The University of Nicosia Library and Information Centre, in collaboration with the Embassy of Cuba in Cyprus, hosted a distinguished book presentation event for “Ιστορία της Κούβας, Η πρόκληση του Ζυγού και του Άστρου” ("History of Cuba: The Challenge of the Yoke and the Star") by Professor José Cantón Navarro, published by Almyra in 2023. The event took place at the University of Nicosia’s Library, on Monday October, 7th drawing a remarkable group of guests, esteemed speakers, and an engaged audience.
Mrs Mina Charalambous, Director of Libraries at the University of Nicosia, opened the event expressing her delight in hosting such a culturally significant occasion. The program included a series of insightful speeches, starting with an address by the Rector of the University of Nicosia, Professor Philippos Pouyioutas. His remarks were followed by the Ambassador of Cuba to Cyprus, Mr. Angel Gustavo Suarez Cordero, who shared his reflections on the importance of the book and the Cuban history.
Mr. Marios Georgiou, publisher at Almyra, offered a glimpse into the publication process and acknowledged the contributions of the book's late translator, Andreas Ignatiou.
The book was presented by Professor Nicos Trimikliniotis, Professor of Sociology, Social Sciences, and Law at the University of Nicosia, and Mr. Israel Domínguez Pérez, a visiting writer from Cuba.
Their talks provided valuable insights into the book, which offers a concise exploration of the historical events that have shaped Cuban society. Starting from the arrival of the Spanish conquistadors to the present day, it outlines the history of the Cuban people through a human-centered approach. A people composed of a blend of cultures – indigenous, Spanish, and African – who, despite their diverse origins, come together form Cuba's multicultural society, thriving and envisioning the future as Cubans, rather than being defined by their roots. The narrative delves into a history of extreme exploitation, corruption, and oppression, which led to two significant revolutions, ultimately bringing about the long-sought victory of the Cuban people.
The event was honored by the presence of several notable figures from Cuba, including:
- Ms. Nieves Cárdenas López, President of the Section of Children's and Young People's Literature of the UNESCO Writers' Association
- Mr. Arístides Vega Chapu, Coordinator and Editor of the cultural magazine “Guano”
- Mr. Idiel Alberto García Romero, Director of Editorial Capiro
- Ms. Alina Torres Byrne, Communications Manager at Artex
The University of Nicosia Library and Information Centre and the Embassy of Cuba in Cyprus extend their heartfelt thanks to all participants and attendees for making the event a memorable success.