The leader of the Cuban Revolution, Raúl Castro, today sent a congratulatory letter to the National Institute of State Reserves (INRE) on its 45th anniversary.

The message was read during the political-cultural ceremony in honor of the institution, presided over by the Secretary of the Council of Ministers, Division General José Amado Ricardo, and the Vice Minister of the Revolutionary Armed Forces, Army Corps General Joaquín Quintas Solá, Hero of the Republic of Cuba.

In his message, Raúl Castro recalled that it was the historic leader, Fidel Castro, who, “with the same strategic vision from the Sierra Maestra, where he ordered resources to be conserved amid the insurrectional struggle, conceived and created the INRE in 1981.”

“This reinforces our certainty that as long as there is a strategic reserve, the Homeland will have the means to defend itself,” emphasized the Army General.

Minister of Economy and Planning Joaquín Alonso read the congratulatory message sent by Prime Minister Manuel Marrero, who highlighted INRE's role in confronting natural disasters, epidemics such as COVID-19, and in strengthening the country's defensive capacity, despite the intensification of the U.S. blockade.

During the tribute, Francisco Alba, Vice President of Material Reserves, received the Combatant of Production and Defense medal, while several directors were distinguished with the status of Outstanding in Defense Preparation.

According to the newspaper Granma, throughout its 45 years of existence, INRE has proven to be an essential pillar for the nation, guaranteeing economic stability in times of crisis and reinforcing the country's defensive capacity.