A tour of Havana’s Arab quarter, sports and recreational activities, as well as the opening of the Calamo circle of interest at the Rafael Maria de Mendive elementary school, were part of the program prepared by the association’s board of directors.

The Rafael Maria de Mendive school, which underwent a complete renovation a few months ago, adjoins the UAC headquarters and is where Cuban National Hero José Martí received his early education; Calamo in the Spanish version of the Arabic word calam, which means pencil.

In a brief speech, UAC President Alfredo Deriche highlighted the participation of Arab subjects in the wars Cuba fought for its independence in the 19th century and, later, in the insurrection in the mountains and cities against the pro-American dictatorship of Fulgencio Batista (1952-1959).

It also highlighted the outstanding presence of Arab descendants in science, sports and the arts in Cuba.

The meeting, during which a sample of the cuisine and costumes of Levantine countries was offered, was attended by members of the Arab Diplomatic Corps accredited in the Island, officials of the Cuban Foreign Ministry and the Cuban Institute of Friendship with the Peoples.

pgh/abo/jcm/msl