Jamaica, Cuba sign cultural agreement

JAMAICA:

An AGREEMENT for cultural cooperation and exchange has been signed between Jamaica and Cuba, which seeks to update an earlier agreement between the two countries which was originally signed during the 1970s.

We are promoting and advancing a cultural revolution in Jamaica and Cuba can help us to make that happen, said Culture Minister Lisa Hanna, who signed the agreement on Jamaica's behalf last week.

Hanna said many areas of opportunities existed for both countries to share best practices and exchange talent that can improve their cultural products.

Minister Hanna said Jamaica and Cuba are two of the world's strongest cultural brands, with Cuba being known particularly for its resilience and artistic strength and Jamaica having a strong global recognition, particularly in the areas of music and sports. Hanna said the time was opportune for both countries to build on the excellent relations they have shared over many years by deepening cooperation and exchanges in culture, particularly for the benefit of Jamaican and Cuban youth.

Cuba's Culture Minister Rafael Bernal said, "It is a pleasure for Cuba to sign this cooperation agreement with Jamaica, which strengthens the collaboration between our two countries as part of one family for the benefit of Jamaicans and Cubans."

He said he looked forward to the exchange of specialists that could help both countries intensify and strengthen their cultural development.