Cuban Residents in Europe Convene in Rome
The 17th Meeting of Cuban Residents in Europe (ECRE) officially opened in Rome, Italy, on October 24, 2025, with a vibrant patriotic march and cultural festivities. The gathering, set to conclude on October 26, brings together Cuban nationals residing across Europe to express solidarity with their homeland and to condemn the economic blockade imposed by the United States.
Delegates initiated the event with a march from the monument dedicated to Italian hero Giuseppe Manzini in central Rome, proceeding towards the Cuban Embassy. Participants carried Cuban flags and chanted slogans against the US economic blockade, culminating in an inaugural ceremony at the diplomatic mission.
Cultural Exchange and Anti-Blockade Stance
Running concurrently with the ECRE is the 4th 'Cuba va conmigo' Cultural Festival. This festival, which promotes cultural ties between Cuba and its artists abroad, is being held outside the Caribbean nation for the first time. It showcases various artistic expressions, including music, dance, painting, and literature.
A central theme of the meeting is the unwavering support for Cuba and a strong condemnation of the economic, commercial, and financial blockade enforced by the United States. Organizers and participants aim to highlight the severe impact of these sanctions on the Cuban people and to advocate for their cessation.
Key Discussions and Dedications
The agenda for the three-day event includes panels and discussions on several critical topics. These include:
- The strategic role of associations of Cubans residing abroad in disseminating and defending Cuban cultural identity.
- The enduring relevance of the ideas of Cuba's national hero, José Martí.
- Initiatives for working with new generations.
- The severe effects of the US blockade on Cubans.
- The defense of national sovereignty and the role of international solidarity.
- The work carried out by the Cuban Medical Brigade in Italy.
The 17th ECRE is dedicated to the 130th anniversary of José Martí's death in combat, commemorated on May 19, and the upcoming 100th birthday of the historic leader of the Cuban Revolution, Fidel Castro, to be celebrated on August 13, 2026. The meeting's theme, 'Con todos y para el bien de todos' ('With all and for the good of all'), is a phrase attributed to José Martí.
Organizers and Participants
Among the key figures involved in the event are Olga Lídia Priel, vice-coordinator of the associations of Cubans residing in Central and Southern Italy and President of the Organizing Committee, and Ulises Mora, representing Cuban residents in Italy. Mirta Granda, the Cuban Ambassador to Italy, and Ana Teresita González, Head of the General Directorate of Consular Affairs and Attention to Cubans Residing Abroad (DACCRE), are also participating. The previous 16th ECRE was held in Madrid in May of the previous year.
6 Comments
Raphael
Martí's ideals are clearly alive and well. This event is a true inspiration for Cubans everywhere.
Leonardo
Bravo to the organizers! Celebrating heritage and standing up for Cuba's sovereignty is paramount.
Michelangelo
This doesn't represent the true feelings of many Cubans in Europe, who seek freedom, not more communism.
Leonardo
Expressing solidarity for Cuba's sovereignty is a legitimate concern for many. Still, a truly inclusive event should also provide a platform for voices critical of the government's internal policies.
Michelangelo
The US blockade undoubtedly causes hardship for the Cuban people, yet the government's own policies and lack of economic reforms also contribute significantly to the struggles faced daily.
Leonardo
José Martí's vision of 'Con todos y para el bien de todos' is inspiring. But applying it to a system that restricts freedoms raises questions about its true implementation for all citizens.