Dr Gonsalves discusses Cuban Medical Programme with US officials

Prime Minister, Dr Ralph Gonsalves has presented all information related to the Cuban Medical Mission in St Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG)to United States officials.

Speaking on WEFM’s Issue at Hand programme on Sunday, March 23,2025, Gonsalves indicated that on Wednesday,March 19, he met with a United States delegation at Cabinet Room to discuss the Cuban Medical Technical Mission.

The Prime Minister noted that during the discussions, the delegation expressed surprise at several aspects of the programme, including the fact that Cuban workers receive their salaries directly through bank accounts, and are issued bank cards.

He also said that there are some Cubans who are working in SVG outside of government programmes, including six individuals currently employed in the education sector.

Cuban professionals under government contracts serve three-year terms, with 30 days of annual leave. If they choose to return to Cuba during this period, the government of SVG covers their round-trip airfare and any other additional expenses they might incur en route.

The Prime Minister noted that all questions from the U.S. delegation were answered with full transparency, with the relevant permanent secretaries present to provide clarity.

He added that St. Vincent and the Grenadines maintains progressive labour laws and fully subscribes to international labour conventions, ensuring fair and just treatment for all workers.

The United States administration recently threatened to restrict visas for officials in the Caribbean whose governments are engaged in the Cuban Medical programme, which Secretary of State, Marco Rubio has called “forced labour”.

Caribbean Governments have responded to Washington, noting that the programme is voluntary and transparent, and is an important component of the health services in these countries as the Cubans provide life-saving treatment and expertise.

There are just over 80 Cuban medical specialists working in the public health care system in SVG.

Prime Minister Gonsavles told reporters during a recent trip to Jamaica that Cuban medical personnel are providing critical care to patients, including 60 who receive dialysis. Overall, Cuba has some 24,130 doctors working in 56 nations.(API)