Matanzas, 15 August 2022 (TDI): The President of Cuba, Miguel Mario Díaz-Canel Bermúdez expressed gratitude to the people of Venezuela and Mexico for helping Cuba. Venezuela and Mexico stood by Cuba during the challenging times of fire in the oil depot of Matanzas.
Oil Depot Fire in Matanzas
On the evening of 5 August, lightning struck one of the fuel storage tanks in Matanzas. Matanzas is the capital city of Cuba’s province, Matanzas. It is also home to Cuba’s largest port for receiving crude oil and fuel imports.
The explosion of the first tank which was at 50% capacity caused the second tank to catch fire too. Eventually, the four-tank area in Matanzas was engulfed by the fire followed by huge explosions.
The fire was named the worse one in Cuba’s history. Moreover, it caused massive blackouts around the province. Many countries and organizations stepped forward to aid Cuba in fighting against the fire.
Also Read: Canada expresses support for Cuba amid oil depot fire
Venezuela and Mexico’s help
When the fire had just erupted, it was difficult to enter the area due to the broiling temperature. As soon as the area got a bit clear, firefighters from Cuba entered the Matanzas port to put out the fire.
During this time, Venezuela and Mexico aided Cuba by sending more than 100 firefighters to help in putting out the fire.
It took about 5 days to get the fire under control which was all because of the help of Venezuela and Mexico. Their bravery along with the work of Cuban firefighters helped them put out the most dangerous fire in Cuba’s history.
The President of Cuba also wrote separate letters to the Presidents of Venezuela and Mexico. In the letters, President Diaz-Canel expressed gratitude for the help by both nations on behalf of Cuba.
Nunca olvidaremos el heroísmo y la hermandad de los mejicanos y venezolanos que vinieron a apoyarnos en el enfrentamiento al incendio. Nuestra eterna gratitud, reconocimiento y cariño. #CubaPorLaVida #CubaPorLaPaz#CubaEsAmorhttps://t.co/2Ctd9Ir9zI
— Miguel Díaz-Canel Bermúdez (@DiazCanelB) August 15, 2022
He stressed that their timely help has aided Cuba a lot in controlling the fire. Furthermore, he highlighted that their actions have instilled respect and admiration in the hearts of the people of Cuba.
Consequently, he told the Presidents that Cuba would never forget their kindness and will reciprocate their actions when needed.
Award Ceremony
To honor this help by the two countries, Cuba held an award ceremony for the solidarity forces on Sunday. The purpose of this ceremony was to recognize the efforts made by the fighters from both nations.
#Cuba🇨🇺 expresó este domingo su gratitud, y condecoró a colaboradores de México y Venezuela participantes en el enfrentamiento al incendio de grandes proporciones que afectó a la occidental ciudad de Matanzas.
🔗https://t.co/jPTu3TYtYu pic.twitter.com/M8MAh59yHv
— Cancillería de Cuba (@CubaMINREX) August 14, 2022
Five experts from Venezuela and Mexico who have worked at the frontline to combat the fire were awarded the Order of Solidarity.
The aid workers from both nations also received a replica of the machete of Major General Antonio Maceo Grajales. The Minister of Revolutionary Armed Forces of Cuba, Alvaro Lopez Miera himself delivered the award.
At the proposal of the Cuban Institute of Friendship with the Peoples, Friendship Medal was also awarded to these workers. Finally, the ceremony also observed a minute of silence to pay tribute to the people who lost their lives in the incident.
