In a brief ceremony at the Embassy, the diplomat noted that Canadian citizens have had consular services in this renowned tourist destination for over 30 years.

Gartshore said that the new consul, Brian Paivo, who has a wealth of experience in tourism and an extensive network of contacts, will lead the consular assistance to all Canadian vacationers traveling between Varadero and Cayo Coco, in the province of Ciego de Avila, and all intermediate destinations.

Paivo stated that the resumption of consular services in Varadero after approximately four years of inactivity is a significant step for Canadian citizens who will have a guarantee of assistance in Cuba’s major coastal resort.

Also present at the ceremony were Matanzas Vice Governor Marieta Poey and officials from the Ministry of Tourism.

According to the National Statistics and Information Office (ONEI), some 940,000 tourists from Canada visited Cuba in 2023.

The number of Canadian visitors is expected to exceed one million in 2024.

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