A note published by the Cuban Embassy in Rome pointed out that officials from the diplomatic mission, along with directors of the National Association of Italy-Cuba Friendship (ANAIC), participated in the event.

This festival, which will run until July 19, is considered an important space for cultural exchange and encounter, with offerings related to music, dance, and international gastronomy, while also fostering dialogue between different traditions and cultures, the statement emphasizes.

As part of the activities, funds were raised to support institutional projects benefiting the Cuban people, as an expression of solidarity and the bonds of friendship between the two nations.

It also provided a forum for assessing the current situation in Cuba, marked by the impact of unilateral coercive measures imposed by the United States government, particularly the economic, commercial, financial, and energy blockade, which intensified during the administration of Donald Trump.

It was an opportunity to boost the rich cultural heritage of the Caribbean nation, open to exchange, cooperation, and dialogue with the international community, despite the ongoing difficulties it faces as a result of the illegal blockade imposed by the United States government against the Cuban people, the statement added.

This Ritmos Nocturnos festival, based in the city of Castelnuovo, contributes to strengthening the bonds of friendship and cultural cooperation between Cuba and Italy, the source added.

jdt/arm/idm/ort