CubaMinrex. Sitio del Ministerio de Relaciones Exteriores de Cuba

Raúl Castro Speaks at Closing Parliament Session.

CUBA, 18th, december 2010.-  (RHC) President Raúl Castro made a speech at the closing session of the Seventh legislature of the Cuban National Assembly, in which he urged for the acceptance of the economic and social changes that Cuba is implementing as a guarantee to save the revolution.

In a two-hour speech, Raúl Castro emphasized that the initiatives introduced regarding the Cuban economy do not mean the end of the ideals of the revolution to create an equal society, but rather to strengthen, not replace, socialism.

The Cuban leader stressed the need for the country and its leaders to correct mistakes because, otherwise, the Revolution and efforts made by many generations will collapse. Raul Castro said: ¨We are already running out of time. If we don´t change things now, we will bring about the collapse (…) of efforts by many generations.”

Also speaking during the final day of discussions of the Sixth Ordinary Period of Sessions of the Seventh Legislature of the Cuban National Assembly, Vice President of the Council of Ministers, Marino Murillo said Cuba foresees a 3.1 percent growth of its Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in 2011, according to the Economy Plan approved, also on Saturday, by the National Assembly of People’s Power.

He continued to say Cuba has achieved significant advances in the renegotiation of its debts with its principal creditors.

In the future we will not assume debts which will not be possible to pay later. He also said, "I which to thank our commercial and financial partners for their confidence in us and their comprehension, to whom I ratify my firmest purpose of punctually honouring the contracted commitments."

The last report on the Cuban external debt rose to 17.800 millions dollars in 2007.

When stating that Cuba foresees a 3.1 percent GDP growth for 2011, Murillo recalled that Cuba’s GDP increased by 2.1 percent in 2010.

Therefore, the challenge will become higher and it will be necessary to put an end to inefficiencies that previously led to indiscipline, lack of responsibility and integrity.

The Minister for Economy and Planning explained that efforts to increase exports, substitution of imports, and energy conservation will continue to be the main objectives amidst the current wage cuts and staff reorganization aimed at increasing productivity. (Cubaminrex-RHC)

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