Havana - Five women who have made significant contributions to the Federation of Cuban Women (FMC) received the Mariana Grajales Order just a few days before the organization celebrates its 59th anniversary.

During the awards ceremony attended by the Second Secretary of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Cuba, Jose Ramon Machado Ventura, 20 other outstanding women in the political, economic and social life of the country received the Ana Betancourt Order, national television reported.

Both distinctions are conferred by the Cuban Council of State at the proposal of the FMC National Secretariat.

Speaking to the press, the awarded women highlighted the commitment such recognitions represent, while expressing their confidence in the new generations to continue their efforts.

Founded on August 23, 1960, the FMC fights for gender equality and women's empowerment in Cuba. It currently brings together more than four million members.