Unity in diversity prevailed in a meeting between the leaders of religious organizations and denominations, as well as for fraternal associations, and the highest leadership of the Cuban Communist Party (PCC), the Government, and the mass organizations in the eastern province of Las Tunas.

Las Tunas, Cuba.- After receiving an overview of the COVID-19 situation in this territory, the meeting focused on expanding the points of contact that allow local authorities to consolidate these spaces for interaction with this sector of civil society. The purpose insisted Manuel Pérez Gallego, first secretary of the PCC in the province, is “to listen to you and find, together, the way to improve the life of the people. It is a talking between Cubans and patriots," the also member of the PCC Central Committee said.

Pérez Gallego had words of gratitude to those who have been there from the convocation of their congregation or association to face the COVID-19 pandemic. He also highlighted the positive response of these social actors in complying with the hygiene guidelines established to prevent the spread of SARS-CoV-2. He also urged them to join the effort of the revolutionary institutions to help change the economic and social situation of neighborhoods and communities that have lagged in the common development of the nation.

In those areas, explained the political leader, “we not only want to solve material problems but also from a spiritual point of view, that people be happier; and you can contribute to that, as you have been doing.

"That you join us, that you give ideas, and be part of the proposals so that the majority of the population has a fuller and more dignified life," he said.

The guests expressed their concerns and suggestions with total transparency and freedom. Some were related to the communication between religious institutions and authorities in the establishment of closing and opening measures, in line with the epidemiological situation in the province. Others hovered about the quality of neurological services that have been under unprecedented tension due to the new coronavirus pandemic. "Not everything is a matter of material, but of the quality of care," warned the parish priest of the Immaculate Conception Church, in the city of Las Tunas.

Others, like the freemason Carlos Manuel Ramos Oliva, called for joint work. "This is a union that must flow more, listen to all of us," he said, to later refer to the efforts they make channeling citizen solidarity in these difficult times. "It's the most patriotic thing we can do," he affirmed.

After commenting that the economic limitations of recent years reduced the ability of the Cuban State to support as it would like the daily work of religious and fraternal institutions, especially in the repair of their temples or headquarters, the governor Jaime Chiang Vega reiterated the willingness to continue to do so. "We have as common denominators our condition as Cubans and wanting to make a better country," he said.

Although they are part of a traditional practice, these spaces for dialogue between government institutions and Cuban politics with representatives of churches and fraternal associations have been strengthened in recent months.