This follows a visit by an evaluation commission to the western province of Pinar del Rio, which took place from October 5 to 10 of this year.

  The same sources highlighted that this decision recognizes the technical quality of the report submitted by Cuba and the significance of the geological heritage of the Vinales Valley, as well as the Caribbean nation’s capacity to ensure its conservation.

  Among the strengths of the Cuban nomination are its direct links to government ministries and policymakers, and the support of a scientific council composed of approximately 15 specialists from various disciplines.

  Members of the Council spoke positively about the Cuban dossier, noting that its technical quality is particularly impressive given the difficult economic and material circumstances under which this effort was carried out.

  Furthermore, the recommendation serves as an acknowledgment of the scientific, organizational, and human capabilities of the Cuban teams, as well as their commitment to building a collective project for conservation and sustainable development—even under extraordinarily complex conditions.

  Upon learning of the decision, María del Carmen Herrera, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Cuba to UNESCO, thanked the Council and the evaluators for the rigor of their work and highlighted the significance of this outcome for the country.

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