In commemorating 20 years of diplomatic relations with Pacific Islands, Cuba reaffirmed its unwavering support and commitment to the region.
A program held at the Embassy of Cuba this morning in Suva, recognised Cuba’s collaboration with Pacific island nations including Fiji. The event was officiated by the Permanent Secretary for the Office of the Prime Minister and Foreign Affairs, Mr. Yogesh Karan.
Mr. Karan on behalf of Prime Minister Josaia Voreqe Bainimarama congratulated and acknowledged the Government of Cuba for commemorating this momentous occasion which recognises Cuba’s exemplary partnership with the Pacific in advancing multilateralism and sustainable development.
He said the high-level exchanges between our two countries were undertaken during a State visit by Prime Minister Bainimarama to Havana in 2019 and since then collaborations have continued to strengthen in mutual interests.
He extended the Fijian Government’s appreciation to Cuba for ongoing cooperation in building resilient health systems, through provision of medical scholarships to medical students in Fiji and the region.
“Many of these graduates have returned to contribute to the development of their countries. This on-going initiative has allowed us to meet the shortage of doctors in the region and has become even more critical as we work to manage the COVID-19 pandemic. As Island nations, we share similar challenges, so together, we can cooperate for the benefit of our people.
“As we celebrate 20 years of cooperation between Cuba and the Pacific Islands, may our nations continue to grow closer and expand our cooperation and friendship. We should take the opportunity and overcome shared challenges, to bring our strategic partnership to a new height,” Mr. Karan said.
In his remarks, Ambassador of the Republic of Cuba to Fiji, His Excellency José Manuel Galego Montano said, “We reaffirm our commitment to sharing our experiences and support the Small Island States of the Pacific in that they can always rely on Cuba as their sister nation.
“Cuba and small island developing states share common visions and challenges with regards to the major items on the international agenda, with a greater focus on environmental issues.
"These challenges can only be tackled through solidarity and cooperation among our countries, on the basis of mutual respect, selfless help and complementarity. Cuba reiterates its unconditional commitment to furthering the strengthening of its links with the Pacific region and its nations.
“We celebrated the 204 graduation of young Pacific Islanders as doctors in Cuba. Within a few years, more than two hundred specialists from these Islands, will graduate in Cuba and will be qualified to practice and effectively contribute to improve health indicators, giving follow up in some cases to cooperation actions initiated by the Cuban medical brigades.”