The Federation of Cuban Women (FMC) called its members to attend en masse the parades in the country on Saturday, on the occasion of the International Workers' Day.

In a press release published by the national media, the FMC exhorted women to march together with the people, as an expression of support to the 1959 Revolution.

"We have many reasons to prove the strength and firmness of millions of Cuban women that are willing to devote themselves entirely to the country's Revolution, freedom, independence, sovereignty, and the future we want and will make come true," the text said.

Special assemblies are being held in several workplaces, to finalize details of the May Day parades in the island's squares, streets and public spaces.

The Cuban Central Workers' Union (CTC) exhorted people this week to attend May Day activities in rejection of the harassment by large powers and to support the economic transformations in progress in the nation.

The parade will be an event to support the Revolution and the current changes in the Cuban economic model to guarantee the continuity of socialism and preservation of the national independence and sovereignty.

Juan Formell, director and bassist of Los Van Van, the most popular Cuban salsa band, received the 70th CTC Foundation Anniversary hallmark in a cultural gala on Thursday night.