Saint Lucia and Cuba share more than diplomatic relations. October is celebrated as culture heritage month in both countries. Wednesday 20th has special significance for the Cuban people. Cuban Ambassador to Saint Lucia Her Excellency Mrs Lydia Gonzalez Navarro said the observance is of profound significance to the people of her country. .

?October 20, 1868, was established in Cuba as Day of Cuban Culture honouring the when the Mambi troops under the leadership of Carlos Manuel de Cespedes, who is called in Cuba, the Father of the homeland, set free Bayamo city. It was on that occasion that the people, for the first time sang our national hymn."

In Cuba, in addition to the festivities, the day is marked by the signing of the National Hymn at official and private activities.

"Our National hymn was written by Percuho Figueredo as a war anthem. It is called La Bayamesa. The name La Bayamesa refers to the patriotic and revolutionary character of our people,"Her Excellency Gonzalez Navarro said.

The GIS take this opportunity to wish Ambassador Her Excellency Mrs Lydia Gonzalez Navarro and the people of Cuba happy celebrations.