Writing on the social media platform X, the president highlighted the meeting held with Parsons and Michele Formonte, the organization’s Development Director for the Americas. He also noted the presence of multi-champion athlete Omara Durand, whom he described as the “pride of the homeland.”

“I reaffirmed #Cuba’s commitment to Paralympic sport to them,” the head of state said in his post.

During the meeting, Diaz-Canel confirmed the political and governmental will to keep support for this discipline, even during a complex time for the country.

He based this support on a fundamental principle of social justice and inclusion—inherent to the Cuban Revolution—aimed at gaining greater global recognition for the Paralympic movement.

He also offered to share the island’s expertise—including the knowledge of the University of Sports Sciences and the scientific insights of research centers—to collaborate on joint projects and develop training facilities.

Parsons, who expressed gratitude for the reception and emphasized the bonds of brotherhood with the island, praised the career of Omara Durand—president of the Cuban Paralympic Committee—calling her an inspiring example, especially for women.

During the visit, the guests toured the “Solidaridad con Panama” special school—where education, art, and inclusion come together—as well as Durand’s training track, and discussed future support programs for the Cuban Paralympic movement.

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