The Cuban diplomat expressed his countrys support for Melaka and Georgetown to obtain designation as World Heritage Sites, bestowed by UNESCO, whose standing committee must decide on the matter this summer.

Amores noted the presence in Malacca of a Casa Cuba, a center in this coastal city for spreading Cuban culture in the area and a fruit of collaboration with the regional government.

The ambassador also expressed Cubas decision to continue developing ties with the State of Malacca, starting with the areas identified by Chief Minister of State Datuk Sri Mohamed Ali Rustam during his official visit to Cuba in June 2007.

In his speech to the convention, Rustam greeted the presence of the Casa Cuba in Malacca, and recalled his visit to Havana last year. He reaffirmed the Malaysian governments desire to move forward on joint projects with Cuba in diverse fields such as restoration and biotechnology.

Rustam also urged other countries to take Cubas example and open cultural centers that contribute to the colorful cultural panorama in this ancient city.

The two day event that closed last week brought together representatives of the different embassies in Kuala Lumpur and delegates of the different sister cities from around the world with Malacca.

(Cubarte)