I had the opportunity to experience Japan for the first time in 2001 when I accompanied the former minister of foreign affairs of Cuba on his official visit. It was celebrating the first political dialogue between both foreign ministers and also served as preparation for the historic leader of the Cuban Revolution, Fidel Castro's, second visit to Japan in 2003.

There is a quote by our national hero, Jose Marti, that I've always had as a guide, “To act is the best way to speak.” I strive to fulfill it; to ensure that ideas and goals come true. I also believe that the behavior of people must be consistent with their words.

I feel satisfaction for having contributed modestly, but actively while remaining committed to Cuban diplomacy, in correspondence with the values, culture and history of the country that I represent. I wish to continue achieving this in Japan, a country admired and respected by Cubans, and with which we are united by a friendship of more than 400 years.

As a representative of Cuba, I intend to contribute to the deepening of the historic bonds of friendship and cooperation between both nations. Our country attaches high priority to its bilateral ties with Japan, and progress is currently being made to increase trade, cultural, scientific, academic and sports cooperation, among other things.

I believe that all those who have the opportunity to visit Japan, or to work and live in it, should consider it an adventure to approach with simultaneous enthusiasm and seriousness. Any sense of bewilderment for the enigmas of their culture and society is erased when the wonders of their history and everyday reality are revealed to us.