President of the Republic of Cuba Miguel Diaz-Canel arrived in St Vincent and the Grenadines earlier today for an official three-day visit, from December 3 to 5, 2022.

President of Cuba Miguel Diaz-Canel on the saluting dais as he receives a musical salute at the Argyle International Airport. At his left is Governor General Dame Susan Dougan. (API photo)

In what is being described as a “working visit”, the President and his delegation were welcomed by Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves, members of Cabinet, Parliamentarians and members of the Diplomatic Corps.

President Diaz-Canel was taken on a guided tour of the AIA including of the Interpretation Centre which documents the construction of the airport in which Cuba, under the leadership of the late President Fidel Castro played an instrumental role.(API photo)

The President was taken on a guided tour of the Argyle International Airport (AIA); this country’s largest capital project, of which Cuba played an instrumental role both financial and technically in its construction.

During the tour, the delegates visited the AIA Interpretation Centre, which documents in photos and text the construction of the AIA.

President of Cuba during the construction of AIA, the late Fidel Castro, along with the late Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez and the late Patrick Manning, former President of Trinidad and Tobago, formed part of what Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves termed “the Coalition of the Willing” in ensuring the completion of the construction of the airport.

Girl Guides were among the uniformed groups who turned out to welcome the President. (API photo)

During the welcome ceremony for today’s historic visit, His Excellency Miguel Diaz-Canel was also greeted by pupils of different primary schools, the Cadet Corps, the Girl Guides and the South East Steel Orchestra.

The President and his delegation will, over the next few days engage Prime Minister Dr the Hon. Ralph Gonsalves and members of Cabinet in a series of meetings, courtesy calls, including an address during a special sitting of Parliament. (API)