The Minister of Culture, Tourism, and the Creative Economy the Honourable Adrian Thomas received Cuban Ambassador Ivette Martínez in his office to discuss the results of the mission of Cuban heritage experts to Grenada.
Between 12 and 25 August, Jose Antonio González Rodríguez and architect Nilson Acosta Reyes, Cuban specialists from the Cuban National Heritage Council, visited Grenada in accordance with the Memorandum of Understanding signed between the ministries of culture of both countries. With the goal of evaluating and presenting a project for the improvement of the Grenada National Museum and other spaces in need of historical preservation, the experts exchanged views with more than a dozen authorities involved in the conservation and improved use of museum spaces.
For the Cuban diplomat, the assessment conducted by Cuban specialists on the state of protection of heritage assets and properties in Grenada and projections for their restoration, rehabilitation, and cultural and tourism use is an easy starting point, given the thoroughness and detail of the final report. She also emphasised that Cuba has extensive experience in heritage conservation and is willing to offer technical assistance for the development of legal regulations for the protection of cultural heritage, the development of museological guidelines, fortification rehabilitation projects, and restoration workshops.
For his part, Minister Thomas acknowledged the expertise with which the Cuban specialists worked and the usefulness of each detail reflected in the report. He added that the government of Grenada is committed to the rescue and conservation of the islands’ heritage, which primarily serves to promote the national identity of the Grenadians and introduce visitors to the islands’ cultural and historical richness. Among the museum spaces assessed for restoration and conservation are the Grenada National Museum, Fort George, Fort Matthew and Fort Frederick, the Carriacou Museum, and the National Gallery. The report also included assessments for the construction of a monument dedicated to the Grenadian martyrs who died during the invasion.
The parties reiterated their willingness to promote this bilateral cooperation for the development and enjoyment of Grenada’s heritage. They acknowledged the support provided by Grenadian Ambassador Glen Noel from Havana for the realisation and success of this project.
Embassy of Cuba in Grenada
