During a meeting with the Cuban community residing in the Midlands region of the United Kingdom, updated information was shared on the national situation in Cuba, including the impact of the energy crisis and the effects of the blockade.
A representation of Cubans residing in the Midlands region participated in a meeting with the Councillor in charge of Consular Affairs, Ivian Alfonso, who made a working visit to the city of Birmingham to strengthen contact with the Cuban community in this locality, which also includes the cities of Coventry, Hereford, Lichfield, Stoke-on-Trent, Wolverhampton and Worcester.
During the exchange, the participants discussed important issues such as the new laws on Immigration, Foreigners and Citizenship, approved by the Cuban National Assembly last July. In addition, guidance was offered on the current regulations for the importation of non-commercial products, and consular advice was provided on various procedures.
The community expressed their interest in receiving first-hand information on the Cuban reality, highlighting the importance of these meetings. Many Cubans joined virtually, which made it possible to extend the information to a larger number of interested people, especially on issues such as the country's energy situation and the worsening difficulties due to the economic, commercial and financial blockade imposed by the United States.
Those present reiterated their firm condemnation of the blockade and expressed their deep appreciation for the efforts of Cubans living abroad, whose support and solidarity contribute significantly to mitigating the effects of this unjust policy. The diplomatic mission reaffirmed its commitment to continue working closely with the community to maintain the flow of information and mutual support for the benefit of the Cuban people.
The meeting was also an opportunity to acknowledge the valuable support of the Cuban community in Birmingham in the campaign to send two containers of medicines to Cuba. This action of solidarity takes on special relevance in a context marked by the difficulties imposed by the blockade, which continues to affect the well-being of the Cuban population, especially in sensitive sectors such as health.