More than 250 friends from the May Day solidarity brigades, hailing from 20 nations, along with the Canadian Che Guevara brigade, were received today by the Cuban Institute of Friendship with the Peoples (ICAP), which expressed gratitude for their resolute support in the face of imperial threats.

The welcoming ceremony for the enthusiastic activists, who traveled to the island to share in the International Workers' Day celebrations, took place at the Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (CIGB). The visitors aim to manifest their backing for a people resisting the economic and oil blockade, as well as the aggressiveness of the U.S. government.

Fernando González Llort, president of ICAP, expressed his gratitude to the friends, stating: “You arrive at complex moments in Cuba's history and the world's reality; your presence is a powerful message of solidarity in support of the country's defense and its right to be independent.”

He remarked, “We do not want conflict; we want peace and tranquility to develop the country, but if we are attacked, we will defend ourselves, knowing we are accompanied by millions of people worldwide who will stand with us.”

In his speech, which received a long standing ovation, he highlighted that the Cuban people are currently signing a commitment to defend the Homeland, “and you are also signing that commitment with your presence, demonstrating that Cuba is not alone.”

Yasel Ramos, deputy director of the CIGB, also greeted the brigadistas. He evoked the brilliance of Commander-in-Chief Fidel Castro, who founded the center in 1986, recalling that five years prior, Cuba produced interferons for the first time—an achievement just then being reached by developed nations.

In the initial research processes, Cuba did not have access to reagents due to the blockade, but they were obtained thanks to solidarity, he emphasized. He reiterated the welcome to the brigadistas, describing their visit as a gift to the CIGB on its 40th anniversary during the year of Fidel’s centenary.

During the event, the ICAP 65th Anniversary Seal was presented to Dominga Flores (Puerto Rico) and Ricardo Haesbaert (Brazil). This honor was granted to prominent organizations involved in campaigns to donate solar panels to the Julio Antonio Mella Camp in Caimito, such as the Latin American and Caribbean Network of Solidarity with Cuba and Just Causes.

The brigade members will participate in the May Day rally and other international events scheduled for the date, joining hundreds of other international friends celebrating on the island.