction René Mesa Villafaña confirmed that the greatest amount of damage was to roof tops, which will need to be surveyed to begin deliveries of repair materials.

Luis Antonio Torres Iríbar, Party first secretary in Havana, reported that initial surveys indicate that the number of dwellings affected has reached 1,238, of which 123 are total collapses and 625 partial, along with 224 that have lost their roofs entirely, and 124 to a lesser degree.

Given this information, President Díaz-Canel indicated that, as soon as losses are specified, distribution of the necessary resources to the population is to begin – via the different established means – so that these problems can be alleviated as soon as possible.

In terms of reestablishing electrical service, Minister of Energy and Mines Raúl García Barreiro reported that the issue should be resolved by January 31. Damage is concentrated in overhead lines, including both transmission and distribution, while only two substations remain out of service, those in Berroa and Guanabacoa, he said.

Antonio Rodríguez Rodríguez, president of the National Water Resources Institute, reported that damage to the system has been repaired. Affected neighborhoods are being served via tank trucks and large water storage tanks have been placed at a variety of points, accessible to the population.

More than 13,000 telephone lines have been reported out of operation at this time, reported Jorge Luis Perdomo Di-Lella, minister of Communications, while 12 brigades of 80 linemen, with specialized vehicles, are already working to reestablish service. Work is underway, as well, on the mobile phone network and WiFi hotspots, as well as outdoor equipment, where the principal damages are concentrated.

The most significant agricultural impact was to tobacco, in the Pinar del Río municipalities of San Juan and San Luis, sector Minister Gustavo Rodríguez Rollero reported. Damage to fields and greenhouses in areas that experienced heavy rain are yet to be accurately determined, he said.
Iris Quiñones Rojas, minister of Food Industry, stated that during the dawn hours of the 28th, the preparation of bread was resumed, to ensure the basic regulated supply, despite the fact that 36 bakeries remain without electricity.

Some 48 means of automotive transport are estimated to have suffered some type of damage, said the sector Minister, Eduardo Rodríguez Dávila. At the time of the meeting, he reported, the central rail line had been re-opened, and the Regla ferry was operating by early that morning, as an important commuter service for the municipality.Minister of Economy and Planning Alejandro Gil Fernández reported that the main resources needed to begin recovery work are available.

Schools were projected to reopen January 29 at all of the city’s educational institutions, with alternate sites being prepared in some cases, to avoid affecting the academic year, said Minister of Education Ena Elsa Velázquez Cobiella.

It was reported that as recovery work advances, the communications media will continue promptly providing the people with all details.

(Granma)

The President insisted that speed and much sensibility for those affected must define recovery efforts, and that repairs must leave facilities better than before they were damaged.

Division General Ramón Pardo Guerra, head of the Civil Defense General Staff provided an updated report, indicating that 1,286 dwellings were damaged, 1,238 of which have been visited. Total collapses number 123, and partial collapses 625.

The tornado developed as part of a line of locally severe storms moving across the western portion of the country on Sunday, ahead of a cold front.

Díaz-Canel visited the affected municipalities and during the day conducted two meetings of the Council of Ministers to evaluate the situation and adopt measures to advance the recovery, in the wake of damage caused by heavy rain and the tornado.

Inés María Chapman, a vice president of the Councils of State and Ministers, reported on repairs to the Southern Basin aqueduct, damaged by the tornado, the night of January 27, and added via Twitter, “We are here along with workers from Havana Water and the president of the INRH. A night of intense battle, to reestablish service.” Chapman and Antonio Rodríguez, president of the National Institute of Water Resources, toured the severely impacted municipality of Regla.

In the early hours of January 29, Roberto Morales Ojeda, a vice president of the Councils of State and Ministers, toured the Diez de Octubre Gyneco-Obstetric Hospital, severely damaged by the tornado. Via Twitter, he highlighted the efforts of workers and management to protect the lives of children and mothers. For his part, the Minister of Public Health, José Ángel Portal Miranda, expressed condolences to the families of those affected, and said that workers in the sector would work together to quickly rehabilitate damaged facilities.

The National Assembly of People’s Power also used its official Twitter account to convey condolences to families and friends of victims of the extreme weather events, writing, “All of the Cuban people’s support and solidarity for you. Now we must work together to recover from the damage, that is considerable.”

