The private sector in Cuba will be able to engage directly in foreign trade activities. However, selectively and under the Ministry of Foreign Trade and Investment (MINCEX) supervision, Cuban authorities said Monday.

Cuba announced the foreign investment participation in the country's wholesale and retail trade to guarantee the stable supply of products in deficit at the network of stores available to the population.

Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez Parrilla thanked today the international solidarity in the midst of adversity, in contrast to the hostile U.S. policy, spearheaded by the economic, commercial and financial blockade designed to suffocate the Island.

Cuba began the evaluation of the damages after the fire of significant proportions occurred at the Supertanker Base in the city of Matanzas.