Building Bridges: Cuban Consul Shares Her Nation’s Story
On June 15, Times Core had the privilege of interviewing Ms. Danae G. Dovale de la Cruz, consul at the Embassy of Cuba in Seoul. Held at the embassy, the interview took place in a colorful setting that reflected the warmth and vibrancy of Cuban culture. The embassy serves as an important bridge connecting the people of Cuba and South Korea.
A seasoned diplomat with 11 years of experience, Dovale de la Cruz began by recalling her first impressions of South Korea. After spending many years serving in Venezuela, her current post is her first assignment in East Asia. She described her arrival in Korea as both exciting and very different from her previous experiences.
Turning to Cuban culture, she compared it to ajiaco, a traditional stew made with chicken, corn, and several kinds of potatoes. Like the dish, she explained, Cuban culture is a blend of many influences, particularly Spanish and African traditions, that have come together to create a distinct national identity.
The consul also highlighted resilience as one of Cuba’s defining qualities. She pointed to the country’s organoponicos, an internationally recognized system of sustainable urban organic farming. Developed during the economic hardships of the 1990s, when agricultural imports were severely restricted due to the collapse of the Soviet Union and the reinforcement of the U.S. blockade, the system relies on compost and other organic methods rather than chemical fertilizers. Today, it continues to support local food production and strengthen food security.
However, she acknowledged that Cuba still faces major challenges. Long-standing U.S. sanctions and a virtually total oil blockade have contributed to severe fuel shortages and an energy crisis, resulting in frequent power outages that disrupt transportation, healthcare, and education. In response, Cuba is expanding renewable energy projects, including the installation of large numbers of solar panels.
“The sanctions will continue, but we will overcome,” the consul said in a calm but resolute tone.
Cuba has been under a U.S. embargo for the past 66 years, which has stunted its economy and caused lasting damage across generations. These external pressures are currently hitting the Cuban people harder than ever.
Closing the interview, Dovale de la Cruz encouraged Korean students to stay curious, learn foreign languages, and remain open to different cultures. She said curiosity helps young people break down barriers, build friendships across borders, and create a more connected world.
Hyundong Lee Staff Reporter teen/1784525010/1613367592
1. How did the consul describe her Korean arrival?
2. Which traditional stew represents diverse Cuban culture?
3. Why did Cuba develop sustainable urban farming?
4. How is Cuba expanding domestic renewable energy?
1. Should nations help during severe economic blockades?
2. Can organic farming guarantee national food security?
3. Does cultural resilience help nations face hardships?
4. Is curiosity effective for breaking diplomatic barriers?
On June 15, Times Core had the privilege of interviewing Ms. Danae G. Dovale de la Cruz, consul at the Embassy of Cuba in Seoul. Held at the embassy, the interview took place in a colorful setting that reflected the warmth and vibrancy of Cuban culture. The embassy serves as an important bridge connecting the people of Cuba and South Korea.
However, she acknowledged that Cuba still faces major challenges. Long-standing U.S. sanctions and a virtually total oil blockade have contributed to severe fuel shortages and an energy crisis, resulting in frequent power outages that disrupt transportation, healthcare, and education. In response, Cuba is expanding renewable energy projects, including the installation of large numbers of solar panels.
