Cuba and Belgium Develop Projects to Increase Cacao Production

Joint projects between Belgium and Cuba to increase the agricultural-ecological production of cacao in the Cuban eastern region are in progress at a good pace, as Patrick Van Gheel, Belgian ambassador to this country, verified here.

During his working visit to the University of Guantanamo (UG), the diplomat assessed as positive the results of one of the programs boosted by that institution, sponsored by the Kingdom of Belgium for more than half a million euros.

The objective of that program is increasing production of high-quality cacao to obtain chocolate that can be presented at the international market, especially in that country, where that product is highly appreciated and consumed.

Chocolate is very important in the life of a Belgian person. Thus, we are helping to maintain cacao crops with projects like this, said Van Gheel, who also expressed interest in extending cooperation with the UG to other development lines.

UG Rector Alberto Turro explained the results of the project after implementing new technology and training professors and personnel directly related to production.

He said the province has other natural resources, such as coffee, coconut and wood, but knowledge and technology are necessary to boost exploitation plans that contribute to the economic progress of this region.