The Minister of Economy and Planning, Alejandro Gil Fernández, asserted on social media, “We are working for a rapid recovery of our capital. We will move forward, as always.”

Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez Parrilla joined those sending messages of encouragement to Havana’s people and government, calling for joint efforts to repair the damage as quickly as possible.

Likewise, Jorge Luis Perdomo, minister of Communications, stated, “Communications workers are already working on reestablishing services in affected areas, where exterior facilities suffered considerable damage. Routers and posts must be raised. Brigades are being reinforced with all the staff and resources available. Venceremos.”

It was also reported that Radio Cuba workers were repairing the transmission tower in the municipality of Regla, and that as a temporary measure, Radio Rebelde and Coco were being broadcast from other facilities.

Meisi Bolaños Weiss, minister of Finances and Prices reported that workers at the ministry and within its system, including the National Tax Office and insurance providers, are ready to support the recovery in Havana.

Minister of Foreign Trade and Investment Rodrigo Mal­mierca took to social media, as well, to convey a message to the people, writing, “Just as Fidel and Raúl taught us, President Díaz-Canel is in the trenches, along with the Cuban people. Condolences and conviction that no one will be left unprotected.”

This importance of operative, disciplined, and organized action to overcome the tornado damage in several capital city municipalities, during this stage of the recovery, was emphasized in a meeting of the Provincial Defense Council, activated immediately following the storms, and headed by its president, Luis Antonio Torres Irí­bar, who stated that the people must feel well supported.

After a preliminary report on damages, and the coordination of first responders’ efforts, Torres referred to directives issued by President Díaz-Canel, who called for rapid, well-organized work.

He said that providing the population with accurate, objective information; assuring food to those impacted; and analyzing alternatives to ensure fuel supplies, were among the President’s directives.

Torres recalled that Fidel taught us that no citizen can be left abandoned to fate, and recognized the efficient response of public health workers, not only in assisting victims, but in evacuating patients from the Hijas de Galicia Hospital in conjunction with firefighters.

OTHER WINDS OVER CUBA

After the tornado in Havana, embattled Venezuela, extended a friendly hand, that of a heroic people in the voice of its legitimate president, Nicolás Maduro, who tweeted, “People of Cuba and our brother President @Diaz­CanelB, you can count on all the solidarity and support of Venezuela at this difficult moment. I express my condolences to families of victims who have been affected by the tornado and heavy rains.”

A similar message arrived from Bolivia, where precisely on Sunday, underway were primary elections for members of several parties, another step forward for democracy, reported President Evo Morales, who likewise tweeted, “All of our solidarity with the sister people of Cuba, who suffered a strong tornado that left at least three persons dead and hundreds injured. We convey our condolences to the families of victims, and offer President @DiazCanelB our support in any way needed.”

The President of Nicaragua, Daniel Ortega, and Vice President Rosario Murillo, also sent Cuba “all our affection on this day of hardship and loss,” and referred to the words of Cuba’s ambassador in Nicaragua, Juan Carlos Hernández, who stated, “Our people will know how to overcome this situation”, Prensa Latina reported.From El Salvador, where the FMLN flooded the capital city’s streets to close their campaign prior to February 3 elections, President Salvador Sánchez Cerén, stated, “El Salvador send its best wishes for a speedy recovery to those who were injured, and expresses its solidarity to the many families affected by this natural phenomenon,” a Foreign Ministry communiqué reported.

Panama’s President Juan Varela, likewise affirmed on Twitter: “Our solidarity with

President @DiazCanelB, the people and government of Cuba, where a powerful tornado struck, leaving loss of life, injuries, and material damage in Havana.”

(Granma)

We must be more rigorous in our planning, which means reinforcing bodies charged with responsibility for economic affairs at all levels. It is imperative to create strong work teams to propose solutions and study alternatives. We must take advantage of the talent of academics and researchers in the area of economics and consider the proposals they make, Díaz-Canel stated.

He also emphasized the role of state enterprises and their harmonious relations with the non-state sector, which has been defined as complementary to the economy and needs to be provided a legal framework.

He reiterated the relevance of concepts emphasized by the Communist Party of Cuba Central Committee’s First Secretary, Army General Raúl Castro Ruz, about not spending more than we have as income, and not assuming commitments that we are not able to honor on time.

