Cuba s Office of Religious Affairs representative addresses IRLA World Congress delegation

April 24, 2012 – Punta Cana, Dominican Republic…Libna Stevens/IAD

Sonia Garcia, assistant director of the Office of Religious Affairs in Cuba, addressed more than 800 delegates at the 7th IRLA Religious World Congress tin Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, on Apr. 24, 2012.

Garcia was among several officials who spoke to the audience about the current religious liberties enjoyed in their country and the challenges to further protect religious rights.

“In Cuba,” Garcia said, “the state recognizes, respects and guarantees religious liberty, such as the freedom to change beliefs or not have any, and to profess their religion within the law.”

In her speech, Garcia read a statement citing legal documents on amendments to the constitution since 1976 and after, and the religious transition the island has experienced since its colonial era in the 1490s.

She challenged religious liberty leaders and attendees to unite in the search for peace and mutual respect.

“Religions which are defenders of moral and ethical principles today, more than ever, have a great challenge to secure a better world, where respect to diversity can strengthen unity, love and the development of peoples,” said Garcia.

The 7th IRLA World Congress is scheduled to continue through April 26, 2012.

For more news, information and view photos of the event, go to www.irla.org