CUBAN President Miguel Diaz Canel described the nation’s new family code as a “bet for life and growth as a society,” paving the way for same-sex marriage. 

The code was approved by parliamentarians in the National Assembly on Friday and will be put to the public in a vote, which Mr Diaz Canel said was “unprecedented.”

The new code would legalise same-sex marriage and civil unions, allow same-sex couples to adopt children and promote equal sharing of domestic responsibilities.

Mr Diaz Canel said it does not aim to build a certain type of family, “but promotes respect for the rights of all people, as reflected in the Constitution.”

While its adoption has met resistance from the Catholic Church, polls suggest a majority of Cubans support the legislation. 

“This code becomes a bedside book for educators, especially primary school teachers who accompany the formation of children, men and women of tomorrow. It is a code of love and peace, and the people should say yes to it,” he said. 

The Cuban leader said the code, which was consulted on with the participation of millions of Cubans, is “a worthy tribute to Vilma Espan, tireless fighter for social justice and human improvement.”

It will be put to a nationwide referendum on September 25. 

Cuba’s head of state said that many people across the world admire the revolution, its resistance and the achievements that have been made since throwing off the yoke of imperialism. 

The socialist island will celebrate the 69th anniversary of the storming of the Moncada Barracks tomorrow, seen as a turning point in the revolution led by Fidel Castro and Che Guevara. 

“We hope that everyone will join us to fight until victory always,” he said.