Matanzas - Yesterday July 6, Army General Raúl Castro Ruz, President of the Councils of State and Ministers sent a message of congratulations to National Prize for Literature winner Carilda Oliver Labra, read during a ceremony which took place on her 95th birthday.

Miguel Barnet, president of the Union of Cuban Writers and Artists (UNEAC) read Raúl's message to Carilda, which noted that her impressive body of work and commitment to the homeland had won her the people's admiration and affection.

The letter continued, "I could not fail to reiterate, on a date as significant as your 95th birthday, that your unforgettable “Canto a Fidel” which you wrote 30 years ago, beyond a demonstration of courage, is also one of your proven loyalty to our Revolution and its historic leader."

Minister of Culture Abel Prieto presented the honoree a bouquet of roses in Raúl's name.

Reading the Council of State resolution, awarding the Matanzas poet the Félix Varela Order, was María Elena Salgado, deputy minister of Culture, who emphasized Carilda's vast work, describing her as one of the most prominent poets in Cuban culture.

Also attending the event were Teresa Rojas Monzón, first secretary of the Party in the province, and Tania León Silveira, president of the Matanzas Provincial Assembly of People's Power.

Inspired by the recognitions, Carilda expressed her gratitude and delight that the award was presented on her birthday, adding that she didn't feel like a 95-year-old woman. With her customary wit and a smile, she commented that perhaps everyone had made a mistake.