2019 ECONOMIC PLAN

As of the close of 2018, estimates indicate that the Cuban economy experienced slight growth, according to the Minister of Economy and Planning, Alejandro Gil Fernández, who during the meeting reported that commerce, telecommunications, manufacturing, public health, and social services were among the best performing sectors, while others such as the sugar industry, agriculture, construction, and mining did not meet projections.

The economic situation this year, he said, has been determined by a tense financial situation, affected by shortfalls in export revenue from activities such as tourism, sugar production, and medical services, linked in many cases to the effects of extreme weather events.

Added to this is an adverse international context, marked by the tightening of the blockade, in particular heightened financial persecution, as a result of the setback in relations between Cuba and the United States

Amidst these tensions, he stated, the Cuban economy did not contract, and, for example, the housing construction plan was met with more than 29,000 dwellings completed as the year ends, as a result of both government programs and individual efforts by the population.

Likewise, he reported, communications services, including cellular phone lines and internet access, increased.

The Minister said that for 2019, “a realistic, achievable plan,” has been developed, “that guarantees development and growth, strengthening the utilization of internal reserves,” with a focus on support for prioritized services for the population, maintaining supplies of basic products, and a greater variety of product lines in retail stores.

Increasing income from exports and strengthening domestic industry are a priority, he stated, with a view toward replacing imports of finished goods via the the importing of intermediate resources, supplies, and materials to take better advantage of the country’s internal capacity.

Another front of prioritized attention is strict adherence to investment project plans and timelines, to guarantee that financial resources are recuperated and projected benefits obtained, as soon as possible.

The proposed 2019 Economic Plan ensures the availability of resources aimed at increasing production and development programs in sectors such as energy, tourism, industry, and agriculture.The Minister stressed that next year’s Plan reflects the basic premises of not taking on more debt than we are capable of repaying; assuring Gross Domestic Product growth; and moving forward with development efforts.

STATE BUDGET

Next on the meeting’s agenda, Meisi Bolaños Weiss, deputy minister of Finances and Prices, presented an estimated balance sheet of the 2018 State Budget, which indicates that planned gross revenue will be surpassed.

She then presented a draft proposal for the 2019 budget, based on the principle of maintaining its social character, supporting social policies and comprehensive development programs in provinces and municipalities.

She assured that similar funding, with respect to the 2018 estimate, is to be maintained for state-supported activities, guaranteeing basic services to the population with special attention to Education and Public Health, to which 51% of the budget is directed.Bolaños stressed that the state budget provides funds for important benefits such as pensions and social security; as well as programs addressing the country’s changing demographics; subsidies for construction materials; and Tarea Vida, responding to challenges posed by climate change.

Referring to allocations to support non-budgeted activities, she emphasized efforts to promote greater efficiency and rational use of resources in the state enterprise sector and the need to eliminate the practice of planning expenditures with extra margins.

She noted that to achieve projections in a strict, efficient manner requires all actors in the economy to use their reserves and generate greater contributions to the budget, exercising greater control over the destination and rational use of funds.

Reporting next was María del Carmen Pérez Hernández, general director of the Sierra Maestra Science, Technology, and Innovation Center, who explained that the staff is continuing projects which the Comandante en Jefe developed during the last years of his life, focused on investigation, development, production, and distribution of products for the agro-industrial, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries, among others.

She pointed out that, based on a design by Fidel himself, the center works under the principle of consolidating research results and production of experimental items, to maintain a closed cycle, on the basis of which it is possible to implement a program of productive and commercial development.

The development of scientific projects, she said, includes all of the country’s ministries and leaders of Cuban scientific institutions, indicating that the entity takes advantage of all the scientific-technological ability created by the Revolution to ensure greater and better advances in these projects, which include Moringa as a nutritional supplement; alternative animal feeds with high-protein content; silk making; the production of raw materials for the concentrate industry; and Sacha Inchi. Several of these products were displayed at the meeting.

President Díaz-Canel reiterated the priority given these projects and stressed, “Giving continuity to the Comandante en Jefe’s ideas has allowed for the processing of raw materials and obtaining products that can replace imports, as well as the small-scale fabrication of other new products.”

(Granma)